Did you know Goztepe’s name honors a dervish? Goztepe Mahallesi in Istanbul boasts a history stretching back to 3500 BC. This vibrant neighborhood nestled in the heart of Kadikoy district is far older than you might think. Its name literally means Eye Hill. It’s named after Gozcu Baba a dervish who acted as a watchman from a hilltop hut.
Goztepe’s strategic location contributed to its growth. In late Ottoman times it became a residential area for high court officials. Wealthy Levantines and non-Muslims settled in the western part. They built beautiful wooden mansions surrounded by lush gardens. The area also had farms and dairies supplying the court.
During the first half of the 20th century Goztepe was a popular summer resort. Many of the old wooden houses were unfortunately lost to fires. A few remain however as testaments to a bygone era. The construction of the D100 highway and the Goztepe railway station after the establishment of the Baghdad Railway further fueled the development of Goztepe. The modern Marmaray rail service now uses a newer Goztepe station.
Today Goztepe remains a bustling hub of activity. Its central location near the coastline makes it a lively place. It’s a commercial center with nightlife attracting young people. Traditional neighborhoods and beautiful beaches draw in adults. Goztepe offers excellent amenities. It benefits from easy access to public transport. The Goztepe-Haydar Pasa railway station GZ1 and GZ2 bus lines and the M4 metro line are all readily available.
Families will appreciate its many schools. Top-performing high schools and colleges are located here. These include Avni Akyol High School of Fine Arts and Ihsan Kurunoglu High School. Nearby are several well-regarded Turkish universities such as Istanbul University of Medeniyet Dogus University and Yeditepe University. For those interested in property Goztepe is an attractive option. The prices are above average reflecting its desirability. However it remains relatively affordable compared to some areas of Istanbul.
Goztepe Mahallesi isn’t just a place to live it’s a place with character. A place with a rich history. A place where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. This is Goztepe Mahallesi. A neighborhood that has it all. It’s a place worthy of exploration and discovery. A true gem in the heart of Istanbul.