The architectural structure of the
Maiden's Tower (
Kız Kulesi) dates back to 341 BC. This cape, which was an extension of the
Bosphorous straits at the time (there are rumours that it was a peninsula before) used to be called "vus". At this date, after being a mausoleum built on marble columns for the wife of
Commander Chares, a chain was pulled from its location at
Sarayburnu to the island where the tower was located, in 410 BC, to make it a customs area controlling the entries and exits of the
Bosphorous strait
.At 1110 AD, the first apparent structure (tower) was built by the
Emperor Manuel Comnenos. This structure, which was built as a defence tower, was named Arcla, meaning "Small Tower". Although there is no clear information about this structure, it is believed to be close to its current dimensions.
