Beylerbeyi Palace History and Travel Guide: A Timeless Ottoman Gem in Istanbul
Beylerbeyi Palace is located on the shores of the Bosphorus in the Beylerbeyi neighbourhood of the Üsküdar district of Istanbul. It was built by Sultan Abdülaziz between 1861 and 1865 by the famous architect Sarkis Balyan. This elegant structure, built on the seafront, has three additional mansions. These pavilions, which add authenticity to the palace, are known as the Yellow Pavilion, the Marble Pavilion and the Barn Pavilion. In addition to the mansions that attract attention with their eye-catching architecture, there is also a fascinating garden inside the palace.
So, where is Beylerbeyi Palace? And how to visit Beylerbeyi Palace there?
Here is a comprehensive guide full of historical and architectural details of Beylerbeyi Palace...
History of Beylerbeyi Palace
Beylerbeyi Palace was built during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz to host foreign heads of state and monarchs. Its construction started on August 6, 1863, and it was opened for use with a magnificent ceremony held on April 21, 1865.
Those who know Sultan Abdülaziz's passion for the sea can easily recognise how this passion is reflected in this building. Seascapes and depictions of ships can be seen in the frames and cartouches on the ceilings of the palace.
Beylerbeyi Palace, which maintained its importance during the Republican period, continued to be one of the distinguished buildings where foreign guests were hosted.
Architectural Features of Beylerbeyi Palace
Beylerbeyi Palace, a two-storey courtyard building set on a high basement, covers an area of approximately 2,500 square metres. The southern section of the palace was organised as the Mabeyn-i Hümâyun, while the northern section is designated as the Valide Sultan Apartment.
The palace's architecture is an elegant blend of Western and Eastern styles. It encompasses 6 halls, 24 rooms, 1 bath, and 1 bathroom. The harem and mabeyn sections showcase characteristics typical of traditional Ottoman residential architecture.
The palace was specifically designed to accommodate foreign heads of state and high-level guests. For this reason, it includes areas such as special guest rooms, meeting rooms, and a guest house. One of the most remarkable spaces is the magnificent banquet hall, where sumptuous meals are served.
Among the palace's most impressive features is its location. Situated in one of the most beautiful spots along the Bosphorus, the building offers views of the Bosphorus Bridge and the Anatolian Fortress. Fountains, pools, and expansive green areas in the gardens provide visitors with a tranquil atmosphere.
Pavilions and Gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace
Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the shores of the Bosphorus with a unique view, draws attention with its pavilions and gardens. Let's get to know these three special mansions and the palace garden closely:
The Marble Pavilion
It was built between 1829-1832 by Sultan Mahmud II as a hunting pavilion. There is a pool and a fountain inside. The name of the pavilion comes from the marble used on its exterior.
The Yellow Pavilion
It is located near the Marble Pavilion. The Yellow Pavilion leans against the forested area on one side and has an open view on the other side.
The Barn Pavilion
It is located beyond the Marble Pavilion, on the last wall of the palace garden. It has details reflecting the importance given to horse culture in the Ottoman Empire. The ceilings of the entrance section feature horse and various animal figures. The stable section consists of 20 separate sections on each side.
The Palace Gardens
These gardens, which were of great importance at the time they were built, extend upwards from the palace. The surviving part of these green areas, which are connected to each other by stairs and ramps, is an area of approximately 70 acres.
General Information About Beylerbeyi Palace
Beylerbeyi Palace is one of the most striking examples of Ottoman architecture. The 3-storey building has 24 rooms and the interiors are decorated with frescoes, gold leaf embroidery and exquisite craftsmanship.
Architectural Style:
Ottoman Architecture
Baroque Architecture
Neo-Baroque
Architecture of the Second Empire
Address:
Beylerbeyi, Beylerbeyi Junction, 34676 Üsküdar/Istanbul
Ticket Prices:
Local Visitor Ticket Price: 150 TL
Foreign Visitor Ticket Price: 600 TL
Discounted Ticket Price: 75 TL
Garden Ticket Price: 50 TL
Visiting Hours
Opening: 09:00
Closing: 18:00
Box Office Opening: 09:00
Box Office Closing: 17:30
Last Exit: 18:00
Closed on Mondays.
Contact Number: (0216) 321 93 20
Architect: Sarkis Balyan
How to get to Beylerbeyi Palace?
Beylerbeyi Palace, located in Üsküdar district on the Asian side of Istanbul, is very easy to reach.
From the Anatolian Side:
You can reach by buses departing from Kadıköy Dock.
You can get there by buses departing from near the Üsküdar Ferry Pier.
From the European Side:
You can get to Üsküdar by sea boat or ferry and then transfer to the palace from there.
Beylerbeyi Palace Visitor Reviews
Beylerbeyi Palace through the eyes of visitors:
'It is a magnificent Ottoman palace in terms of location and visuals. It is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the city, and the blend of European and Ottoman architecture adds extra beauty. The palace was built by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1861-1865 by architect Sarkis Balyan. There are 5 mansions in the garden, but these mansions are closed to visitors due to renovations. There is also a small bamboo forest in the garden. There are toilets at the entrance. There is also a cafeteria in the garden. Photography and video shooting are forbidden inside the palace. You can take great shots in the garden with a view of the bridge and the Bosphorus. There are two doors leading to the sea; you can go to the seaside and take photos, and watch the ships passing through the Bosphorus. Visiting hours are between 09.00-17.30. The Museum Card is valid. As far as I know, you can also get a Museum Card here, but it is better to check the official websites before you go. If you want to visit quickly, you could spend 1 hour on average, if you want to visit in detail, you could spend 2 hours.'
'It is a small palace, 20 minutes is enough to visit. The bamboo area and the tea garden are very pleasant. It's a child-friendly place.'
'The view and interior decoration are really impressive. The Museum Card is valid.'
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