Built on a small Bosphorus islet off the coast of Üsküdar, the Maiden’s Tower has been in the centre of many myths. According to one, it was built by an emperior to protect his daughter who he saw die of snakebite in a dream. The effort proved futile as the snake hid itself in a fruit basket and bit her anyway. Having served as a customshouse, watchtower, lighthouse, radar station, and warehouse throughout its 2,500-year history, it also marked the entrance of the Bosphorus. The foundations and most of the lower storey of the tower were built during the reign of Mehmet II, and it took its final shape during the reign of Mahmut II. The tower has undergone major renovation and is now used as a restaurant and observation deck.