IHLAMUR KASRI – ISTANBUL IHLAMUR PAVILION

Built by the renowned architect Nikogos Balyan between 1849 and 1855, upon the order of the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid, Ihlamur Pavilion is located in Ihlamur Promenade (known as Mesire in Turkish) in the district of Besiktas in Istanbul. The area was once filled with Ihlamur (lime) Trees, which is where its name derives from.

HISTORY OF IHLAMUR PAVILION

At the start, Hacı Hüseyin Aga owned several vineyards. However, when the place was taken over by the government, the vineyard field was used as Has Bahçe (Sultan’s Garden) and safeguarded. In addition, a wooden mansion was constructed to serve as a resting place and host the Sultans and members of the upper class. For example, Ottoman Sultans such as Abdulhamid I, Selim III, Mahmut II, and Abdulmecid used the structure for relaxation after riding horses and shooting arrows. It was even visited by the renowned French poet Lamartine. Additionally, Sultan Mehmet Resat V received the kings of Bulgaria and Serbia there. Subsequently, the lavish building was demolished by the order of Sultan Abdulmecid. In its place, he built two mansions on Ihlamur Promade, also known as Nüzhetiye Pavilion. They were called Maiyet and Merasim Kiosk.

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IHLAMUR PAVILION KIOSKS AND ARCHITECTURE

The Maiyet Kiosk, the simpler of the two, was used by the sultan’s family members and entourage, and today, it serves as a beautiful cafeteria. It is known that the mansion was particularly visited by women, while the Merasim Kiosk was used for ceremonies. The Merasim Kiosk was adorned with Baroque-style carvings, and the ceiling was covered with landscape paintings. The porcelain ornaments that decorate the fireplace are the work of Yıdız Oven. The kiosk is further embellished with crystal chandeliers, European-style furniture, Hereke carpets, and decorated vases.

Three pools, a water gauge, a well, illumination materials, and valuable trees, cover an area of 27.722 m2. In addition, the buildings consist of two storeys with a rectangular design, a salon, and rooms that reflect wealth and grace.

The pavilion was given to TBMM (Turkish Grand National Assembly) in 1924 in accordance with the law no.431. But then, it was assigned by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality in 1951. After the renovations, it was opened to public in 1952;  the name of Merasim Pavilion was changed as Kiosk Historic Museum while the other as Tanzimat Museum. But later on, it was again allocated to TBMM, and the charming museum was used as child art performance field.

TOP 5 REASONS TO VISIT IHLAMUR KASRI IN ISTANBUL TURKEY

  1. Rich history: Ihlamur Kasri in Istanbul, Turkey was built by the renowned architect Nikogos Balyan between 1849 and 1855, upon the order of the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecid. It has served as a resting place and host to the Ottoman Sultans and members of the upper class. Visiting the pavilion is a step back in time to experience the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
  2. Stunning architecture: The pavilion boasts of beautiful Baroque-style carvings, landscape paintings, porcelain ornaments, crystal chandeliers, European-style furniture, Hereke carpets and decorated vases. The combination of these details creates a stunning and graceful building that truly embodies the wealth of the Ottoman Empire.
  3. Beautiful surroundings: Istanbul Ihlamur Pavilion is located in Ihlamur Promenade, also known as Mesire, in the district of Besiktas in Istanbul. The area was once filled with Ihlamur trees, and its surroundings are just as beautiful as the pavilion itself. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature while also experiencing the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
  4. Cultural significance: Ihlamur Kasri was visited by the French poet Lamartine, and was used to receive the kings of Bulgaria and Serbia. Today, it serves as a child art performance field, making it a cultural hub that brings together people of all ages to enjoy and appreciate the arts.
  5. Unique experience: Visiting Ihlamur Pavilion in Istanbul is a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful surroundings, cultural significance, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visit Ihlamur Kasri with Tour Maker Turkey and experience the rich history and stunning beauty of Istanbul, Turkey. Our tours provide a comprehensive and personalized experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful and historically significant places in Istanbul!