Eyüpsultan, located on Istanbul’s European side, is a historically and culturally significant district. The district of Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Sarıyer was founded in 1936 and covers 242 square kilometers. According to the 2021 census, it now has 29 separate neighborhoods with a population of 417,360. Although the shoreline of the Golden Horn is short, it has a significant stretch along the Black Sea between the villages of Akpınar and Çiftalan.

Eyüpsultan’s territorial boundaries have changed throughout time. The district, which formerly included present-day Sultangazi (excluding Eskihabipler Neighborhood) as well as the districts of Gaziosmanpaşa and Bayrampaşa, took on its current form in 2009, when the Yayla neighborhood was relocated to Sultangazi. Today, it shares boundaries with Sarıyer to the east, Kağıthane and Beyoğlu to the southeast, Gaziosmanpaşa and Bayrampaşa to the southwest, Zeytinburnu and Fatih to the south, Arnavutköy and Sultangazi to the west, and Başakşehir to the southwest.

Eyüpsultan derives its name from Ebu Eyyub el-Ensari, a respected companion of the Prophet Muhammad whose tomb is located within its grounds. This sacred spot has been a focal point of Islamic respect since the Ottoman takeover of Istanbul in 1453, establishing Eyüpsultan the first Turkish village beyond the city’s old fortifications.

The region is rich in Ottoman-era landmarks, the most notable of which is the Eyüp Sultan mosque. This grand structure, flanked by medieval courtyards and prayer rooms, is a popular pilgrimage destination, attracting tourists from all over the Islamic world. The mosque exudes tranquillity, which is heightened by the beautiful calligraphy and architectural grandeur that cover the walls.

Beyond its spiritual value, Eyüpsultan preserves Ottoman cultural and architectural history. The Mihrişah Valide Sultan Soup Kitchen, built in 1795 by Sultan Selim III’s mother, upholds a centuries-old tradition of feeding the poor. Meanwhile, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque Grand Bath, which was originally erected after the conquest of Istanbul and then renovated by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan, is being restored. Plans are underway to convert this historic bathhouse into the “Water Civilization Museum,” a tribute to Istanbul’s hydraulic brilliance.

The district’s cemeteries contribute to its rich historical tapestry. The Eyüpsultan Cemetery, which stretches along the slopes overlooking the Golden Horn, is the final resting place for notable Ottoman soldiers, statesmen, scholars, and artists. Contrary to popular belief, the location contains the graves of not one, but seven companions of the Prophet Muhammad, demonstrating its profound Islamic past.

While history pervades every aspect of Eyüpsultan, the area nevertheless values modern urbanization. Alibeyköy, originally known as Köpekyaylası, has become a major residential and business area. Infrastructure improvements and urban redevelopment programs continue to change the district, ensuring that its historic character blends with modern development.

On October 19, 2017, the district officially changed its name from Eyüp to Eyüpsultan in compliance with Article 36 of Law No. 7039 on Amendments to the Population Services Law and Certain Laws. This move symbolizes the district’s deep regard and veneration for its namesake, Ebu Eyyub el-Ensari, and strengthens its distinct character in Istanbul’s dynamic terrain.

History of Eyüp

Byzantine Foundations and Early Significance

Modern-day Eyüp dates back to the Byzantine period, when it was known as Kosmidion, after the Monastery of the Anargyroi, which was dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian. The monastery, founded in the fifth century, rose to prominence as a spiritual center. A later legend attributes its origins to the magister Paulinus, who was allegedly executed by Emperor Theodosius II over suspicions of having an affair with Empress Aelia Eudocia. However, historical records indicate that it was most likely founded around 480 by Paulina, the mother of the general and failed usurper Leontius. Initially known as “ta Paoulines,” the quarter became Kosmidion by the tenth century.

