Arnavutköy, İstanbul

Historical Development of Arnavutköy

Located in the northwest of Istanbul, the largest metropolis in Türkiye, the Arnavutköy district possesses a deep-rooted history. The history of the region was shaped by its role as a vital center meeting the city's water needs during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. In particular, the area surrounding Terkoz Gölü (Durusu Gölü) maintained its strategic importance for centuries.

Ottoman Period and Water Infrastructure

During the Ottoman Empire, the most critical facilities feeding the city's water network were constructed within these borders. The historic Terkos Pumping Station, which serves today as the Terkos Water Culture Museum, was built in the late 19th century and became the heart of the modern water system. On the Black Sea coast, the Karaburun Sahili played a critical commercial and military role with its historic lighthouse guiding ships entering the Bosphorus.

Modern Era and District Status

During the Republican era, the area consisted of villages under Çatalca and Gaziosmanpaşa for a long time, until it gained independent district status through administrative reorganization in 2008. Today, it has acquired a global vision by hosting the İstanbul Havalimanı project, one of the world's largest transportation hubs. To examine the exact geographic boundaries of the area, you can refer to the Harita section.