Taksim Square
Located in the heart of European part of Istanbul, Taksim Square is probably the most important square in Turkey. The word “taksim” means “division” in Arabic. In 1732 Sultan Mahmud I ordered the creation of a stone reservoir to collect the water coming from the Belgrade Forest and Taksim was the point where the main water lines from the north of Istanbul were collected and branched off to other parts of the city.
Today, Taksim Square is a major shopping district and home to fast food chains such as Pizza Hut, McDonalds and Burger King. Istiklal Caddesi or “Independence Avenue” ends at Taksim and offers a nostalgic tram that runs from the square along the avenue. In 2006, a new funicular line connecting the Taksim Metro station with the Kabatas tramway station was opened, allowing riders to ascend to Taksim in just 110 seconds. Here are located some of the city’ grandest hotels such as the InterContinental, the Ritz-Carlton and The Marmara Hotel. As a main transportation hub and with numerous hotels and restaurants, it’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
