Dolmabahce Palace

Tucked within the premises of the Dolmabahçe Palace, Mabeyn-i Humayun offers more than just architectural splendour; it's a heartfelt ode to an empire's golden days. As you step inside, the Medhal Salon warmly welcomes you, much like it once did for royal guests. Your eyes might catch the shimmering Crystal Stairs, not just steps, but a bridge leading to stories of opulence. While walking, you might feel the whispers of bygone diplomatic conversations, especially around the Sufera Salon and the luxurious Red Room. Venturing upwards, the Zulvecheyn Hall subtly invites you to the Sultan’s private world within Mabeyn-i Humayun.

Here, amidst the grandeur, one can sense the Sultan's moments of solitude, perhaps in the ornate baths or the quiet study rooms.

Upon heading towards the Selamlik's western entrance, the meticulously curated garden seems to nod in acknowledgement of the past's design excellence. As you wander, each chamber, especially the ambassadorial hall, feels like a bookmark in the palace's grand storybook. Close by, the sunlit Crystal Staircase and spaces like the Men's Mounting Chamber stitch together vistas of serene gardens and the timeless Bosphorus. It's more than just architecture; it's an embrace of history, waiting to share tales of yesteryears.

Within the expansive grounds of Dolmabahçe Palace Istanbul lies the Muayede, a testament to the pinnacle of Ottoman architectural prowess. Positioned strategically between the Harem and Mabeyn-i Humayun, this section boasts a grandeur that captivates visitors instantly. Covering over 2,000 square metres and with a staggering 36-metre-high ceiling, it is further enhanced by the presence of 56 imposing columns.

One can't help but be drawn to the 4.5-ton crystal chandelier, a generous gift from Queen Victoria, which hangs dominantly from the ceiling. Beneath it, a vast Hereke carpet adds to the room's opulence. The Muayede wasn't just for show; it was the very heart of important state and religious ceremonies. To facilitate dignitaries, a sea gate was strategically placed, allowing them to arrive by water, adding another layer to the ceremony's exclusivity. 

Overlooking the hall, the upper galleries had their own tale to tell. These were reserved for foreign ambassadors and, on special occasions, the palace orchestra. Ingeniously, the hall had a state-of-the-art heating system beneath its columns, ensuring a warm ambience even on the chilliest days. This space truly came alive when the golden throne was ushered in, serving as the sultan's seat during significant celebrations.

Home to the rarest plants bought from the continents of Asia, America, and Europe, the gardens of the Dolmabahce Palace are one of the most beautiful sights to see. Hasbahce is the largest one out of the fabulous four gardens of the palace consisting of the enchanting swan-shaped fountain and beautiful walkways. The Turkish-style built Bird garden is home to a variety of plants with a pool in the middle mimicking the Turkish character of the gardens. The other two gardens of the Harem, built-in European style and the Crown Garden connecting the Crown House are magnificent enough to grab your attention.

Named for its predominant red embellishments, the Red Room in Dolmabahce Palace is a feast for the eyes. The room is adorned with the monogram of Sultan Abdülmecid, a central figure in Ottoman history, gracing a Boulle desk and a fireplace. The gold leaf gates mark the entrance to this magnificent room, opening up to an interior highlighted by world atlas motifs. The red glass lustres and the stunning English chandelier further enhance the room's enchanting ambience. Each artefact and design element in the Red Room beautifully combines Ottoman heritage with European influences.

Situated in the middle of the Sultan's harem, the Blue Hall, also known as the Blue Room, exudes a striking display of ceremonial grandeur. Its distinctive blue hues are visible in decorations, paintings, and marble, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. Once a meeting spot for the Sultan and his subjects, this room encapsulates the essence of the palace's historical significance and cultural heritage. The interior showcases an exquisite array of artifacts and works of art, including ornate mirrors, golden doorways, and intricate frescoes, all embodying the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire.

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Known as 'Valide Sultan Divanhanesi,' or the Queen Mother's Reception Room, the Pink Hall once welcomed noble female visitors. This intimate space is entirely covered with a traditional Hereke rug, a fine example of Ottoman weaving craftsmanship, enhancing its regal charm. The walls and ceiling are adorned with beautiful paintings reflecting the cultural aesthetics of the Ottoman era. Its royal ambience, paired with soft pink hues and warm lighting, lets you imagine the splendid gatherings of yesteryears, where the ladies of the court engaged in their own intricate power dynamics.

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Zulvecheyn Hall, or 'Two Sword Hall', serves as an essential link between the palace's interior and exterior, connecting the harem to the Selamlik, the sultan's apartments. From religious preaching to marriage rituals, and from holidays to significant public events, Zulvecheyn Hall has been a witness to numerous historical functions. This hall is characterized by its domed ceiling and large windows that offer splendid views of the Bosporus. The exquisite artwork and designs on the walls and ceiling tell countless tales, each contributing to the hall's rich cultural tapestry.

