The Yağlıkçı Hacı Reşit Bey Mansion, located on the Kanlıca coast, is a magnificent Ottoman mansion that immediately catches the attention of those passing through the Bosphorus.
The traditional wooden architecture of the villa located by the sea, despite its simplicity, presents an impressive appearance. This historical villa, resembling a painting along with the green Mihrabat Hill behind it, reflects on the blue waters of the Bosphorus, creating an impressive view. Together with the nearby Princess Rukiye Villa, this structure completes the historical texture of the Kanlıca coast and is one of the rare examples that brings the elegant lifestyle of 19th century Istanbul to the present day.
History
The Mansion of Yağlıkçı Hacı Reşit Bey was built by Hacı Reşit Bey in the mid-19th century (in the 1850s) during the Ottoman period. Hacı Reşit Bey was known by the nickname "yağlıkçı" because he was a women's clothing manufacturer; in the past, those who produced women's clothing such as handkerchiefs, underwear, and wedding dresses were referred to as yağlıkçı. The yalı was initially a large mansion with extensive gardens, a grand boathouse (boat house) with a pool, and outbuildings (servant quarters). Over time, renovations and changes of ownership have led to some alterations in the structure; for instance, the outbuilding that belonged to the yalı was separated and is now used as an independent yalı. This magnificent seaside mansion is also known among the public as Muammer Bey Yalı, a name derived from Hacı Reşit Bey's grandson, Muammer Bey.
After the death of Hacı Reşit Bey, the mansion remained the property of his wife and children for a while, and was later sold outside the family. After the death of Reşit Bey's grandson, Muammer Bey, the mansion was divided into four apartments by adding internal walls and has been used as an apartment since then. The mansion, which is registered as a historical site, was protected by the Real Estate Antiquities Council in 1971. In the 1980s, it underwent extensive restoration by its then-owner, Barlas Turan, returning it to its former glory. Despite the repairs it has undergone, the building has largely managed to preserve its original architectural character as one of the rare waterfront mansions in the Bosphorus. Currently classified as private property, this mansion is registered as a first-degree historical artifact and is among the structures under protection. This elegant mansion, visible from the outside, continues to exist as a vibrant part of the cultural heritage of the Istanbul Bosphorus.
Explore By Yacht
One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the unique beauties of the Istanbul Bosphorus is by renting a yacht. As you approach the Kanlıca cove on a private yacht, you can see the Yağlıkçı Hacı Reşit Bey Mansion in all its glory from the sea. Observing this historic mansion rising from the waters of the Bosphorus will help you notice details that are not visible from land. While watching the silhouette of the mansion reflected on the water and the harmony it creates with the surrounding greenery, your Bosphorus tour will become even more unforgettable.
If you want to experience these historical structures along the shores of Kanlıca from the best angle, you need to
rented a yacht. By renting a yacht, you can enjoy the freedom to create your own itinerary and take a trip away from the crowds. Gliding close to the shore with your yacht, you can closely see both this magnificent mansion and other Ottoman heritage structures around it. For example, the Princess Rukiye Mansion, located right next to it, reveals its beauty when viewed from the sea – this elegant mansion, gifted to Princess Rukiye, the daughter of the Governor of Egypt Abbas Halim Pasha, also bears the marks of the same era. You can take photos of these historic buildings without getting off the yacht, and if you have a guide, you can embark on a cultural journey by listening to their stories.
Every hour of the day, a yacht tour on the Bosphorus has its own unique flavor, but especially in the evening hours, the view of the Kanlıca shores is enchanting. Gliding past this waterfront estate with the cool breeze of the Bosphorus and the reflections of lights in the waters is a true Istanbul experience. In fact, during full moon periods, you should rent a yacht, because the moonlight reflecting from Mihrabat Hill behind you offers one of the most beautiful night views of the Bosphorus. With this special Bosphorus tour on your own yacht, you will fully experience the historical atmosphere offered by the Yağlıkçı Hacı Reşit Bey Mansion and its surroundings, creating an unforgettable memory from your trip to Istanbul.