Pierre Loti Hill is a distinguished hill in Eyup, one of Istanbul's districts full of history and romance. The hill offers a unique view of Istanbul at approximately 55 meters from the Golden Horn shore. The cable car departing from Eyup to reach the top of the hill provides a fast and enjoyable option, especially for those who need a car or who want to avoid walking along the beach. This prominent hill of Istanbul is named after a coffeehouse that the French author Viaud, who settled in Istanbul in 1876 and found inspiration there, once frequently visited. Over time, Pierre Loti has become a port of call for those who want to spend peaceful hours on this hill with a magnificent view.
Pierre Loti, whose real name is Louis Marie Julien Viaud, is a naval officer and famous author born in Rochefort, France. He lived in the Eyup district in Istanbul and always considered himself a Turkish fan. Pierre Loti, who first came to Istanbul on a French ship in 1876, was deeply influenced by the culture of the Ottoman Empire and reflected these experiences in his works. While he spent his days in Istanbul, he met the woman who gave his name to his novel Aziyadé. Loti wrote this novel at the Rabia Women's Coffee House in Eyup.
Pierre Loti's works detail the spiritual richness of Istanbul and the social fabric of the period. His observations and emotional depth allow readers to tour a different period. Pierre Loti is known not only for his literary identity but also for his deep interest in Turkey and Ottoman culture.
His stances shape Pierre Loti's history on behalf of the Turkish people and against Europe during the Balkan Wars, the First World War, and the subsequent occupation of Anatolia. He gained the appreciation of the Turkish people for supporting the resistance in Anatolia during Turkey's national struggle and criticizing his own country's policies.
A letter of thanks sent to Pierre Loti by the Turkish Grand National Assembly in 1921 once again demonstrated his value in the eyes of the Turkish nation. Additionally, he was declared an "Honorary Citizen of the City of Istanbul" in 1920, and a coffeehouse in Eyup was named "Pierre Loti Coffeehouse." Today, the hill where this coffeehouse is located is called Pierre Loti Hill.
Eyup district and Pierre Loti Hill are essential places that reflect Istanbul's cultural and historical texture. Pierre Loti Hill attracts attention with its magnificent view and delicious food options. After your meal at the restaurants on the hill, you can enjoy the view with a cup of coffee. This place offers its visitors the fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul and accumulates unforgettable memories.