Bahçelievler (District)

Bahçelievler is one of the prominent districts on the European side of Istanbul, combining both historical and modern urban elements. Known as Hepdemon during the Byzantine period, the area was used primarily for agriculture during the Ottoman era and underwent rapid urbanization in the 20th century to reach its current form.

Bordering the districts of Bakırköy, Küçükçekmece, Güngören, and Bağcılar, Bahçelievler has become one of Istanbul’s most accessible regions thanks to the E-5 Highway, metrobus, and subway lines. It is an important hub for commerce and industry, with Kuyumcukent and various industrial zones forming the backbone of its economy.

With strong educational and cultural infrastructure, the district is home to institutions like Istanbul Aydın University and several cultural centers. Historical landmarks such as the Siyavuş Pasha Pavilion, Çobançeşme Bridge, and Viran Palace add to its appeal, while its numerous social and sports facilities aim to enhance residents’ quality of life.

History

The area where Bahçelievler is located was known as Hepdemon during the Byzantine Empire. It served as a settlement known for agriculture and viticulture and was situated along the route of caravans heading to Constantinople. The Byzantines built palaces, churches, and residences here, and the region was particularly popular as a summer retreat.

During the Ottoman period, the significance of Hepdemon declined. The Christian population gradually migrated to the city center, leaving the area largely deserted. While nearby areas like Bakırköy and Yeşilköy developed, Bahçelievler remained mostly agricultural land.

Following the Second Constitutional Era, changes in the state's property system led to large tracts of land in Bahçelievler being put up for sale starting in 1912. Urbanization accelerated in the 1950s, and in 1992, Bahçelievler was separated from Bakırköy and became an independent district under Law No. 3806, with the establishment of Bahçelievler Municipality.

Geographical Location and Neighborhoods

Located on Istanbul’s European side, Bahçelievler borders Bakırköy, Küçükçekmece, Bağcılar, and Güngören. The E-5 Highway forms its southern boundary, while the D-100 road surrounds it to the north. The district has a flat and slightly sloped terrain.

Bahçelievler consists of 11 neighborhoods:

• Bahçelievler
• Çobançeşme
• Cumhuriyet
• Fevzi Çakmak
• Hürriyet
• Kocasinan Merkez
• Siyavuşpaşa
• Soğanlı
• Şirinevler
• Yenibosna Merkez
• Zafer

Economy and Trade

Bahçelievler has become one of Istanbul’s key commercial and industrial centers. Industrial zones and business districts located in Yenibosna and Kocasinan drive the local economy. Major commercial hubs include:

• Istanbul Kuyumcukent: Turkey’s largest gold and jewelry trade center.
• Industrial and production facilities: Active in textiles, logistics, and auto spare parts manufacturing.
• Shopping Centers: Examples include Metroport Mall, StarCity Outlet, and Ömür Plaza.
• Small businesses and local shops are also widespread, particularly in Şirinevler, Yenibosna, and the central Bahçelievler area.

Transportation

Bahçelievler lies on some of Istanbul’s busiest transportation routes. Transportation options include:

• Metrobus Line: With stops at İncirli, Bahçelievler, and Şirinevler along the E-5.
• M1A Metro Line: The Yenikapı–Atatürk Airport line passes through the district.
• M3 Metro Line: Serves the Başakşehir–Kayaşehir–Kirazlı route, with stops like İncirli, Haznedar, İlkyuva, and Yıldıztepe within the district.
• M9 Metro Line: Running between Bahariye, Ataköy, and Olimpiyat, with stops such as Yenibosna, Çobançeşme, and Doğu Sanayi in the area.
• T1 Tram Line: Though it does not directly serve Bahçelievler, it operates in nearby neighborhoods.
• Bus and Minibus Lines: Provide access to various parts of Istanbul.

Sports and Social Facilities

The district hosts several major sports facilities, including:

• Muhsin Yazıcıoğlu Sports Complex
• Siyavuşpaşa Sports Complex
• Taha Akgül Sports Complex
• Zafer Sports Complex

Notable social facilities include:

• Ahmet Yesevi Social Facility
• Sadri Alışık Social Facility
• Siyavuşpaşa Social Facility
• Zafer Social Facility

Historical Landmarks

Bahçelievler is also home to several historic structures:

• Havuzlu Köşk (Siyavuş Pasha Pavilion): A significant example of 16th-century Ottoman civil architecture, now functioning as a children's library.
• Çoban Çeşmesi and Bridge (Mimar Sinan Bridge): A historical bridge from the Byzantine era, restored during the Ottoman period.
• Soğanlı Fountain: Built to meet the water needs of Byzantine soldiers.
• Viran Palace (Viran Bosna): Ruins of a palace dating back to the Ottoman period.