Everything About Dolmabahce Palace, the Last Legacy of the Ottomans

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the last structures built by the Ottoman Empire in Istanbul, drawing inspiration from Western architecture. It stands as one of the most beautiful historical buildings in the city. If you are passionate about exploring historical sites in Istanbul, we highly recommend visiting Dolmabahçe Palace. It offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about the final period of Ottoman rule and the establishment of modern Turkey. In this article, you will discover more about Dolmabahçe Palace, its visiting hours, architectural features, and the fascinating stories surrounding it. Stay with us!

Where is Dolmabahce Palace?

Dolmabahce Palace is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, in a neighbourhood called Vişnezade. It is situated on one of the city's most stunning coastlines, overlooking the Bosphorus Strait. This Ottoman palace was built on the European side of Istanbul, and the route leading to it is both scenic and beautiful.

How to Get to Dolmabahce Palace from Taksim?

Dolmabahce Palace is only 1.5 kilometers from Taksim, and it can be reached on foot in about 20 minutes. Other ways to get there include taking a bus, which will get you to the palace in less than 5 minutes. Bus stops are near Beşiktaş, and the buses stop close to the palace.

Additionally, the M7 metro line provides access to Dolmabahce through Kabataş Station.

Another option is the sea route—simply head to Kadıköy or Üsküdar and take a Beşiktaş ferry to reach the palace.

A Brief History of Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace was commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid, the 31st Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, in 1843 Interestingly, it took over 13 years to complete. The aim was to modernize the Ottoman state by incorporating Western architectural styles.

The name Dolmabahce in Turkish means "filled garden", referring to the fact that the palace grounds were once a bay that was later filled in to create a solid foundation for construction.

 Garabet Balyan and his son Nigoğayos Balyan, renowned Armenian architects of the Ottoman era, designed and constructed this palace.

During the Ottoman period, Dolmabahce Palace served as a government centre. Later, Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, spent his final years in this palace and passed away in one of its rooms. Today, Dolmabahce Palace and its gardens have been transformed into a museum, allowing visitors to explore its priceless artefacts and gain insights into the Ottoman Empire's secrets and lifestyle. In the article Attractions in Istanbul you can learn about the city's sightseeing spots.Top of Form

The Stunning Opulence of Dolmabahce Pala

Ottoman architecture was initially influenced by Eastern culture, but towards the end of the empire, it shifted towards Western architecture. Dolmabahce Palace differs in design from earlier Ottoman structures, incorporating symmetry principles in its interior design.

You may find it fascinating that this palace symbolises the legendary wealth of the Ottoman Empire. As you explore its magnificent halls, you will witness the glittering gold, silver, diamonds, crystal, and brilliants adorning various palace sections.

The construction of this palace was so extravagantly costly that it hurt the Ottoman economy.

Different Sections of Dolmabahce Palace

This palace is divided into three main sections, which include:

• Harem (Private Quarters)

The Sultan, his family, wives, and servants lived in this section. Along its long corridors were rooms where the Sultan's wives resided.

• Selamlık (Administrative Hall)

The Selamlık served as the administrative section of the palace, where official meetings were held and high-ranking officials gathered. It is considered one of the most magnificent parts of the palace.

• Ceremonial Hall

The Ceremonial Hall features a 4.5-ton chandelier with 750 lamps and was used for lavish celebrations, dances, and grand ceremonies.

Interesting Facts About Dolmabahce Palace

·         This palace was built on a 250,000-square-meter plot, making it one of the largest structures in history. It stretches 600 meters along the waterfront and has 43 halls, four floors, and 285 rooms.

·         The Grand Ceremonial Hall, supported by 56 columns, is one of the largest reception halls in the world. A 4.5-ton chandelier hangs from its ceiling.

·         The Harem section of the palace contains six baths adorned with alabaster marble, (a natural stone known for its stunning, translucent, and delicate appearance).

·         The furniture and objects inside the palace reflect a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures.

·         Some of the notable sections of Dolmabahce Palace include the Selamlık (Administrative Hall), Harem, Zulvücehin, Pink Hall, Clock Museum, Atatürk's Private Room, Glass Pavilion, Library, Painting Museum, Gardens, Entrance Hall, Ministers' Room, Ambassadors' and Translators' Room, Blue Hall and Guest Room.

·         The palace houses valuable gifts, including a piano by Napoleon, two bear rugs from the Russian Tsar, a 124-square-meter Hereke carpet, paintings by Ivan Aivazovsky, and more.

Historical Events of Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace is a monument that has witnessed history and has been the site of remarkable events, including the following:

·         The first Ottoman Parliament was established in this palace.

·         In 1984, the palace was converted into a museum open to the public, and today, anyone can visit it by paying an entrance fee.

·         Dolmabahce Palace survived a major earthquake in 1906. The earthquake occurred during the reign of Abdülhamid II, on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, causing the palace windows to shatter and chandeliers to be damaged.

·         Atatürk passed away in Dolmabahce Palace on November 10, 1938.

·         Some rumours suggest that 5,000,000 gold coins were spent on constructing the palace.

·         Sultan Abdülhamid II did not reside in this palace permanently; he moved to Yıldız Palace due to assassination threats. For 33 years, Dolmabahce Palace was only used for Eid al-Adha ceremonies.

How Much is the Entrance Fee for Dolmabahce Palace?

The ticket price for Dolmabahce Palace varies depending on the section you wish to visit. However, visitors can also pay a single fee to tour the palace. The entrance fee differs based on visitor type, meaning Turkish citizens, students, and tourists have different ticket prices

Tourists must pay 650 Turkish lira to visit the entire palace, or they can choose to see specific sections at a lower cost. Entry is free for children under six and adults over 65.

Dolmabahce Palace Visiting Hours

Dolmabahce Palace is open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and remains closed on Mondays and public holidays. Suppose you wish to explore the palace in peace, capture stunning photos, and immerse yourself in the grandeur and artistry of the Ottomans. In that case, it is best to visit early in the morning for a truly memorable experience.