tags: Beylerbeyi Palace

Beylerbeyi Palace and Its Surroundings

a magnificent structure that reflects the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire

Beylerbeyi Palace and Its Surroundings

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus on Istanbul’s Asian side, Beylerbeyi Palace is a magnificent structure that reflects the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. With its unique architecture and historical ambiance, the palace takes visitors on a journey back in time, boasting a rich history that dates back to the Byzantine era.

History

The site of Beylerbeyi Palace has been used as a residential area since the Byzantine period. Over time, various structures were built here, but the foundations of the current palace were laid during the reign of Sultan Mahmud II. After a wooden palace built in this area was destroyed by fire, Sultan Abdulaziz commissioned the construction of the present stone structure between 1863 and 1865. This new palace was designed as a summer residence and stands as a masterpiece that reflects the architectural style of its time.

Palace Complex

Beylerbeyi Palace is not limited to its main building; the complex also includes several important auxiliary structures and arrangements:

• Mabeyn and Harem Sections: The palace’s two main sections; the Mabeyn was used for state affairs, while the Harem was reserved for the private life of the sultan.
• Seaside Pavilions: Located on the Bosphorus shore, offering guests a cool retreat.
• Tunnel: Built between 1829 and 1832 during the reign of Sultan Mahmud II, the tunnel historically connected Üsküdar and Beylerbeyi. Today, it serves as a venue for cultural events.
• Stable Pavilion: Constructed to house the sultan’s royal horses.

Purpose

Beylerbeyi Palace was primarily used as a summer residence, but it also served as a guesthouse for hosting foreign dignitaries. Notable guests included Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph, French Empress Eugénie, Montenegrin Prince Nikola, and German Emperor Wilhelm II.

The palace is also significant for being the place where Sultan Abdulhamid II spent the last six years of his life after being deposed. He passed away here in 1918.

Architectural Features

Beylerbeyi Palace combines Western and Eastern architectural styles in a harmonious design. Its interior layout resembles that of traditional Turkish houses, while its decorations showcase the finest craftsmanship and materials of its time.

• Decorative Features:
  • Flooring made of mats imported from Egypt
  • Turkish Hereke carpets
  • French Baccarat crystal chandeliers
  • Chinese, Japanese, French, German, and Turkish Yıldız porcelain vases
  • Clocks crafted in the Haliç Shipyard and by French and British artisans

The ceilings and walls of the palace are adorned with calligraphy by the renowned Ottoman calligrapher Abdülfettâh Efendi. The inscriptions include verses from the Qur’an, couplets praising justice, and excerpts from Kaside-i Bürde (The Ode of the Mantle), creating a unique and artistic ambiance.

Republican Era

After the proclamation of the Republic, restoration efforts began in 1951. During this process, the palace’s historical inscriptions were restored by one of the era’s most prominent calligraphers, Hamid Aytaç.

Auxiliary Structures and Gardens

Marble Pavilion
Built between 1829 and 1831 during Sultan Mahmud II’s reign, the Marble Pavilion served as a hunting lodge. Its exterior is covered with marble, which gives the structure its name. Inside, there is a fountain and a decorative water basin.

Yellow Pavilion
Located near the Marble Pavilion, the Yellow Pavilion is a two-story structure that reflects the architectural and decorative styles of its period.

Palace Gardens
The gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace are a fine example of 19th-century prestige landscaping. Covering an area of approximately 70,000 square meters, the gardens are adorned with magnolia, chestnut, linden, and Judas trees, adding to the palace’s serene beauty.

Visitor Information

Visiting Days and Hours

• Open Days: Every day except Monday
• Visiting Hours:
  • November-March: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
  • April-October: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visitor Rules

• Photography and video recording are prohibited inside the palace.
• Visitors are not allowed to touch any objects during the tour.
• Groups with reservations are given priority.
• School groups must make reservations in advance.

Beylerbeyi Palace is an exceptional example of Ottoman architecture and culture. Located on the scenic shores of the Bosphorus, this magnificent palace offers visitors a tranquil environment along with a glimpse into the splendor of the Ottoman era. It is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.

Fri, Nov 22, 2024 2:39 PM

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