“Water is life” is the silent motto of Istanbul. The story of the \u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi reflects this beautifully. This elegant fountain stands here in Beykoz. It whispers tales of philanthropy and history.
\u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi is not just a fountain. It is a symbol of Istanbul’s rich heritage. Built around 1749 or 1750 by \u0130shak A\u011fa, a former Istanbul Customs Trustee. It offered respite to travelers and locals alike.
Imagine Istanbul in the mid-18th century. \u0130shak A\u011fa, having completed his service, decided to give back to the community. He commissioned this fountain. Its waters flowed freely. It quenched the thirst of passersby. The \u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi became a vital part of daily life.
Originally, all four sides had spouts and basins. Over time, two spouts were closed. The basins were filled in. This changed its appearance. Yet, the fountain continued to serve its purpose.
The fountain faced challenges. In 1970, construction disrupted its water supply. But in 1972, it was restored. Its inscription-bearing facade was lowered below ground level. Two spouts were added. This ingenious solution revived the fountain. People had to descend steps to reach it.
Restoration in 2005 addressed this issue. The ground level was adjusted. The original basin on the front facade was rebuilt. In 2014, the front spout was replaced with a tap. Today the \u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi still functions.
Architecturally, the \u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi is a pillar fountain. It features a square prism made of marble. The fountain’s reservoir stands four meters tall. It is capped with a stepped marble eave. The top is adorned with volutes.
Each facade is framed by rectangular moldings. They enclose a shallow niche. These niches mirror the shape of a mirror stone. Two sides feature working taps. The marble basins on the other two sides have been filled.
Above one of the taps, there is a three-line inscription. Edirneli Emin Efendi inscribed it in the Jali Thuluth style. The inscription reflects the fountain’s purpose.
The \u0130shak A\u11fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi also known as Teraziba\u015f\u0131 \u00c7e\u015fmesi. It stands as a testament to enduring philanthropy. It is a reminder of Istanbul’s commitment to providing for its people. This fountain is more than stone and water. It embodies the spirit of giving. So, as you stand before the \u0130shak A\u011fa \u00c7e\u015fmesi remember its story. It is a story of resilience, restoration, and the timeless value of public service.