Karacaahmet Cemetery
A 700-year-old cemetery in Üsküdar, the largest burial ground in Turkey, with cypress-lined paths and historic tombstones.
Karacaahmet Cemetery sprawls across 750 acres on the Asian side of Istanbul, making it the largest cemetery in Turkey and the second oldest in the city. Founded in the 14th century, it contains the graves of countless Ottoman figures, from sultans to scholars, all shaded by ancient cypress trees. Walking through its quiet alleys, you’ll see a mix of ornate Ottoman headstones and simpler markers, many with inscriptions in Ottoman Turkish. The cemetery is still in use today, so you may encounter funeral processions or visitors praying at graves. It’s a peaceful, reflective place—especially in the early morning when the light filters through the trees.
“Walk among centuries-old cypress trees and Ottoman tombstones in Istanbul's largest and oldest cemetery.”
Begin at the Karacaahmet Türbesi near the main gate; the oldest graves lie southward along the central cypress path.
Main paths are flat and passable for wheelchairs, but some older sections have uneven ground and steps.
Good to know
- Is Karacaahmet Cemetery free to visit?
- Free. One of Istanbul's oldest Muslim burial grounds — cypress paths and historic tombstones; free daytime walk
- How long should you spend at Karacaahmet Cemetery?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit Karacaahmet Cemetery?
- Morning
- Is Karacaahmet Cemetery wheelchair accessible?
- Main paths are flat and passable for wheelchairs, but some older sections have uneven ground and steps.
