An episode in the long history of the Maiden's Tower in Istanbul: "Kule-i Duhter" in the 18th century

The so-called Maiden's Tower, although not a grand and imposing monument, is nevertheless an irreplaceable feature of Istanbul skyline. The tower is in fact a much larger entity than its mere material existence or architectural quality; the legends surrounding it carry the monument to the realm of intangible heritage thus extending its value.Used for many different purposes during its long history (a defence castle, a lighthouse, a banishment site, a quarantine island...), the tower underwent a recent restoration to be finally converted into a restaurant and cafeteria. Instigating some objection and criticism, this decision also raised the tower's popularity.According to a report in a local newspaper of 1880, a tourism use for the tower had already crossed the mind of an Englishman who wanted to lease it for twelve years with the idea of converting it into a hotel, together with a restaurant/ cafe. The tower's exceptional location must have inspired this entrepreneur who apparently could not have finalized his venture.The present article is about the 18th century restorations of "Kule-i Duhter" (the Daughter's Tower), the name given to it by the Ottomans. The article is specifically based on account books and financial records in the Ottoman archives, which document the repairs to the tower. The fact that the monument stands on an island, exposed to winds and salty sprays from the sea is the prime reason for the need of frequent repairs. The repair records, while presenting abundant information on the building itself, its various spaces and characteristics also shed light upon the professional level and mind-set of the period. The evaluation of the archival material in conjunction with two 18th century drawings offers us an insight into a period within the history of the monument, which certainly owes its endurance to the efforts of the well-known chief architects of the century, Kayserili Mehmed Aga and Mehmed Tahir Aga among others.