Once a humble fishing village, Kartal now pulses with the energy of modern Istanbul. Its name means “eagle” in Turkish. Folk etymology suggests this name reflects its soaring ambitions. This district has transformed dramatically over the centuries.
Kartal’s story stretches back to the Byzantine Empire. Back then it was known as Kartalimen or Kartalimin. It was founded in the 6th century. Imagine small fishing boats bobbing gently on the Marmara Sea.
The Seljuks, led by Suleyman Shah, conquered Kartal in the 11th century. Control shifted again in 1329. Kartal became part of the Ottoman Empire. The Byzantines briefly reclaimed it in 1403. But their hold lasted only 17 years. The Ottomans then regained control.
By the late 19th century, Kartal was a diverse community. The Ottoman General Census recorded a mix of Greeks, Muslims, Armenians and other residents.
The 20th century brought industrialization to Kartal. Commuter trains from Haydarpaşa Terminal boosted its importance. Factories sprang up along the coast. But times changed. Many factories closed and moved inland. The cement factory, once a landmark, shut down in 2003. It is now being transformed into a cultural center.
Kartal is experiencing renewal today. Luxury apartment complexes dot the coastline. New housing attracts shops and infrastructure. Building slowed briefly after the 1999 earthquake. People became aware of the fault line offshore.
The Greater Istanbul Municipality has big plans for Kartal. They envision a new urban center with business districts and luxury residences. Cultural facilities like concert halls and museums are planned. A marina and tourist hotels will attract visitors.
Kartal is well-connected. The Kadıköy-Sabiha Gökçen Airport metro line ends here. The Marmaray commuter train line also runs through Kartal.
The land itself shapes Kartal. Sandy and clay soils define the coast. Silica dominates the northern part. Limestone and quartz can be found on Yakacık Hill.
Streams like Paşaköy and Kavaklıdere feed the reservoir behind the Ömerli Dam. These waterways sustain the region.
Kartal offers green spaces too. A “mist” park provides relief during hot summers. It features artificial mist, lights and classical music.
Kartal embraces its diverse cultural landscape. Kartal Cemevi serves the Alevi community. The Kartal Surp Nişan Armenian Orthodox Church stands as a testament to faith. The Muhammad Maarifi Mosque houses a mausoleum. Seventy mosques dot the district.
Kartal maintains connections beyond Turkey. It has sister city relationships with towns in Bulgaria and Bosnia and Herzegovina. These links foster cultural exchange.
Kartal has transformed from a fishing village to a modern district. Its history is rich and varied. From Byzantine beginnings to Ottoman rule and industrial growth. Kartal continues to evolve. It looks forward to its future as a cultural and commercial hub.