İzmit Clock Tower, İzmit, Kocaeli
Clock Tower was also planned to be constructed in a way to witness a historical anniversary. Clock Tower was built by the Kocaeli Governor Musa Kazım Bey of the period to commemorate the 25th year of 2. Abdulhamit Han’s acceding to the throne. The tower which is one ofthe first work of art of Architecture Vedat Tekin, was constructed in neo-classical style. In its construction travertine stones were used that are unique to Hereke and Tavflancıl regions. Its clock was re-manufactured in 1929 by Mustafa Semi. In the bottom floor of the tower there are 3 fountains in 3 directions. There are stone epigraphs on pediments of the fountains and over the gate of the towel. In these epigraphs, words “Municipality built this tower and the fountains for Seyit Kamari in 1318” are written in Arabic alphabet.
There is the signature of 2. Abdulhamit in the cartridge with a circle shape on the middle floor. In the epigraph written in Latin alphabet, written later, next to the entrance gate of the clock tower, it is mentioned that it was repaired by SEKA in 1970’s. The tower adds a different harmony to the city with its lead covered roof, with its unique high cone, as if it just walked out of an ancient fairy tale.
Epic Turkey Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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