Kosmidion had strategic and theological significance during the Byzantine period. In the sixth century, its abbots participated in key church synods, and Emperor Justinian I commissioned extensive restorations. However, its prominence made it a target for invasions, with the Avars besieging and looting the area in 623 and 626. By the eleventh century, Kosmidion was a well-established neighborhood with imperial links. In 924, Emperor Romanos I Lekapenos met Bulgarian Tsar Simeon here during the Byzantine-Bulgarian War, and thereafter, it functioned as a base for numerous military and political actions.

Role in Medieval Conflicts and Crusades

The monastery remained an imperial retreat and a hotbed of political intrigue throughout the Middle Ages. Emperor Michael IV restored the complex before retiring there after his abdication, and Kosmidion played a role in subsequent Byzantine civil wars. The First Crusade encamped nearby in 1096, commemorating its presence in a difficult era. During the Fourth Crusade, it experienced fighting between Crusaders and Byzantines in 1203, ultimately succumbing to Latin forces in 1204. Despite this, the monastery lasted and even welcomed Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos before his triumphant return into Constantinople in 1261.

In the succeeding decades, Kosmidion functioned as a place of exile for ousted patriarchs and contained a growing collection of miracle accounts attributed to its patron saints. In 1303, Spanish soldiers strengthened the monastery to launch raids on the Genoese settlement in Galata, but by 1305, the Byzantines withdrew it. Further confrontations continued in the fourteenth century, with the Genoese capturing and burning Byzantine ships in the Golden Horn. Despite these upheavals, the monastery remained a significant religious site, with references to other churches and chapels in the vicinity.

Ottoman Conquest and Transformation

In 1410, Kosmidion was the battleground for the Ottoman Interregnum, where Musa Çelebi and Süleyman Çelebi fought for the throne, with the latter emerging victorious. After the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453, the area was renamed Eyüp in honor of Prophet Muhammad’s companion Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, who died during the First Arab Siege of Constantinople in the late seventh century. By 1581, Christians were barred from staying in the area, which had become a sacred spot for Muslims.

Eyüp soon became a well-known burial place due to its location beyond the city’s main defenses. Today, it has both Christian and Muslim cemeteries, reflecting its complex religious history. The Eyüp Sultan Mosque, erected in honor of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, became one of the Ottoman Empire’s most prominent religious sites, attracting pilgrims and dignitaries from all over the Islamic world.

Industrialization and Societal Shifts

Istanbul expanded during the seventeenth and eighteenth century, while Ottoman provinces were in upheaval. Refugees from the Balkans and the Caucasus sought safety in the city, and Eyüp grew into a heavily populated community. This influx caused a transition from its previous spiritual aura to a more industrialized landscape. Along the Golden Horn, factories formed, most notably the Feshane, which produced fezzes for the Ottoman military. Today, the Feshane serves as an exhibition center for Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

As industry thrived, trade in Eyüp also expanded. Markets selling fish, dairy, and household items lined the streets behind the mosque, while the mosque’s courtyard became a magnet for religious merchants offering texts and prayer beads. However, by the mid-twentieth century, the area’s socio-economic situation evolved significantly. Affluent inhabitants flocked to the Bosphorus or Istanbul’s Asian side, as pollution from industrial expansion make the Golden Horn less desirable.

Eyüp in the Contemporary Era

In the late twentieth and early twenty-first century, Eyüp underwent considerable environmental and urban redevelopment activities. Many factories were shuttered or repurposed, restoring the waterfront’s visual and recreational attractiveness. Today, the region continues to attract visitors, notably conservative Muslim families drawn to its rich religious history.

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is a popular pilgrimage site, particularly on Fridays and during Ramadan. Religious traditions including pre-wedding blessings and circumcision festivities are common here. The neighboring market is thriving, selling Islamic books, prayer mats, fragrant oils, and traditional sweets. On Fridays, the air is filled with Ottoman military music, known as mehter, which creates an atmosphere that combines profound devotion with joyful vitality. Ramadan evenings bring massive community iftars in tents set up surrounding the mosque, emphasizing the district’s spiritual and communal importance.

Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University now occupies a historic structure in Eyüp, demonstrating the area’s commitment to educational growth. The district’s cultural amenities also include the famed Pierre Loti Café, which is accessible via a picturesque gondola ride. The café, named after the French novelist Pierre Loti, who romanticized Istanbul in his literary works, offers tourists stunning views of the Golden Horn, linking the past and present in an ever-changing urban landscape.

The 29 Neighbourhoods of Eyüp Sultan District

Eyüp Sultan, one of Istanbul’s most historically significant districts, includes a wide range of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character, cultural history, and architectural landscape. These neighborhoods, which range from bustling metropolitan centers to peaceful villages on the city’s outskirts, all contribute to the dynamic fabric of this famous district.

• Levent: Levent, located on the outskirts of Eyüp Sultan, is a contemporary and well-developed suburb that combines commercial areas with residential zones. While typically linked with the surrounding Beşiktaş financial district, Eyüp Sultan’s Levent retains a quieter but equally prominent presence, with well-planned infrastructure and easy access to major transportation links.
• Ağaçlı: Ağaçlı is a rural community that stands out from Istanbul’s urban atmosphere. With wide green fields and ancient farming traditions still in effect, the neighborhood provides a pleasant getaway for people looking for a slower pace of life.
• Akpınar: Akpınar is a compact settlement with a strong communal spirit, recognized for its traditional dwellings and close-knit society. It is still a lesser-known yet charming area of the neighborhood, with residents enjoying a peaceful environment amidst Istanbul’s larger metropolitan bustle.
• Akşemsettin: Named after Akşemsettin, Sultan Mehmed II’s spiritual counselor, this neighbourhood is rich in history. Narrow streets wind past historic mosques and modest residences, preserving an old-world charm that contrasts with the city’s quickly modernizing sections.
• Alibeyköy: Alibeyköy is one of Eyüp Sultan’s most dynamic sections, serving as a significant residential and business area. It has experienced major renovation in recent years, although it still has relics of its industrial past, such as factories and workshops that formerly characterized the landscape.
• Çiftalan: The village-like enclave of Çiftalan, surrounded by forests and natural sceneries, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Its bucolic ambiance and classic buildings provide a respite from the hectic urban existence.
• Çırçır: Çırçır is a popular residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a mix of ancient and contemporary home constructions. The proximity to vital transportation links makes it an appealing location for commuters looking for a blend of convenience and serenity.
• Defterdar: Home to historical landmarks, Defterdar has a deep connection to Ottoman history. Mosques, fountains, and other architectural landmarks line its streets, while local markets and cafes preserve its traditions.
• Düğmeciler: Düğmeciler is a vibrant urban neighborhood with a mix of commercial and residential properties. Its marketplaces and small enterprises add to the district’s thriving economy, while cultural assets enhance its historical significance.
• Emniyettepe: This growing neighborhood offers a mix of modern apartments and historic homes, catering to a wide range of demographics. Schools, parks, and shopping facilities guarantee that inhabitants have a great quality of life.
• Esentepe: A residential neighborhood with a growing population, Esentepe has become a popular destination due to its convenience and attractions. Parks, schools, and local markets provide a pleasant setting for both families and young professionals.
• Eyüp Merkez: As the district’s hub, Eyüp Merkez is a pilgrimage place for many travelers since it houses the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of Turkey’s most important religious structures. Its bustling streets, ancient sites, and traditional marketplaces make it a hub for both spiritual and commercial activity.
• Göktürk Merkez: Göktürk Merkez is one of the most affluent neighborhoods of Eyüp Sultan, known for its expensive homes, modern infrastructure, and green spaces. Its strategic location near the Belgrade Forest offers a refreshing contrast to Istanbul’s congested metropolitan scene.
• Güzeltepe: A neighborhood that lives up to its name, which translates as “beautiful hill,” Güzeltepe provides breathtaking views of the city. The neighborhood is mostly residential, with a focus on communal living and a casual attitude.
• İhsaniye: İhsaniye is surrounded by nature and has been relatively unaffected by Istanbul’s growing urbanization. Its small population prefers a rural lifestyle, with a focus on agriculture and outdoor activities.
• Işıklar:Işıklar is a peaceful, family-oriented neighborhood with a strong sense of community. It is recognized for its quiet streets, well-kept homes, and proximity to important facilities.
• İslambey: İslambey, a historically rich neighborhood, portrays classic Istanbul with its Ottoman-era buildings and community-centric culture. The neighborhood preserves its vintage appeal, attracting both visitors and locals.
• Karadolap: Karadolap is a rising residential area that has undergone major development in recent years. Its strategic location makes it an appealing alternative for people looking for affordable homes with easy access.
• Mimar Sinan: Named after the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, this neighborhood honors its namesake with well-preserved historic structures and a commitment to architectural excellence.
• Mithatpaşa: A relatively small neighbourhood, Mithatpaşa offers a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Local markets and cafes contribute to its lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Nişanca: A culturally rich neighbourhood, Nişanca is home to many historical sites and vibrant social spaces. Its diverse population adds to its dynamic spirit.
• Odayeri: Located near the outskirts of the district, Odayeri is surrounded by lush landscapes and serves as a rural escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Pirinççi: With its agricultural roots, Pirinççi remains one of the last remaining areas in Istanbul where traditional farming practices persist.
• Rami Cuma & Rami Yeni: These twin neighbourhoods share a common history, with the famous Rami Barracks being a notable landmark. The area has undergone urban renewal while preserving its historical essence.
• Sakarya: A growing residential area that provides modern living spaces while keeping a sense of community.
• Silahtarağa: Silahtarağa has a rich industrial past, including the famous SantralIstanbul, a former power plant turned cultural and educational center.
• Topçular: Topçular, once known for its military significance, has evolved into a flourishing residential and business center.
• Yeşilpınar: Yeşilpınar is a vibrant and diversified neighborhood with parks, schools, and community-driven projects, making it an attractive area to live.