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Dolmabahce Palace Sufera Hall, also known as Ambassador Hall, is a Heritage to royal elegance. This room is characterized by its opulent gold decorations and striking bohemian chandeliers, reflecting the sultan's penchant for European aesthetics. The hall was once the stage where sultans entertained important guests, showcasing the empire's prosperity and grandeur. It is adorned with priceless artwork, intricate designs, and ornate furnishings, demonstrating a unique fusion of Ottoman and European influences. Each visit to the Sufera Hall is like a journey back in time, all the way back to the opulent Ottoman era.

The main visit to the Dolmabahce Palace starts at the beginning of the Medhal Hall or Main entrance. Having sea-facing rooms, the hall was used by leading Ottoman officials such as the Grand Vizir. The other land-facing rooms were used by the members of the Senate and House of Representatives. The guided tour takes you inside to witness the Royal monogram of Sultan Abdulmecit on the top along with Boulle tables on either side, and an elegant sixty-armed English Chandelier to catch your attention.

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The second room to explore after the Medal is the Secretariat’s room decorated with French-style furniture. The moment you enter the huge painting of Surre Procession by Stefano Uss on the left wall catches your eye. The right wall has foreign paintings of the fire at Paris Municipal Theatre signed by Rudolf Ernst and Delandre’s infamous Dutch Village Girl.

During your visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, there's one room that resonates deeply with many: "Atatürk's Room." It's a space infused with the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the visionary behind modern Turkey. As you meander through, you can't help but sense the gravity of the room where, on November 10, 1938, at 9:05 A.M., Atatürk passed away. A touching nod to that exact moment, the clock in the room remains set at 9:05, offering a silent contrast to the other timekeepers in the palace that move with the present.

Not too long ago, this room underwent a thoughtful restoration. Guided by the National Palaces Presidency, efforts concentrated on Room 71, cherishing its historical and sentimental essence. The restoration team, with their gentle touch, embarked on a journey to rejuvenate the room. They meticulously cleaned and addressed signs of age, like cracks and worn-out paint. Their commitment shone through, especially in their intricate attention to the room's architectural nuances, including the flooring, doors, and windows. Now, when visitors wander into Atatürk's Room, they are embraced by a piece of history, a tribute to a great leader, and a testament to Turkey's dedication to cherishing its past.

When you enter the Dolmabahçe Palace, there's an intimate space, the "Harem", that feels like peeling back the pages of a cherished family album. It's where the sultan and his family once laughed, shared stories, and lived away from the public eye. This harem blends the heart of Ottoman traditions with European architectural touches, creating a unique harmony that’s both nostalgic and inspiring.

As you wander, you'll find yourself in the embrace of the Harem-i Humayun. It isn't just rooms and hallways; it's where love stories blossomed and children played. Here, young royals learned life's lessons, surrounded by intricate rugs, kilims, and heirloom furniture. The Blue and Pink Halls, drenched in colours and adorned with details, feel like the heartbeat of this space. Especially the Blue Hall - it’s like standing in the midst of a vibrant dream, with colours dancing in from the sparkling Bosphorus waters.

Nearby, almost playing hide and seek, is The Palace of the Crown Prince. Even though a wall divides them, from the shimmering Bosphorus, it feels like a natural continuation of the palace. Each nook of the harem seems to hum with stories of days gone by, a blend of grandeur and warm family moments.

Sultan Abdul Hamid II made a significant addition to the palace grounds by commissioning the construction of the Clock Tower in Dolmabahce Palace. Built in a neo-baroque style by architect Sarkis Balyan, this four-sided structure stands as a timeless beauty. The original timepiece has been replaced by an electric one, but the charm of the tower remains intact. It features four floors and a unique central dome, each element revealing a meticulous design. The tower's balconies offer breathtaking views of the palace gardens and the Bosporus, adding to the visitor's overall experience.

Dolmabahçe Mosque, situated alongside Dolmabahçe Palace, showcases an architectural blend that diverges from the classical Ottoman design. Embodying rich rococo and baroque ornamentation, this mosque is akin to a lavishly decorated palace hall rather than just a place of worship. Constructed on the shoreline, it effortlessly harmonises with its regal neighbour, the Dolmabahçe Palace.

Commissioned initially by Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan, Sultan Abdulmecid's mother, the mosque's construction was continued by the Sultan himself upon her passing. Architect Karabet Balyan masterfully finished the Dolmabahçe Mosque in 1855, marking it as an iconic representation of 19th-century Ottoman mosques. With its precise 25 x 25 m base, the mosque exhibits a distinctive geometric structure. It encapsulates a two-storey royalty section and spaces specially designed for state officials and the Sultan's public appearances.

