Beylerbeyi Palace

Overview

Beylerbeyi Palace is a lavish Neo-Baroque summer residence on the Asian Bosphorus shore, built in 1865 for Sultan Abdülaziz and later used to host European royalty.

Highlights

• Crystal chandeliers: Bohemian and Baccarat crystal fixtures in the main reception halls.
• Bosphorus-view garden: A terraced garden descending to the waterfront with magnolia trees and a marble pool pavilion.
• Trompe-l'oeil ceilings: Elaborate painted ceilings imitating European palace decoration.

History

Abdülaziz commissioned the palace after visiting Paris and London; deposed Sultan Abdülhamid II spent his final six years under house arrest here.

Visitor Tips

• Tip: Arrive by ferry to Beylerbeyi pier for the dramatic waterfront approach.
• Duration: 45–75 minutes.