Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace, located on the shores of the Bosphorus, is a symbol of the 19th century Ottoman Empire’s fascination with Europe and its changing political atmosphere. Built in 1843 by Sultan Abdülmecid and decorated with the most expensive materials brought from Europe throughout its 13-year construction period, the palace was designed to showcase the wealth and power of the empire.

A Palace in Western Style

Dolmabahçe Palace was inspired by the royal palaces of Europe. Combining Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical elements, the palace has 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 hamams and 68 toilets. The interior decoration of the palace includes gold leaf, crystal chandeliers, European furniture and expensive fabrics. This magnificent decoration clearly shows the break from the Ottoman palace tradition and the imitation of Europe.

A Symbol of Political Transformation

The construction of Dolmabahçe Palace coincided with the period when the Tanzimat Edict was proclaimed. During this period, the Ottoman Empire was trying to improve its relations with Europe and modernize. The palace was built as a symbol of this change and the policy of opening up to Europe.

Use in the Republican Period

Dolmabahçe Palace, which was also used for official ceremonies and state visits during the late Ottoman period, was turned into a museum in 1924 by the order of Atatürk. Today, Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most visited museums in Turkey, continues to exist as a monument reflecting the past’s grandeur and complexity.

The Importance of Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is an important structure not only in terms of architecture and history, but also reflecting the political and cultural transformation of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. The grandeur of the palace and the tendency to imitate Europe reveal the contradictions and complexities of the empire’s modernization efforts.

Visiting Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. The palace is open to visitors every day and guided tours are available. The palace garden is also a perfect place for a pleasant walk.

Information about Dolmabahçe Palace

• Address: Dolmabahçe Caddesi, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
• Transportation: You can reach Dolmabahçe Palace by tram, bus or ferry.
• Visiting Hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (Every day)
• Entrance Fee: For 2024, the full ticket is 40 €