On the Anatolian side of the Istanbul Bosphorus, the Yalı of Elbiseci Ahmet Bey, notable for its elegant architecture along the shores of Kanlıca, is a historical mansion that attracts the attention of everyone passing through the Bosphorus.
With its dazzling white facade, red-tiled roof, and wooden embellishments reflecting the style of Ottoman seaside mansions, this mansion captivates at first glance and creates a pleasant contrast with the surrounding greenery. When viewed from the cool waters of the Bosphorus, its majestic two-story structure and wide front facade are immediately noticeable. With the changing light at different hours of the day, Elbiseci Ahmet Bey Mansion adds a nostalgic touch to Istanbul's historical silhouette and makes observers feel the elegance of the past.
History
The mansion, built by Selami Efendi around 1850 in the mid-19th century, initially witnessed the lives of high-ranking Ottoman families. It is known as one of the properties of Asaf Pasha, who showed great valor during the Crimean War in Kanlıca; indeed, for a period, while Asaf Pasha's family stayed in the main mansion, his servants resided in this southern mansion. After Asaf Pasha's death, the mansion was inherited by his servants, and with their passing, it was sold to Esvapçı (Cloth Merchant) Ahmet Bey, one of the prominent merchants in the Sultanhamam area. This is where the building gets its name today. This structure, also known at one time as Tatlıcı Süleyman Mansion, changed hands among different families as it transitioned from the Ottoman period to the Republic, yet it has maintained its architectural features.
Recently, the mansion has come to the forefront due to its association with the family of Necmettin Erbakan, one of Turkey's former prime ministers. In the 2010s, this historic structure became a topic of inheritance dispute among his family, and in 2016, it was registered under the ownership of Erbakan's son-in-law Mehmet Altınöz by court decision. The Elbiseci Ahmet Bey Mansion is currently protected as a second-degree historical artifact. Since it is private property, it is not open for visits from the inside; however, it can be viewed from the outside and is an integral part of the Bosphorus view for those traveling by yacht.
Explore By Yacht
You can best experience the beauty of the Istanbul Bosphorus from the water. The most enjoyable way to discover this rare mansion on the shores of Kanlıca is through a private yacht tour while renting a yacht in Istanbul. While cruising on the Bosphorus, you will have the opportunity to see the white silhouette of Elbiseci Ahmet Bey Mansion up close, and you can admire its historical texture and intricate details from the sea. Moreover, from your yacht, you can comfortably photograph the mansion's garden that blends with the Bosphorus and its dock extending to the shore. Watching this magnificent structure with the sound of waves away from the hustle of the city offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
When you
renting a yacht in Istanbul for a Bosphorus tour and steer your route towards Kanlıca Bay, you will be greeted by Elbiseci Ahmet Bey Mansion along with other historic mansions in the area. You can create your own itinerary in the comfort of the yacht and enjoy the Bosphorus independently from crowded ferries. While gliding between Kanlıca's famous lush hills and historical mansions, you can receive information from your guide about the region's rich history or simply let yourself be carried away by the magic of the moment. A private yacht tour offers flexibility and privilege to discover this unique mansion and its surroundings, providing both local and foreign guests with a unique Bosphorus experience.
If you want to see this exquisite corner of the Bosphorus during your trip to Istanbul, be sure to rent a yacht and set your own route. Accessing special properties, such as the Elbiseci Ahmet Bey Mansion, from the sea without causing any disturbance is the best way to see them. Thanks to the yacht tour, you can pass slowly in front of the mansion, absorbing the traces of the past in peace and imagining the splendor of the Ottoman era. During this journey, accompanied by the cool breezes of the Bosphorus, you can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of the Kanlıca shores and this historic mansion, whether in the golden light of sunrise or the crimson glow of sunset.