08.03.2026 16:52
The Tophane Fountain, which has a historical heritage of approximately 300 years in Istanbul and is the third largest fountain in the megacity, was set on fire by an unidentified person or persons. An investigation has been initiated regarding the incident.
The Tophane Fountain, built during the reign of Mahmud I in 1732 and known as one of the elegant square fountains of Ottoman architecture, has been one of Istanbul's most important symbols for nearly three centuries. Located in Tophane Square, it was observed that the third largest fountain in Istanbul was damaged, particularly in the spout area of its marble surface, due to the fire that was set.
AN INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN INITIATED INTO THE HISTORICAL DISRESPECT
The damage to the historical artifact drew reactions from those nearby, and an investigation was initiated to determine who carried out the incident. Meanwhile, it was learned that teams would work to clean the soot and grime from the fountain.
"A FOUNTAIN THAT REALLY DRAWS ATTENTION"
Taxi driver Veysi Astam expressed that the current condition of the fountain is poor, stating, "We generally work here as taxi drivers, we work in this area. It is truly an attention-grabbing fountain, one that has been around for a long time. Quite beautiful, it is a fountain that attracts the attention of tourists as well. It is likely that homeless people set the fire due to the cold. It would be great if the authorities clean it. Right now, it looks bad as you can see. A fire has been set, and it is currently waiting in ashes," he said.