Galata Tower
Istanbul

8x10” · Watercolor & Ink on Cotton Rag

This street-view sketch highlights the Galata Tower rising above the streets of Istanbul, a medieval landmark with both historical and architectural significance. Built in the 14th century by the Genoese colony in Constantinople, the tower served as a watchtower and fortification, overseeing the busy harbor and guarding the entrance to the Golden Horn. Its cylindrical stone structure, narrow windows, and conical roof were designed for defense, offering a vantage point to monitor incoming ships and potential threats.

Through this watercolor and ink rendering, I aimed to capture both the tower’s commanding presence and its integration into the lively urban streetscape. The sketch reflects the link between its original purpose as a fortification, its architectural elegance, and its role today as a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history