Historical Buildings of Istanbul: A Journey Through Time

Eyüp Sultan Mosque and the Tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most cherished religious and historical buildings, with strong ties to the city’s Islamic legacy. Eyüp is named after Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, the Prophet Muhammad’s close associate and standard-bearer. According to legend, Abu Ayyub al-Ansari arrived in the area with the Arab army during the first siege of Constantinople in the seventh century and died there. His ultimate wish was to be buried at the location, making it hallowed even during the Byzantine period.

However, the tomb fell into disrepair after the Fourth Crusade, which destroyed most of the city’s sacred architecture. Seven centuries later, following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Sultan Mehmed II’s mentor, Sheikh Akşemseddin, located the burial site. Recognizing the significance, Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror ordered the construction of a mausoleum and mosque in honor of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari. This marked the construction of Istanbul’s first major mosque since its conquest.

A typical complex around the mosque, including a bathhouse, schoolrooms, and a canteen, highlighting the site’s importance as a religious and educational hub. One of the mosque’s most remarkable artifacts is a stone said to have the Prophet Muhammad’s footprint, adding to its sacredness. Over time, other Ottoman sultans and nobles sought to be buried near Abu Ayyub al-Ansari’s grave, cementing Eyüp’s status as a prominent hub of Islamic devotion.

During the Ottoman Empire’s peak, Eyüpsultan, along with Üsküdar and Galata, was one of three major communities outside the city walls. The district’s spectacular views and quiet atmosphere drew both Turkish and international visitors. Count Preziosi’s 19th-century oil paintings, many of which depict the mosque and its surrounds in rich detail, convey the fascination of its spiritual ambiance and historical architecture.

