My next article is dedicated to the Rami Library, which is considered the largest library complex in Europe. This landmark is located in the European part of beautiful Istanbul.
How to Get There
The library is quite far from the popular tourist areas of the city, but it is easily accessible by public transportation. There is a tram stop, Rami on the T4 line, right next to the complex. For example, if you travel from the Eminönü pier, the journey takes 41 minutes.
Entry to the library grounds is free. The reading rooms are open daily and around the clock.
A Bit of History
In the past, the library complex site was a farm. Later, in the first half of the 19th century, barracks were built here. The buildings were used for military purposes until 1971.
In 2014, a major renovation began to adapt the premises into a huge modern library. The work continued until January 2023. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended the opening of the complex.
The original structures were preserved in the library's premises, and the unplastered interiors of the complex remind visitors of its harsh military past. Today, the area of the Rami complex is 36,000 square meters.
An even larger area is occupied by the enormous inner courtyard of the library, with places for rest and reading, a sculpture, greenery, and a pond. The complex can accommodate 4,200 readers. According to the initial plans, the library's book collection is expected to include seven million volumes of various publications.
The Rami Library is not among the most popular attractions in vast Istanbul. I would recommend a trip here to those who are already familiar with the city's main tourist spots. You can combine a visit to this part of Istanbul with a trip to the Eyüpsultan Cable Car, which is a 30-minute walk away.
By the way, although libraries are not usually considered the most interesting attractions, this is not the first time I have written about them on my channel. A year ago, there was an article about the amazing Library of Celsus in Ephesus.
Have a nice trip!
