The Bosphorus brings together history and elegance with its natural beauty as well as the palaces rising on its shores.
These buildings, which were built during the Ottoman period, are not only residences, but also symbols reflecting the magnificence of the empire.
Date of construction: 1843-1856
Architect: Garabet Balyan and Nigoğayos Balyan
Location: Beşiktaş
Dolmabahçe Palace, which was built as a result of the Ottoman sultans leaving Topkapı Palace and needing a more modern living space, is a masterpiece reflecting the effects of Western architecture. The palace, where baroque, rococo and neoclassical styles are blended with Ottoman architecture, was completed during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid.
The palace, which has a total of 285 rooms and 46 halls, is one of the most impressive structures on the Bosphorus. It has a special historical importance because it is the place where Atatürk spent his last days. Dolmabahce Palace, which is open to visitors as a museum today, is fascinating with its crystal chandeliers and gold embroidery.
Date of construction: 1863-1871
Architect: Sarkis Balyan
Location: Beşiktaş
Çırağan Palace, built during the reign of Sultan Abdulaziz, is one of the most magnificent structures of the Ottoman Empire. This palace, which draws attention with its façade covered with Marmara marble and its elegant details, reflects the advanced technology and artistic skills of the period.
Çırağan Palace, which serves as a luxury hotel today, hosts the most prestigious events in Istanbul. The palace, which is especially preferred for weddings, business meetings and special invitations, fascinates its guests with its Bosphorus view.
Date of construction: 1861-1865
Architect: Sarkis Balyan
Location: Üsküdar
Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus, was built by Sultan Abdulaziz to be used as a summer palace. This elegant building in the Baroque style was also preferred for the accommodation of foreign dignitaries.
In the interior decoration of the palace, French crystal chandeliers, Hereke carpets and magnificent furniture attract attention. Its impressive location on the seashore and its unique view are among the most important features of the palace.
Date of construction: 1871
Architect: Sarkis Balyan
Location: Ortaköy
Feriye Palace was built as an addition to Çırağan Palace and was designed for the accommodation of Ottoman dynasty members. The palace, which has great historical importance, was also used as government offices and educational institutions in the last periods of the Ottoman Empire.
Today, Feriye Palace serves as a restaurant and event venue. Its location on the shores of the Bosphorus has made it an ideal place for special invitations and organizations.
Date of construction: 1856
Architect: Nigoğayos Balyan
Location: Beykoz
Küçüksu Pavilion was built as a resting and hunting lodge during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid. Small but elegant, this building draws attention with its baroque style. The pavilion, which was used by the Ottoman sultans for short-term rests, has a peaceful atmosphere with its green areas and view overlooking the Bosphorus.
Küçüksu Pavilion, which serves as a museum today, offers its visitors the opportunity to discover the fine tastes and artistic riches of the Ottoman Empire.
Located on the Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe, Çırağan, Beylerbeyi, Feriye Palace and Küçüksu Pavilion reveal the lifestyle and architectural understanding of the Ottoman Empire in different periods. These structures further enhance the magnificence of the Bosphorus and bear witness to the rich history of Istanbul.
These palaces are among the must-see structures for visitors to Istanbul, both historically and aesthetically fascinating.
How would you like to discover the traces of the past with a trip along the Bosphorus coast?