Camondo stairs, Historic stairs in Galata district, Istanbul, Turkey.
The Camondo stairs feature a hexagonal stone design connecting Bankalar Caddesi to Banker Sokak through curved steps in Galata. They descend across multiple levels to bridge the significant slope between these two streets.
Abraham Salomon Camondo, a Sephardic banker, funded the construction in the 1870s to provide access between different sections of the banking district. This project emerged during a period of significant urban transformation in Istanbul.
The staircase reflects Neo-Baroque and early Art Nouveau styles that shaped late Ottoman Istanbul's appearance. It remains a recognizable landmark that visitors naturally notice while walking through the historic neighborhood.
The stairs sit near Karakoy Tram Station and offer pedestrians a direct route through the Galata area. The terrain is steep, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore at a leisurely pace.
The hexagonal shape incorporates safety features designed to prevent children from falling while climbing between street levels. This thoughtful construction reveals how practical safety concerns shaped 19th century architectural design.
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