Istanbul Travel Guide

Istanbul Dolmabahce Palace

It is one of the most famous historical place in Istanbul. Sultan Abdulmecid I ordered the construction which started in 1843 and completed in 1856.

During the time of Ottoman Empire, the Sultan recieved his important guests and other foreign statesman. The palace consists of 285 rooms, 44 halls, 68 toilets and 6 Turkish baths. Additionally, 14 tons of gold was used in order to decorate the ceilings. The concubines and wives of the Sultan were all housed in the harem section which is located behind the Dolmabahce Palace. Consequently, we can all conclude the fact that the Ottoman Sultans enjoyed living in the luxury. After the death of Abdulmecid, it was used as a winter residence and Sultan Mehmet V lived until the Turkish Republic emerged from the ashes of the Ottoman Empire.

During the time of the Republic of Turkey, it was used as a presidential palace where the important meetings took place between the politicians. The founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk benefited from the palace as a working place whenever he stays in Istanbul. Because of the cirrhosis, Ataturk died in Dolmabahce Palace on November 10th, 1938. That is the reason why Turkish people visit there every November in order to commemorate him. In 1952, the palace was converted into the museum where people visit. Overall, if you would like to enjoy the taste of Turkish history and know more about Turkish culture and its background, the Dolmabahce Palace is a place where you definetly should not ignore. It is sightseeing and picturesque. Therefore, you can take as many photos as you would like to and return your country with good memories and awesome experiences which are unforgettable.