“An obelisk” is what Dikilitaş means in Turkish. Are you ready to explore Dikilitaş Mahallesi in Istanbul? This neighborhood holds a secret. It is a story etched in stone.
Dikilitaş Mahallesi is a vibrant neighborhood. It is located in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş district. The neighborhood sits between Balmumcu and Fulya. Gayrettepe borders it to the north. Balmumcu and Yıldız lie to the east. Abbasağa and Türkali are to the south. And Şişli’s Teşvikiye neighborhoods border it to the west.
Barbaros Boulevard marks its eastern edge. Hakkı Yeten Caddesi defines its western boundary. Dikilitaş covers an area of 0.64 square kilometers. In 2023, the population was 15,149.
But what makes Dikilitaş Mahallesi special? It is the obelisk itself of course. An explanatory plaque stands beside it. It tells a tale of skill and remembrance.
The plaque reveals that Sultan Mahmud II erected this stone in 1810. This was to commemorate a remarkable feat. During a competition, the Sultan hit a target. He used a “şeşhane” rifle. The target was a ostrich egg. It was placed one thousand one hundred fifty-five steps away. This incredible shot was immortalized with the stone. Enderunlu Vasıf penned the poem inscribed on the stone.
Interestingly, the northern part of Dikilitaş is also known as “Darphane”. This is because the General Directorate of the Mint and Stamp Printing Office is located here.
Dikilitaş Mahallesi is home to several mosques. The Dikilitaş Camii and the Hz. Ebubekir Camii serve the community.
Education is important here. Several schools are located in Dikilitaş. Gazi Mustafa Kemal Middle School serves the local youth. Mahmut Erseven Elementary School educates younger children. And Yıldızlar Kindergarten nurtures the youngest minds.
For older students, there are several high schools. These include Beşiktaş Anatolian Imam Hatip High School. There is also Bingül Erdem Anatolian High School. And Erhan Gedikbaşı Multiprogram Anatolian High School.
Dikilitaş is well-connected. Public transportation is readily available. The number 26 bus line runs between Dikilitaş and Eminönü.
Dikilitaş Plaza is a modern addition to the area. DAY Group built it in 2002. It provides 3200 square meters of office space. Its central location makes it a popular business hub.
From a sharpshooting Sultan to modern business. Dikilitaş blends history with contemporary life. As you wander through Dikilitaş Mahallesi remember its story. Remember the stone. Remember the shot heard far and wide.