The building among the meadows behind the courtyard of Bayezid Mosque and high walls is the Ministry of Millitary affairs constructed by the French architect, Auguste Bourgeios between 1866 - 1870. Before this date the Old Palace occupied this place. Old palace was the place the Ottoman dynasty lived in. And before the Old Palace, there were basilicas built in 5th and 6th centuries at the same place. After the Ministries were moved to Ankara, this building was transfered to University of Istanbul.
The tall tower (85m) in front of the rectory building is Bayezid Tower and was constructed in 1828 as a fire observation tower with the order of Sultan Mahmut II.
The tower was constructed of white Marmara marble and its architect was Senekerim Kahly and Balyans who constructed many palaces. It has 180 stairs and 4 floors. The names of these floors are "turn, sign, basket and flag". The neon lamps on the top of the tower inform people about the weather and give meteorological information.
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