Located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in Kanlıca, the Ali Mazhar Bey Mansion is a structure that draws the attention of everyone passing through the Bosphorus with its majestic appearance.
Especially its white-painted exterior and red-tiled roof rise among the green trees, creating a contrast with the blue waters. With its wide eaves and roof extending to the ground, this mansion, reminiscent of the mountain houses in the Swiss Alps, creates a distinct and eye-catching silhouette within the traditional architecture of the Bosphorus. When you pass in front of it on a private boat or through organized Bosphorus tours, the elegant image of the mansion reflected in the water and its historical texture leaves an impressive impression at first glance.
History
Ali Mazhar Bey Mansion was built in 1864 during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz. Originally constructed in wood, this seaside mansion has a unique story as it was built using excess materials left over from the 1863 Sultanahmet Arts and Trade Exhibition. Designed as a functional and aesthetic wooden mansion according to the conditions of the period, the building quickly became one of the distinguished examples of civil architecture in the Bosphorus. The first owner of the mansion was Hacı Tevfik Bey and his brothers, who were engaged in the trade of musk (a fragrant substance) and oil in Uzunçarşı; hence, the building was also popularly known as the Musk Yağcı Mansion.
In the first half of the 20th century, the mansion was purchased by Dr. Ali Mazhar Bey, who made significant changes to the structure. Dr. Ali Mazhar demolished a part of the old wooden mansion in 1939 and the remaining section in 1941, replacing it with a masonry (stone/bricks) building. However, a fire in 1943 caused significant damage to the mansion as it was at that time. After the fire, the mansion was rebuilt in accordance with its original form, returning to its elegant appearance on the Bosphorus. During this process, the structure managed to preserve its unique style influenced by Northern European trends, which does not conform to classical Ottoman mansion architecture. With its wide eaves roof and steep roof lines, the architecture of the mansion differentiates itself from traditional Ottoman style, reflecting the influences of European alpine architecture. Today, Ali Mazhar Bey Mansion is used as a private residence and its interior is not open to visitors. However, in order to preserve its cultural value, it was declared a registered historical monument in 1971. For this reason, its exterior and general structure have largely been preserved to the present day and it continues to exist as a part of the historical heritage of the Bosphorus.
Explore By Yacht
The most enjoyable way to explore this elegant mansion on the shores of Kanlıca and the surrounding beauties is undoubtedly the experience of renting a yacht in the Bosphorus. Setting sail on a yacht of your own in the Istanbul Bosphorus allows you to capture unique photos as you glide past the historical mansions. If you especially want to see structures like the Ali Mazhar Bey Mansion, which can only be viewed in all their grandeur from the sea, you can enjoy the Bosphorus with a private yacht tour. Watching this historical structure accompanied by the cool breeze of the Marmara, in a comfortable environment away from the crowds, will be an unforgettable experience.
To fully explore the pearl of the Bosphorus, the Kanlıca neighborhood and its surrounding mansions, it is recommended to
rented a yacht in Istanbul. With a yacht that allows you to create your own route, you can stop at any point to enjoy the view, unlike crowded ferry tours. You can also see other Ottoman-era mansions in the vicinity, along with the Ali Mazhar Bey Mansion, and enrich your tour by listening to their stories with a guide. While approaching the tranquil coves of the Bosphorus by yacht, you have the chance to experience Istanbul's historical texture and natural beauties together.
Rent a yacht to fully experience the magical atmosphere of the Istanbul Bosphorus and see this different face of the city with your own eyes. Rent a yacht, and while heading towards the famous shores of Kanlıca, anchor wherever you wish and enjoy the view. If you like, you can take a short break on the shore to taste Kanlıca's famous yogurt, and then you can pass by the waterfront mansions to capture the panoramic views of the European and Asian sides in one go. This exploration tour with your own private yacht will allow you to experience historical beauties such as the Ali Mazhar Bey Yalısı up close, making it one of the most unforgettable moments of your Istanbul trip.