Karyağdı Ali Baba Lodge

The Karyağdı Ali Baba Lodge, located between old graves and Pierre Loti facilities, is an important part of Istanbul’s Sufi tradition. This Bektashi lodge, built in the late 18th century, served as a meeting place for Ottoman intellectuals and Janissaries. However, with the breakup of the Janissary Corps and the prohibition of Bektashism in 1828 by Sultan Mahmud II, the lodge was temporarily closed.

Despite its closure, the lodge was later reopened, retaining its significance in the Bektashi tradition. One of its most renowned figures was Mehmed Necib Baba, who died in Bursa in 1879. Historians Nicolas Vatin and Thierry Zarcone discovered that Necib Baba established a printing press within the lodge, which was a rare and pioneering activity at the time. One surviving publication from 1874-1875, Risale-i la’ihat-i cami, contains Sufi poetry and was printed with official clearance from the Ministry of National Education.

Graves of notable Bektashi order members surround the lodge. The oldest tombstone belongs to es-Seyyid Muhammed Ali, who was chosen to run the lodge in 1779. This site is an enduring witness to Istanbul’s spiritual and intellectual vigor in the past.

Feshane: From Textile Factory to Cultural Hub

Feshane, founded by Sultan Mahmud II to furnish fezzes to the Ottoman troops, played an important part in the empire’s textile economy. It grew over time into a large industrial center, manufacturing a variety of clothing and fabrics for Ottoman civilization.

Following an intensive restoration effort that began in 2018, Feshane has been reincarnated as Artistanbul Feshane, a modern culture and arts center. This historic facility, which officially reopened on June 22, 2023, is now a dynamic site for exhibitions, performances, and artistic collaborations, conserving its industrial past while embracing current cultural manifestations.

Pierre Loti Hill: A Poetic Retreat

This hilltop hideaway, named for the well-known French novelist Pierre Loti, has one of Istanbul’s most magnificent panoramic views. Loti, a huge fan of Turkish culture, lived in Eyüpsultan for a while and frequently wrote about it, depicting it as a haven of magic and nostalgia.

Despite its relationship with Pierre Loti, the site has sparked criticism. In 2007, then-Mayor Ahmet Genç questioned the hill’s name, claiming that there was no historical precedence for calling it Pierre Loti Hill. Nonetheless, the term lives on, representing the rich cultural contacts between Istanbul and Western literary personalities.

Surp Asdvadzadzin Apostolic Armenian Church

The Surp Asdvadzadzin Apostolic Armenian Church, which was originally made of wood in 1812, was renovated in 1855 and is now in its current shape. Geographer Gugios İnciciyan chronicled the church’s partial demolition, while religious services continued in the remaining edifice. Today, the cathedral serves as a painful reminder of Istanbul’s Armenian legacy, safeguarding the community’s religion and traditions.

Surp Yeghia Armenian Apostolic Church

Surp Yeghia Armenian Apostolic Church, first described by Inciciyan in his work Istanbul in the 18th Century, once existed in Serviler Mahallesi, later called Yukarı Mahalle. The old construction, which dates back to the 18th century, was dismantled in 1766 and rebuilt in 1800 by imperial mandate. The church, which underwent another significant remodeling in 1832, is a historical landmark that represents the Armenian community’s long-standing presence in Istanbul.

Silahtarağa Power Plant: The Birth of Industrial Energy

The Silahtarağa Power Plant, built in 1914 during the late Ottoman Empire, provided electricity to Istanbul for about 70 years. This coal-fired facility remained operational until 1983, when the city entered the contemporary industrial period.

Today, the location is home to Istanbul Bilgi University’s Santralistanbul Energy Museum. The museum provides a unique look at the city’s industrial history, with displays on energy production, manufacturing, and technological advancement. Santralistanbul, a blend of tradition and education, represents Istanbul’s journey of innovation and modernization.