Sirkeci Train Station’s architectural splendor is a testament to Istanbul’s historical depth and cultural richness. The station’s facade, adorned with intricate designs and an opulent style, reflects the grandeur of the late 19th century. It’s not just a transit point but a symbol of the city’s connection to Europe and the wider world. The interior of the station still retains its original charm, with high ceilings, ornate windows, and vintage fixtures, transporting visitors back to an era of luxurious travel. The station’s significance extends beyond its physical beauty; it played a crucial role in Istanbul’s social and economic development, facilitating trade and cultural exchanges between continents.
The legacy of Sirkeci Train Station is deeply intertwined with the history of the Orient Express. This legendary train service, synonymous with luxury and mystery, has inspired numerous works of literature and cinema. The station’s Orient Express waiting room, preserved in its original state, is a living museum, showcasing memorabilia and photographs from the golden age of rail travel. Visitors can explore this unique exhibition, gaining insights into the lives of the elite travelers who once passed through these halls.
Sirkeci Train Station: A Timeless Hub
Located within the old city of İstanbul, Sirkeci train station was built in 1890. The first railway to connect Istanbul to European countries, the Sirkeci train station quickly became an important hub and the last stop of the famous Orient Express line. The final version of the building was designed by the German architect August Jasmund, with the request of Sultan Abdülhamid II. Jasmund was asked to create a building that would be glamorous enough for the passengers of the Orient Express and depart in a setting worthy of the luxury of the train itself.
The Evolution of Sirkeci Station
Jasmund created for the occasion an “orientalist style” that was greatly admired but the building was also modern, having gas lighting and heating in winter. The current building has been preserved in its original state. Inside, one can easily imagine the ambiance at the departure of the Simplon Orient Express in 1920. But the station’s surroundings changed very much since 1890, as in those days there were hardly any buildings around. The passengers were in a pleasant setting of garden and trees, with the ground descending in terraces to the sea.
Today, standing majestically in the heart of Istanbul, Sirkeci Train Station continues to captivate visitors with its historical grandeur and modern vibrancy. A visit to this iconic station is not just a journey through time but an experience of the enduring charm and cultural richness of Istanbul.
Trivia: Among the passengers of Orient Express was the famous crime novelist Agatha Christie. She traveled from Europe to Istanbul in 1933 by Orient Express and she stayed in Istanbul for a couple of months. During her stay in Pera Palace Hotel, she wrote one of her most known books, the Murder on the Orient Express.