Distinctive features of the Dolmabahçe Mosque include its two minarets, each adorned with a single balcony, and a singular dome poised elegantly over a square foundation. Stepping inside, visitors are welcomed by an interplay of ampere and baroque styles. The radiant light streaming through vast windows accentuates the mosque's opulent marble interiors. Furthermore, its red porphyry mimbar (pulpit) and mihrab (niche) are adorned with intricate European patterns, echoing the fusion of cultures that the mosque represents.

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Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid II, the library within Dolmabahçe Palace houses a vast collection of books from the Ottoman and Ataturk eras. The shelves are lined with thousands of volumes in Ottoman Turkish, Arabic, Persian, French, English, and German, covering a wide range of subjects, including law, philosophy, art, and history. The library's interior is characterized by its wooden panels and stained glass windows, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The library provides literature enthusiasts and history buffs with a unique opportunity to delve into the intellectual pursuits of the Ottoman Empire, making it an important cultural heritage site.

Dolmabahçe Palace boasts eight gates, three of which open directly to the beautiful Bosporus, offering picturesque views of the sea. The grandest of these is the Saltanat Kapisi, or Sultan's Gate, opening onto the central garden. The gates of Dolmabahce Palace are uniquely designed, which are important architectural features adding to the palace's charm. They are adorned with intricate motifs, and ornamental lanterns, and topped with the tughra (the sultan's calligraphic monogram), symbolizing the power and prestige of the Sultan. Each gate has a unique story, bearing silent testimony to the countless historical events they have witnessed over time.

Dolmabahçe Palace's architecture is a unique blend of Baroque, Rococo, and neoclassical styles, infused with traditional Ottoman elements, giving it a distinct aesthetic appeal. This fusion represents the Ottoman Empire's eagerness to embrace European influences while preserving its cultural heritage. As visitors traverse through the palace, they experience the intriguing architectural evolution, witnessed in the distinct features of each room and hall. The combination of towering domes, high arches, spacious courtyards, and ornate details lends an overwhelming sense of grandeur to the palace, making it a significant architectural marvel of its time.

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Within the opulent confines of Dolmabahçe Palace, the decor stands as a mesmerising testament to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, blending seamlessly with European influences. As visitors journey through the palace, they're greeted by vast expanses gilded with gold - a staggering fourteen tonnes to be precise. In the Ceremonial Hall, eyes are inevitably drawn to the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a masterpiece weighing 4.5 tonnes with 750 gleaming lamps. The palace also boasts an unparalleled collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers. The renowned Crystal Staircase, with its Baccarat crystal and brass structure, showcases architectural prowess.

Dolmabahçe Palace doesn't just limit its splendour to crystals and gold. Visitors will be enamoured by the rich tapestry of Hereke palace carpets, including the world's largest Hereke rug. Prestigious stones, from Marmara marble to Egyptian alabaster, embellish various sections. The art enthusiasts won't be disappointed either, with a diverse collection of 202 oil paintings, including works by acclaimed artists like Ivan Aivazovsky and Jean-Léon Gérôme. Furthermore, Dolmabahçe Palace was ahead of its time in terms of amenities. Equipped with modern innovations like gas lighting, water closets, electricity, and even a central heating system, it showcased a fusion of tradition with modernity.

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A Topkapi Palace sits near Dolmabahçe. It was the administrative hub and residence of Ottoman Sultans. Here, you can explore its four main courtyards and several smaller buildings, revealing history in layers. The palace houses an impressive collection of porcelain, robes, weapons, shields, armour, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts, and murals. Its treasury contains Ottoman jewels and the famous Topkapi Dagger. The palace's picturesque location offers stunning views of the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and Golden Horn.

Galata Tower, a Romanesque-style cylindrical tower built in 1348, stands 66.9 meters tall. It's made of ashlar, a finely cut stone, giving it a robust and distinctive appearance, and stands tall as a symbol of Istanbul’s rich history. The tower once hosted Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi, a legendary man reputed to have flown across the Bosphorus. You can explore its nine-story structure and capture 360-degree breathtaking cityscape views from the balcony at the top.

A marvel of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia near Dolmabahçe is one of the world's most significant cultural and architectural landmarks. It was constructed in 537 AD during Emperor Justinian I's reign, was the world's largest cathedral for a thousand years. Over the centuries, it has served as an Orthodox cathedral, a mosque, and now, a museum. Inside the Hagia Sophia, you can see Islamic calligraphy alongside Christian mosaics, a Heritage to Istanbul's layered history. Its dome considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture, stands as a lasting symbol of harmonious interaction between cultures.

Built between 1609 and 1616 during Sultan Ahmet I's rule, the Blue Mosque is a classic example of Ottoman architecture. Also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a visual feast with its cascading domes and six slender minarets. Its interior is a riot of over 20,000 Iznik tiles, creating a blue ambience that gave the mosque its name. The Blue Mosque's architecture incorporates a stunning array of 260 windows, which serve to amplify the mosque's luminosity and enhance its overall aesthetic appeal.The mosque still serves as a place of worship, blending spiritual significance with architectural splendour.