Oldtown Sultanahmet Suites is aware of the responsibility that comes with operating in the Historic Peninsula, one of the world's most important historical and cultural centers. At the heart of our sustainability commitment is preventing and minimizing all negative impacts of our operations on biodiversity and wildlife.
Our facility operates in full compliance with Turkish environmental and wildlife protection laws, including the Environmental Law (No. 2872), Cultural and Natural Assets Protection Law (No. 2863), Land Hunting Law (No. 4915), Animal Protection Law (No. 5199), and international agreements such as the CITES Convention.
We kindly ask our guests to follow these guidelines to help protect the region's natural heritage:
Respect for Historical and Natural Heritage
Please take care to protect historical monuments, structures, and urban green spaces in and around our area of operation. Avoid any actions that may damage the natural fabric of the environment.
What this means:
- Do not remove or damage plants, flowers, or natural elements
- Respect protected areas and barriers
- Stay on designated paths in parks and gardens
- Do not climb on historical structures or trees
Responsible Wildlife Interaction
Maintain a safe distance from birds (seagulls, pigeons) and other free-roaming creatures commonly seen around Sultanahmet.
Important Guidelines:
- Do not feed these animals with human food that is not suitable for their natural diet
- Feeding wildlife causes harm to their health and disrupts their natural balance
- Do not chase, corner, or stress wild animals
- Observe wildlife from a respectful distance
- Do not disturb nesting birds, especially during breeding season
Prohibited Product Trade (CITES Compliance)
In accordance with national and international prohibitions (CITES), please:
Do NOT purchase, possess, or bring into the country any products derived from endangered plant and animal species, including:
- Coral and marine products
- Exotic leather goods (crocodile, snake, lizard, etc.)
- Ivory products
- Protected wood species
- Furs from endangered animals
- Products made from sea turtles
- Certain orchid and cactus species
Warning: Violations of CITES regulations carry serious criminal penalties and can result in confiscation of goods, fines, and legal prosecution.
Waste Management
Dispose of all your waste in closed and designated bins. Uncontrolled garbage harms both urban biodiversity and the aesthetics of the region.
Guidelines:
- Use only designated waste bins
- Separate recyclables where facilities are provided
- Do not leave food waste in open areas
- Plastic waste is particularly harmful to birds and marine life
- Report overflowing bins to local authorities or our staff
Our Commitment
As Oldtown Sultanahmet Suites, we are committed to:
- Full compliance with all applicable national and international environmental and wildlife protection laws
- Educating our guests about responsible behavior in protected areas
- Minimizing our operational impact on local biodiversity
- Supporting conservation efforts in the Historic Peninsula
- Regular review and update of our environmental policies
- Cooperation with local authorities on wildlife protection matters
Urban Biodiversity in the Historic Peninsula
Despite its urban character, the Sultanahmet area hosts diverse wildlife:
Bird Species:
- Seagulls (Yellow-legged Gull, Black-headed Gull)
- Rock Pigeons and Collared Doves
- House Sparrows and European Starlings
- Hooded Crows
- Migratory species during spring and fall
Other Wildlife:
- Street cats (protected under Law 5199)
- Hedgehogs in parks
- Various insect and pollinator species
- Marine life in surrounding waters
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you contribute to the preservation of the Historic Peninsula's unique biodiversity while ensuring your visit complies with Turkish and international environmental protection laws.
We appreciate your cooperation in protecting this extraordinary natural and cultural heritage for future generations.