Gulhane Park is located between Topkapi Palace and Sarayburnu in the Fatih district of Istanbul. It is an impressive and well-maintained spot that has seen a number of important events throughout its history. Back in the day, a monastery was located here, making it a holy place for the Byzantines. Before constructing the Mangana Palace, which was the residence of Byzantine Emperors a century ago, the Byzantines used Gulhane Park as a military post.
Following the conquest of Istanbul by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1453, Topkapi Palace and Incili Mansion were constructed in close proximity. Consequently, Gulhane Park, adjoining the Archaeological Museums complex, became the private garden of the sultans in that renowned Palace. To this day, the sweet aroma of the flowers planted there – roses, tulips, lilies, violets, and daisies – can still be detected, transporting you to a paradise upon entry.
The park where the Ottoman Empire took its first steps towards modernization is a fascinating location. The “Rescript of Gülhane” (Tanzimat Fermani in Turkish) was declared by foreign affairs minister, Mustafa Resit Pasha, on 3 October 1839, during the reign of Sultan Abdulmecid. Also known as the Gulhane Hatt-i Humayunu, this rescript had a tremendous impact.
Another significant development was the introduction of the Latin Alphabet to the public by the great leader Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first teacher and president of the Republic, in Gulhane Park, where the firsts were experienced. In addition to these features, Gulhane Park has aesthetic appeal with the statue of Asık Veysel, a famous and valuable bard of the Turkish people, and the Gotlar Column which dates back to Ancient Rome.
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GOTLAR COLUMN
Located in Gulhane Park, the Gotlar Column is thought to have been constructed in the 4th century in commemoration of a military victory over the Goths. Standing 15 meters high and carved from a single piece of stone, it is adorned with a Corinthian capital featuring an eagle relief. Gulhane Park is renowned in poetry and song; the renowned poet Nazim Hikmet famously wrote a poem named “Ceviz Agacı” (Walnut Tree) about the park. Visitors today can enjoy the unique landscape of the park from any of the numerous cafes, restaurants and tea houses surrounding it.
STATUE OF ASIK VEYSEL
The Statue of Asik Veysel stands in the center of Gulhane Park. Asik Veysel was a famous poet in Turkey and the statue was erected in his memory. The sculptor of the statue, Nejat Sirer, was commissioned by the Ministry of Culture to create a tribute to Asik Veysel. The statue is made of bronze and stands six meters tall, representing the large impact that Asik Veysel had on Turkish culture and literature.
CEVIZ AGACI
The walnut tree is a symbol of Gulhane Park. Poet Nazim Hikmet wrote a poem about it, and the tree continues to be a source of inspiration for locals and visitors alike. The tree stands tall and strong, a reminder of the history and beauty of the park. Its leaves provide much-needed shade on hot days and its walnuts are a favorite snack for children. Gulhane Park is a place of great historical significance and natural beauty. From the Gotlar Column to the Statue of Asik Veysel, this park is full of fascinating locations and stories.
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