Zarif Mustafa Pasha Mansion

The building, where neoclassical style blends with traditional Ottoman architecture, has an elegant appearance that affects those passing by from the shore and those approaching by boat from the sea. Known as the second oldest mansion on the Asian side after the historical Amcazade Hüseyin Pasha Mansion, this residence is considered one of the most beautiful and valuable seaside mansions of the Bosphorus. Located right by the waters of the Bosphorus, the mansion contributes to the Istanbul silhouette like an elegant window opening to the past, with its wide facade shining in sunlight and its elaborately carved wooden windows.

History

It is estimated that the initial construction of the Zarif Mustafa Pasha Mansion dates back to the late 17th century or the 18th century; however, the structure gained its present magnificent form primarily through additions and restorations made in the 19th century. Zarif Mustafa Pasha, one of the prominent statesmen of the Ottoman Empire, acquired the mansion in 1848 for his family. Zarif Mustafa Pasha (1816-1861), the namesake of the mansion, was a statesman who held significant positions in the Ottoman bureaucracy, such as governorships and presidency of the military council. During Pasha's time, the mansion was a rather large complex consisting of sections such as the harem (family living area), selamlık (men's guest reception area), and mehtabiye pavilion. In fact, this extensive mansion complex by the shoreline was renowned for its magnificent bath and elegantly decorated rooms.

The mansion was used for a long time as the central residence of the pasha's family during the late Ottoman period and was preserved by the pasha's grandchildren. During the period of Osmanlı deputy Mehmet Esat Bey, the holy relic (a strand from the beard of Prophet Muhammad) located in the mansion was donated to the mosque in Anadolu Hisarı, and the building began to be referred to among the people as "Esat Bey Mansion." In 1926, the mansion was maintained and painted on the occasion of the wedding of Sadiye Hanım from the family; after the exterior was painted yellow, it gained the name "Yellow Mansion" (Sarı Köşk) among the locals. The building, officially declared and registered as a cultural asset in 1971, keeps the memories of a time span stretching from the Ottoman Empire to the Republic within its walls.

During the years of the War of Independence, when Istanbul was occupied by the Allied Powers, the sons of Esat Bey secretly sent weapons and ammunition to Anatolia by using the strategic position of this waterfront mansion. Concerned about the British soldiers confiscating the mansion, the family demolished the harem section of the building themselves during this period. By the time of the Republic, the Bosphorus had become an international waterway with the 1936 Montreux Convention, and ship traffic had increased. Due to the ever-growing ships, the Zarif Mustafa Pasha Mansion, like other structures along the Bosphorus, was subjected to various accidents. After undergoing extensive restoration in the 1970s, the mansion was unfortunately severely damaged in 1990 when it was struck by a city line ferry. After long legal proceedings, the family had to sell the mansion in 1992 to a Saudi Arabian investor (the energy minister of the time).

The structure, restored by new foreign owners, was transferred to the well-known Sabancı family in Turkey in 2001 and restored to its former glory. Today, the mansion, which is classified as private property, is meticulously preserved under the patronage of the Sabancı family and occasionally hosts important guests. The building still houses original spaces such as the historical Turkish bath, the mehtabiyé (moonlight viewing pavilion), the lemon room, and the coffee room, and it even features the closed pool that was used as a 'sea bath' for the women of the household in the past, now transformed into an aquarium with a glass floor. As one of the fortunate buildings along the Bosphorus, the Zarif Mustafa Pasha Mansion continues to adorn the Istanbul Bosphorus with its elegance and reflects its historical heritage.

Explore By Yacht

The most enjoyable way to experience such a magnificent mansion up close is to head out into the waters of the Bosphorus. Renting a yacht in the Bosphorus and admiring the mansion from the sea offers visitors a unique view. When you look at the Istanbul skyline from the boat, you have the opportunity to observe the stunning reflection of the Zarif Mustafa Pasha Mansion in the water and the surrounding historical texture uninterrupted. While gliding in the deep blue waters of the Bosphorus, you can also admire the detailed carvings, colorful facade decorations, and splendid garden layout of the mansion, even from a distance. This special experience, away from noise and crowds, provides the chance to take a close look at Istanbul's historical heritage as well as to feel the natural beauty of the Bosphorus.

By renting a yacht, you can explore the Bosphorus by determining your own route and pace. You have the freedom to stop at any desired point to take photos or enjoy the view, without being tied to the fixed routes of crowded tour boats. While sailing along the shores of Anadolu Hisarı, you will have the chance to see not only the elegant Mustafa Pasha Mansion but also the historic Amcazade Hüseyin Pasha Mansion nearby, the spot where Göksu Stream meets the Bosphorus, and the beauties of the Kanlıca coastline up close. While cruising in the comfort of your private yacht, accompanied by the breeze of the Bosphorus, you will witness the natural and cultural richness of this rare corner of Istanbul. By directing your Bosphorus tour with your chosen stops, you can experience the privilege of discovering the pearls of Istanbul.

We recommend you to not miss this unique experience: Rent a yacht on the Bosphorus for a journey that combines history with luxury. During your trip on your own yacht, you will feel like you are traveling through a time tunnel as you pass in front of the elegant Mustafa Pasha Mansion, greeting the nobility of the mansion with the cool waters of the Bosphorus. Whether you see the sparkling details in the sunlight during the day, or witness the fairytale atmosphere created by the reflections of the evening lights – watching this historical structure while on a yacht tour will add an unforgettable memory to your visit to Istanbul. Reserve your yacht now to freely experience the enchanting view of the Bosphorus with your loved ones and to take a close look at this cultural heritage in the heart of Istanbul.