Pierre Loti Hill / Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Pierre Loti Hill, on the banks of the Golden Horn in the historical Eyüp district of Istanbul, is a testament to the perfect blend of history and natural beauty. This famous hill, right next to the iconic Eyüp Sultan Mosque, invites enthusiasts to embrace the sunset view with its observation cafe. At the café, guests are invited to savor the rich flavors of Turkish coffee or tea, all while basking in the unparalleled vistas of the Golden Horn. As they indulge, the binoculars at the viewing terrace offer an even more intimate look at the city's tapestry. Pierre Loti Hill carries the legacy of the esteemed French novelist and traveler, Julien Viaud, better known as Pierre Loti. He once found solace and inspiration in this very location, crafting his narratives with Istanbul as his muse.

Pierre Loti By Cable Car 

The following suggestions for a fascinating journey to Pierre Loti Hill, one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, which can be reached by Eyüp Teleferik (cable car).  To go to Pierre Loti Hill by cable car, follow these simple steps:

Start at the Eyüp Sultan Mosque Area: Your journey begins at the base of Pierre Loti Hill, near the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, which is located in the Eyüp district of Istanbul. This area is easily accessible by public transport, including buses and minibuses from different parts of the city.

Locate the Eyüp Cable Car Station (Eyüp Teleferik İstasyonu): The cable car station is situated close to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Look for signs directing you to the "Eyüp Teleferik" or ask locals for directions to the cable car station.

Purchase Tickets: Tickets for the cable car can be bought at the station. As of the last update, a one-way ticket costs 20 Turkish Lira (TL). You can also use an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable transport card used for all public transport in Istanbul, which might offer a more convenient and slightly cheaper option.

Board the Cable Car: Once you have your ticket or Istanbulkart ready, proceed to the cable car. The ride from the Eyüp station to the Pierre Loti Café at the top offers a short but scenic journey over the historical district, providing splendid views of the Golden Horn and the surrounding area.

Enjoy the View at Pierre Loti Hill: After disembarking from the cable car at the top, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Café, named after the French novelist who adored Istanbul. The café is a perfect spot to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Return Journey: For your return, you can take the cable car back down to the Eyüp station. The cable cars run frequently throughout the day, making it convenient to return whenever you're ready.

Discover the allure of Istanbul from the captivating heights of Pierre Loti Hill at the iconic Pierre Loti Café and Aziyade Restaurant. A treasure nestled amidst the city's historic fabric, this dining destination is not just a feast for the palate but a sanctuary for the soul, offering panoramic vistas of the Golden Horn that have inspired many, including the renowned French novelist Pierre Loti himself. As dawn breaks, the café welcomes you with a sumptuous Turkish tea, Aziyade restaurant welcomes with open buffet breakfast, transitioning into a culinary haven for lunch and dinner, where each dish tells a story of tradition infused with a touch of modern flair.

Whether you're planning a romantic dinner under the stars, seeking a unique location for your next big event, or simply in pursuit of Istanbul's best coffee and tea, Pierre Loti Café and Aziyade Restaurant stands ready to exceed your expectations. With its meticulously designed spaces, including a charming balcony and an expansive terrace, it promises moments that will be etched in your memory forever. Open from early morning till the stroke of midnight, this venue caters to your every need, offering a diverse menu that complements the stunning backdrop of Istanbul.

Step into a world where history meets luxury, and cuisine meets culture, at Pierre Loti Café and Aziyade Restaurant. Here, every visit becomes a journey through Istanbul's enchanting landscapes, with flavors that captivate and views that mesmerize. Join us on this culinary adventure, where the spirit of Pierre Loti's Istanbul is alive and waiting to be rediscovered by you

Golden Horn: Istanbul's Lustrous Bend

The Golden Horn remains one of Istanbul's crowning attractions. Yet, its true beauty unfurls from the heights of Pierre Loti Hill. The journey to the hill, especially when approached from Gaziosmanpaşa, is a revelation in itself. Photographers and enthusiasts alike contend that this is the pinnacle spot for capturing the city's essence. And for those seeking more than just a view, the hill offers boutique hotels and dining experiences, including the renowned restaurant, Azade. However, a word to the uninitiated: the hill and its descent to the Golden Horn are adorned with an expansive, historic cemetery. Those wary of such sites might approach with discretion.

Matching its grandeur on the European side, Pierre Loti Hill stands parallel in charm to the famous Ulus Café, offering vistas reminiscent of the Çamlıca Hill vistas against the Bosphorus on the Asian side. Both beckon with a promise of Istanbul, not just seen, but truly experienced.

Constructed in 1458, a mere five years after Istanbul's monumental conquest, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque stands as an ever-increasing focal point of attraction for visitors. The mosque's significance is amplified by the neighboring tomb of Eyüp Sultan, which predates the mosque itself. Situated in the Eyüp district along the tail end of Istanbul's Golden Horn coast, the mosque complex encapsulates a rich historical tapestry. This includes the tomb of Eyyub Al-Ansari and additional establishments such as a madrasah, soup kitchen, bathhouse, and more. While the ravages of time took their toll on the mosque, it was Sultan Selim III who initiated a comprehensive reconstruction, preserving only the minarets and foundational structures. This renewal was completed in 1798.

Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari's Legacy

Eminently recognized as Eyüp Sultan, Abu Eyyûb Halid bin Zayd or Ebu Eyyûb El-Ensari was an illustrious Companion. Notably, he was the first to host Prophet Muhammad upon his migration from Mecca to Medina, earning him the esteemed title of the prophet's host or 'mihmandar-i prophet'. In his later years, during the siege of Istanbul, he was martyred. Legend posits that he wished to be interred beneath the walls of Istanbul, a desire that Akşemsettin allegedly fulfilled through spiritual guidance. Today, a mausoleum in his honor stands in the Eyüp district, bearing both his name and the mosque's.

The Philosophy of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari

Abu Ayyub's stature was unparalleled, both in virtue and spiritual profundity. As a devout Companion mentored by the Messenger of Allah, he was fiercely committed to upholding the sunnah. Even during the Islamic army's siege on Istanbul, he quoted a hadith from the Prophet Muhammad: "A virtuous person shall find his resting place beneath the walls of Constantinople." He expressed hope to be that very individual.

Even in the heat of battle, the Islamic army, under the leadership of Yazid, accorded Abu Ayyub's coffin the highest respect. When the Byzantine commander queried this reverence, Yazid responded with the Companion's dying wish to be interred deep within Byzantine territory. Witnessing this commitment, the commander pledged to safeguard the grave. In time, a dome was erected over Abu Ayyub's final resting place, transforming it into a revered sanctuary for both Muslims and Christians. This reverence stems from a heartfelt prayer by the Prophet Muhammad himself, who once said about Abu Ayyub: "O Allah, protect Abu Ayyub as he spent the night protecting me.

Pierre Loti Hill, with its iconic observatory and café, offers a magnificent vantage point over Istanbul's stunning Golden Horn. This historically rich location was once frequented by the renowned French novelist, Pierre Loti, who saw Turkey as his adopted homeland. Here, overlooking the Golden Horn, he was inspired to pen his celebrated novel, "Aziyade".

Previously known as the "Coffe of Rabia Kadın", this spot has now been meticulously restored to reflect its quintessential "Turkish quarter" essence. The revered traveler and writer, Evliya Çelebi, has mentioned this region as the "İdris Mansion Promenade" in his travelogue. Surrounding Pierre Loti Hill are architectural gems that have captivated foreign travelers for over a century. Among them is the wooden Kasgari Lodge, which boasts two inscriptions from 1813.

As you enter the facility, a round white tombstone inscribed in Persian marks the location of the Çolak Hasan Lodge, positioned strategically at the intersection of three roads. Adjacent to this is a historical building which now serves as a Primary School. Within the same vicinity, the tomb of a Mevlevi, known as "Iskender Dede" who passed away in 1589, stands as a testament to the area's deep-rooted history. He rests near the establishment, built by İdris-i Bitlis, a notable figure in Ottoman historical writings.

One of the intriguing sites here is the renowned Wish (or Intention) Well. Evliya Çelebi's travel writings vividly describe how those who peer into this well might glimpse their deepest desires. Beyond this well, the resting places of Palace dignitary Ali Ağa and his kin can be found. Amidst these historically significant landmarks, one also discovers the "Cistern", believed to have been erected during the Byzantine era and later utilized during the Ottoman reign.

The Legacy of Pierre Loti: Pierre Loti Hill, nestled in the Eyüp district, offers a panoramic view of the Golden Horn, especially during sunset. This picturesque spot takes its name from a renowned French author. But who was Pierre Loti?

Behind the pseudonym "Pierre Loti" lies Louis Marie Julien Viaud, born on January 14, 1850, and passing away on June 10, 1923. The origins of his pen name are a subject of debate. Some believe that during his student years, Viaud adopted the name, while others argue it was a moniker bestowed upon him by Tahitian natives during his Oceania expedition in 1867. Regardless of its origin, "Loti" finds its significance in literature as a name for an exotic flower thriving in tropical climates.

Location of Pierre Loti Hill: Perched above the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, Pierre Loti Hill is situated in Istanbul's Eyüpsultan district on the European side. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to mesmerizing views spanning both sides of the Golden Horn - encompassing Beyoğlu and Fatih. Dominating the skyline of the historical peninsula are mosque domes and towering minarets. With the aid of binoculars at the observation deck, landmarks like the Fatih Mosque, Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, Beyazit Tower, Hagia Sophia Museum, and Topkapi Palace can be glimpsed in the distance.

Navigating to Pierre Loti Hill: For those with private transportation, starting at the Eyüp center and following the brown Pierre Loti direction signs is the route to go. Alternatively, bus travelers can take any bus route leading to Eyüp. Upon reaching the vicinity of the Eyüp mosque, a cable car service provides easy access to the hill, elevating visitors to the summit and its unparalleled views.