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I decided to make my way up to the northernmost points of the Asian side of the Bosporus in Istanbul. Anadolu Kavağı and Anadolu Feneri are two fishing villages, one frequently on the tourist path, the other not. This entry is about Anadolu Feneri.
I had tried several times before with Isaac, but we were always thwarted by some outside force – weather, missed ferries, late buses. Now that Isaac had moved back to the US, I had to go it alone.
Anadolu Feneri
Once I finished exploring Anadolu Kavağı, I jumped on the next bus back to Beykoz to transfer to Anadolu Feneri, known as Panthikion (Πανθήκιον) during Byzantine times. Buses aren’t very frequent, so I relaxed near the sea with a çay (tea) and karışık tost (mixed toast) before sitting at the bus stop. What was supposed to be a five minute wait turned into 30, so I guess I should’ve relaxed more.
I almost gave up until I saw the 15D bus barreling down the road. I jumped on and another half hour later, I found myself in an eerily quiet village at the top of a cliff. Not a soul was around and no businesses or restaurants were open.
Lighthouse
First, I walked to the lighthouse that guides ships from the Black Sea into the Bosporus and gives the village its name. It was opened in 1856 and was under French control until 1933. A lighthouse had existed there for at least 100 years before the current one was built. Next door is a small mosque with some beautiful views. It was built in 1800.
The Views
I wandered around the village a bit and tried to get some of the best views possible of the Bosporus, the European side, and the Black Sea. I think I climbed through military and private property at times, so it wasn’t the best idea. On a positive note, I did manage to get some nice shots.
One of the most interesting shots is of Rumeli Feneri on the European side of the Bosporus. I was able to capture a Turkish submarine entering the straits.
Conclusion
Anadolu Feneri has absolutely no reason for any tourists to visit. However, if you’re looking for solitude and fresh air, and don’t mind waiting a long time for a return bus, go for it.
