Taksim & İstiklal neighbourhood
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İstiklal - by Abed Hassoun on Google
Description
Taksim Square and the area around it is Istanbul's main commercial and entertainment area. The square was inaugurated in 1928 to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Turkey. Highlights include the 11m high Republic Monument designed by Pietro Canonica with the bronze sculptures of the founders of the Turkish Republic, Gezi Park, the recently completed Taksim Square Mosque, and the Atatürk Cultural Center. İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) is a 1.4km long pedestrian street with an iconic tram line that branches off from the square, heading towards Galata Tower. It was historically known as the Grand Avenue of Pera and is lined up with cafés, nightclubs, fashion boutiques, etc. Buildings are designed in various late 19/early 20th century styles such as Art Nouveau or Neo-Classical. Highlights include the covered Çiçek Pasajı ("Flower Passage") and several Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches.
Access & Transport
The square and street are in the Beyoğlu district, in the European part of the city. The Taksim Metro station is serviced by the M2 line and the Kabataş-Taksim Funicular (F1) line. It is also a major bus interchange. İstiklal Caddesi is serviced by the T2 tram line.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining an exploration of this neighbourhood with a visit of the Pera Museum and the Galata Tower.
Environmental & Social
Urban environment with hardly any green spaces. The flow of cash rich tourists has had a negative impact on the mindset and practice of many individuals working there
Conclusion
Architecturally, Taksim has little to recommend it but İstiklal has many interesting buildings. If you are keen on shopping and don't mind busy streets, then definitely head there. If that is not the case, we still suggest you walk part of it but either earlier in the morning when the stores just open or briefly for a coffee and buy a sinful pastry.
Key positive
Good place for shopping
Easy to get to by public transport
Key negative
Taksim Square is prone to scams
Crowded neighbourhood
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo