Doesn’t the name Villa Pierre Loti evoke a sense of exotic adventure? The Villa Pierre Loti is named after Julien Viaud. He was a French writer known as Pierre Loti. He loved Istanbul.
Pierre Loti Hill is a popular spot next to the Eyup Sultan Mosque. Many people visit to enjoy the view of Istanbul and the Golden Horn. From here you can see both Europe and Asia.
Julien Viaud was born in 1850 in Rochefort France. He was the youngest of six children in a Protestant family. At 17 he joined the French Navy. He became a captain in 1881. In later years he was promoted to colonel.
As a naval officer Pierre Loti traveled extensively. He wrote about his experiences in his books. Istanbul was his favorite place. Because of this love the most beautiful hill in Istanbul was named after him.
Pierre Loti Hill is in the Eyüp district. It overlooks the Golden Horn. To get there take a cable car from Eyüp. The ride itself offers beautiful views.
While enjoying Turkish coffee and baklava you can see the Rumeli Fortress. This fortress was important in the conquest of Istanbul. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Khan used it to protect the Bosphorus from enemy ships.
You can also explore the Eyup Sultan Mosque. Ottoman sultans performed sword ceremonies there.
Pierre Loti’s real name was Louis Marie Julien Viaud. He got the name Loti from Tahitian natives during an expedition. It comes from an exotic plant.
Pierre Loti wrote the book Aziyadé on Pierre Loti Hill. The book tells the story of a woman he met in Istanbul. He always described himself as a Turkish lover.
In 1920 Pierre Loti was named an honorary citizen of Istanbul. A street and a coffeehouse he frequented were named after him. The coffeehouse is on Pierre Loti Hill. That is why the hill is called Pierre Loti.
There are many cafes and restaurants on Pierre Loti Hill. You can enjoy tea coffee breakfast or other meals. Prices vary.
Historical Coffee is a popular spot open from morning until midnight. It offers special menus for everyone.
To get to Pierre Loti Hill you can take a metro bus to Ayvansaray station. From there walk towards Eyüp. You can take the cable car or walk uphill.
The TF2 Eyüp-Piyerloti cable car line takes you to the hill. The ride is short and offers great views of the Golden Horn.
There are binoculars on the viewing terrace. You can get a closer look at the Golden Horn. You can use the Istanbul Card for the cable car.
The Villa Pierre Loti connects us to a writer who loved Istanbul. His legacy lives on through this beautiful hill and its stunning views. Take a moment to imagine Pierre Loti himself sitting here inspired by the beauty around him.