ISTANBUL DOLMABAHCE SARAYI
The Dolmabahçe Palace was built by the famous Armenian architect Garbert Amira Balya, at the request of Sultan Abdulmecid between the years 1848-1856. It is located in the districts of Besiktas and Kabatas in Istanbul. Ottoman Sultans had many palaces throughout history, but the main palace was the Topkapı Palace. However, Sultan Abdulmecid preferred a more modern place, and so the Topkapı Palace was abandoned after the completion of the Dolmabahçe Palace. It was the imperial residence for all subsequent Ottoman Sultans, with the exception of Abdülhamid II (1876-1909), who preferred to live in the more secluded Yıldız Palace.
The Dolmabahçe Palace is a three-story, symmetrically planned building, with 285 rooms and 43 halls. The exterior walls of the palace are made of limestone and the roof is covered with lead. The palace was used for administration of state and was where the sultan met with citizens on official business and his guests. The palace was also decorated with different colored marbles, and the interior and exterior sections were adorned with many different flowers. The interior adornments were created by French and Italian artists, with the decoration led by French artist M. Sechan. Due to these features, the palace’s interior has a resemblance to the French Palace of Versailles, and it shows the influence of the West on the Ottoman Empire. An apartment within the palace served as Atatürk’s residence in Istanbul and he died there on November 10, 1938.
SECTIONS OF DOLMABAHCE PALACE IN ISTANBUL
The tallest and most majestic hall in Dolmabahçe Palace is located between the Harem and Mabeyn Muayede sections. The main building of the palace is divided into three parts: the Harem, Mabeyn Muayede, and Harem-I Humayun.
BLUE HALL
The blue hall, also known as the ceremonial hall, was the place where the sultan met the public. It is located in the center of the Sultan’s Harem and is named “Blue” because of the use of blue colored ornaments, decorations, and marbles within that section.
SUFERA HALL
The Sufera Hall is one of the most luxurious areas in the palace. It boasts a magnificent decoration and has a symmetrical design feature. This hall was particularly used to welcome foreign guests, and it is also known as the Ambassador Hall.
THE PINK HALL
The Pink Hall, also known as the “Valide Sultan Divanhanesi” and “Balkonlu Sofa” in Turkish, was a place where the Sultana and other noble women would welcome special guests. The hall is covered by a large carpet called Hereke, and it also showcases two portraits of harem women painted by the famous French painter Pierre D’esire Guillemet, as well as a painting titled “Mayıs Gülleri” (May Flowers) by the artist Charlie Chaplin, who was popularly known as an actor of silent motion pictures.
ZULVECHEYN HALL
The Zulvecheyn Hall is a space that connects the interior and exterior parts of the palace. It was used for various ceremonies such as preaching, weddings, and other important events. The name “Zulvecheyn” means “two-sided” in Turkish referring to its function as a connecting space.
RED ROOM (THE MAIN ROOM)
The Red Room, also known as the main room, is named for its intense red color decorations, designs, and ornaments. The walls are covered with fabric and the ceiling is designed in a dome shape. The room also features gold leaf doors, red crystal chandeliers, and motifs of world maps.
THE LIBRARY
The library of Dolmabahçe Palace contains a diverse collection of books from the Ottoman period, as well as the time of Ataturk (the first president of the republic of Turkey) and Inönü (the second president of the republic). The library was built by Sultan Abdulmecid II and is known for its rich collection.
5 REASONS TO VISIT DOLMABAHCE PALACE IN ISTANBUL TURKEY
- Immerse yourself in history: Dolmabahçe Palace is a historical gem in Istanbul and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Sultans. Visitors can learn about the palace’s rich history, including its construction by famous Armenian architect Garbert Amira Balya, and its role as the imperial residence for all subsequent Ottoman Sultans.
- Take in the grandeur of the palace: The palace boasts a grand and symmetrical design with 285 rooms and 43 halls. The exterior walls are made of limestone and the roof is covered with lead. The palace was used for administration of state, and was where the sultan met with citizens on official business and his guests.
- Admire the palace’s intricate decorations: The palace is decorated with different colored marbles and adorned with many different flowers. The interior adornments were created by French and Italian artists, with the decoration led by French artist M. Sechan. The palace’s interior has a resemblance to the French Palace of Versailles, showing the influence of the West on the Ottoman Empire.
- Learn about Atatürk’s legacy: An apartment within the palace served as Atatürk’s residence in Istanbul, and he died there on November 10, 1938. Visitors can learn about his role as the first president of the republic of Turkey and his significant impact on the country.
- See the library: The library of Dolmabahçe Palace contains a diverse collection of books from the Ottoman period, as well as the time of Ataturk and Inönü. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Turkey by exploring the library’s rich collection.
Experience the grandeur and opulence of the Dolmabahçe Palace for yourself with Tour Maker Turkey. Our expertly crafted tours will take you on a journey through the palace’s rich history, showcasing its stunning architecture, intricate decorations, and more. Contact us today to book your tour!
