Are you a tourist in İstanbul and wondering what to do in Kadikoy? Then let me introduce you Kadıköy Bull Statue!
Kadikoy, İstanbul is not only a center of bars and nightlife but also a center of attraction for tourists. One of the most important landmarks in Kadiköy is Bull Statue. It is located in Kadiköy Square and is a central location so you can use a ferry to Karaköy and Beşiktaş. This Bull Statue is a meeting point for the locals and also it can be mentioned as “Kadiköy Boğa”. When winter becomes heavy, you can see that locals knit fabrics for it. Also, there is a frequently used saying, “Let’s meet at the bull!”
Kadikoy Bull Statue History
The story of the Kadikoy Bull Statue is pretty interesting. First, it is made for France by French sculptor Bonheur in 1864. It symbolizes the power and strength of France. The aim of sculpting a bull is for commemorating the victory of France over Germany in taking Alsace-Lorraine at the end of World War I. However, Germans took over Alsace-Lorraine again, and during WWI Ottoman Empire and Germany were allies. That’s why Germany gifted that bull statue to Ottoman Empire. Unfortunately, after WWI, the rulership of the Ottoman Empire collapsed, and government leaders fled. Then Bull Statue was located in the courtyard of the İstanbul Hilton Hotel. Today it is on Kadiköy Square. Lastly fun fact: Kadıköy Bull has the same size as an adult bull. Before passing to the European side, you should see the bull and take a photo.
Bull Statue’s Sculptor
The creator of the Bull Statue, Isidore Bonheur was a famous animal sculptor of their times. There is no doubt why the French King made them do that bull statue. Besides, they made lots of equivalents of the bull. The other bull statues are in England, Barcelona-Spain, Belgium, and USA. The sculptor, also, made little trinkets of the bull and sold them.
After the Bull Statue Trip
What can you do after you visited the Bull? Kadıköy is fruitful with restaurants and cafés serving everything from traditional Turkish cuisine to other world cuisines. Once you’ve arrived at the statue, then get lost in the hundreds of tiny streets. The area also has a variety of boutique shops selling antiques, clothing, shoes, and everything at reasonable prices.
As we mentioned before, do not leave the country before searching on Google “Bull Statue İstanbul” or “Bull Statue Kadıköy”. Last but not least, visiting Kadıköy Bull Statue is needed to be listed in “things to do in Kadıköy”. Enjoy your visit!
Boats rentals are waiting for you at Teknevia for those who want to enjoy the sea more in Istanbul.