Located on the Kandilli coast overlooking the Bosphorus, the Count Astrolog Mansion is a magnificent waterfront villa with a red facade, distinguished by its historical and architectural features.
Nested against the lush green hills of Kandilli, the Kont Ostrorog Mansion is a magnificent structure immediately noticeable on the Bosphorus coastline with its bright red facade. Viewed from the sea, the mansion, with its wide facade reflecting Ottoman elegance, rises in harmony with the surrounding natural beauty. For boats passing through the Bosphorus, this historic mansion is like a special symbol reminding them of the splendor of the past. Attracting the attention of both those passing along the shore and travelers navigating the Bosphorus with its majestic appearance, the mansion is an important element that complements the aesthetics of the Istanbul Bosphorus.
History of the Kont Ostrorog Mansion
Although the history of the mansion dates back to the 18th century, the main part of the current structure was built in 1850 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid by the Minister of Justice Server Pasha and was known for many years as the "Server Pasha Mansion"; In 1904, it changed hands for the first time when it was sold to Kont Léon Ostrorog, a lawyer of Polish origin. The following year, Kont Ostrorog also purchased the Ahmet Aşkî Paşa Mansion, which was adjacent to the mansion, and expanded his residence by combining the two buildings.
Under the ownership of the Ostrorog family, the mansion became a meeting point for intellectuals and artists of the time; conversational gatherings accompanied by music and literature were held inside. The Ostrorogs also hosted many distinguished guests in this mansion, including French President Georges Pompidou, Princess Margrethe of Denmark, and the famous French writer Pierre Loti. After Kont Ostrorog's death, the mansion passed to his heirs and was registered as a cultural heritage site in 1971; in 2000, it was purchased by businessman Rahmi Koç and extensively restored. Today, it continues to be used as a private property belonging to the Koç family.
Architecture of Kont Ostrorog Mansion
Kont Ostrorog Mansion is a two-story, 15-room wooden structure that is a classic example of Ottoman civil architecture on the Bosphorus, but also bears traces of neo-classical style. Because its exterior is painted red with traditional ochre paint, it is also known as the "Red Mansion" among the public. The overall form of the mansion is actually formed by the integration of two separate structures, giving it a unique appearance, and upon close inspection, it gives the impression of two mansions together. The interior layout and decorations are in a European style, and the fine details of Ottoman wood carving are visible on the ceilings. In the mansion's garden, there is a marble fountain from the 19th century, a selsebil (water fountain), a bath mirror from 1882, and a magnificent pine tree that is approximately 200 years old. Due to the European character of its interior decorations, this building was once nicknamed "the European on the Bosphorus."
Exploring Kont Ostrorog Mansion by Yacht
As you approach the Kandilli shores from the waters of the Bosphorus, Kont Ostrorog Mansion greets you in all its splendor. Seeing the mansion from the sea offers a much different and more privileged perspective than the view you can see from land. Watching the reflection of the mansion's red facade on the waves as you glide over the water is one of the most impressive views you can enKonter during your Bosphorus tour. You can rent a private boat or yacht, pass in front of the mansion, take a photo break, and immortalize this moment. Many Bosphorus boat tour routes are organized to include historical mansions such as Kont Ostrorog Mansion; you also have the option of creating your own route if you wish. Yacht rental prices can vary depending on the features of the boat you choose and the duration of the tour, so it would be beneficial to do some research beforehand to find an option that suits your budget. Thanks to this exploration from the sea, you can closely observe both the mansion's commanding view of the Bosphorus and its fine architectural details. Watching this magnificent mansion, where history and scenery meet, accompanied by a yacht tour will turn into an unforgettable Istanbul memory.