Famous Animal Statues in Istanbul

Istanbul, with its historical texture and cultural richness, is a special city not only for humans but also for animals. Kadıköy, in particular, is known for its love for stray animals and this love is embodied in the animal statues scattered all over the city. So, what are the stories behind the animal statues in Istanbul? Let's explore Istanbul's famous animal statues and their stories.Tombili, who became a worldwide phenomenon with his 'young man' sitting on a paving stone in Ziverbey, passed away on August 1, 2016 due to kidney failure. After his death, 17 thousand signatures were collected on Change.org to build his statue, and Kadıköy Municipality started to work. The sculptor Seval Şahin volunteered to build the statue, and on October 4, World Animal Protection Day, the statue was placed in Güleç Çıkmazı, where that magnificent pose was taken.Tarçın, the best friend of the people of Moda, lost her life in May 2016 at the age of 18 due to a car going in the opposite direction. Named Tarçın because of the colour of his fur, the dog was a guest in many homes, but he loved the street the most. The death of Tarçın, who was the best friend of the residents of Moda, who watched her surroundings from the corner where she slept, who did no harm to anyone, and who spread happiness around her, deeply saddened everyone. But Tarçın was not forgotten; İskender Giray, a sculptor from Moda, made a statue of Tarçın at the place where she always waited at the Moda nose. The base of the statue was a cushion made from concrete.Tommy, a well-behaved street dog fed by the locals in Fenerbahçe Dalyan, is one of the street dogs who lost his life after being hit by a car. Like Cinnamon, he passed away due to a car coming from the opposite direction. Tommy, who was very good with cats, was even seen nursing a cat. Tommy keeps his place in the hearts of Kadıköy residents with his statue made by sculptor Ümit Öztürk. Tommy greets passers-by with his statue at the feeding point for street animals in Dalyan.Source: Gazete KadıköyLocated in Altıyol Square in Kadıköy, the Bull Statue is one of the most well-known meeting points of the neighbourhood. Built in 1864 by French sculptor Isidore Jules Bonheur, the statue has been in many places over time. First made in France, the statue was later brought to Germany and then to the Ottoman Empire. The statue, which was presented as a gift to Enver Pasha, was brought to Kadıköy after staying at Yıldız Palace for a while. In 1987, the Bull Statue was placed in its current location in Altıyol and became the symbol of Kadıköy.Emirgan Korusu attracts attention not only with its natural beauties but also with the animal sculptures it harbours. The sculpture “Female Deer Drinking Water and Her Fawn”, located in the garden of Sarı Köşk, is a work of art intertwined with nature. This sculpture reminds visitors of the importance of protecting nature and animals.Source: İstanbul'u DinliyorumThe “Lion on a Snake” sculpture in the garden of Dolmabahçe Palace symbolises strength and courage. This sculpture is one of the important examples of how animal figures were used in art during the Ottoman period. This sculpture, which adorns the garden of the palace, offers visitors a combination of history and art. Source: WikimapiaThe sculpture “Lion Jumping on a Cactus”, located near the gate of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, is a remarkable work of art. This sculpture symbolises the strength and agility of the lion, and offers a different aesthetic with its stance on the cactus. Located in the city centre, this sculpture shows the importance Istanbul attaches to art. Source: Kültür EnvanteriThe sculptures of “Lioness Gathering Her Cubs” and “Roaring Bull” in the gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace show the importance the Ottoman period attached to animal figures. These sculptures are important elements that complement the aesthetic structure of the palace. Visitors can closely see the elegance of Ottoman art with these sculptures. Source: Mecmua Istanbul

Famous Animal Statues in Istanbul: Iconic Sculptures to Discover Across the Country

Tombili: The Legendary Cat of Ziverbey

Tarçın: Moda's Loyal Dog

Tommy: Fenerbahçe's Cat-Friendly Dog

Bull Statue Symbol of Kadikoy

Deer Statues in Emirgan Grove

Lion Statue in Dolmabahçe Palace

Lion Statue in front of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality

Lion Sculptures in Beylerbeyi Palace

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