Other Palaces in Istanbul
In addition to the State Pavilions at Yıldız
Palace, the compound includes a series of pavilions and a mosque.
It was completed by Abdülhamit II at the end of the 19th century. The Şale,
the largest and most exquisite of the buildings, reveals the luxury in
which the sultans lived and entertained. Set in a huge park of flowers,
shrubs and trees gathered from every part of the world, the palace grounds
offer one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Because
of restoration work, only the Şale and park are open to the
public. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.)
The Göksu Palace, also known
as Kücüksu, takes its name from the streams which empty
into the Bosphorus near the tiny palace. Built by Abdülmecit I in the
middle of the l9th century, it was used as a summer residence. (Open every
day except Monday and Thursday)
Originally built in the l8th century and
later restored by various sultans, the Aynalı Kavak Summer Pavilion
assumed its name, Mirrored Poplar, when its famed mirrors, a gift from
some of the Venetian, were installed in 1718. This palace on the Golden
Horn is one of the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish
architecture. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.)
The 19th century Ihlamur Pavilion
is named after the linden trees that grow in its gardens. Now in the heart
of metropolitan Istanbul, when it was originally constructed, the pavilion
lay in the rolling countryside that surrounded the city. The Merasim
Pavilion was used for official ceremonies while the Maiyet
Pavilion sheltered the sultan's entourage and on occasions, his
harem during their excursions out of the palace confines. (Open every day
except Monday and Thursday.)
The Maslak Pavilion on a shady
green hill was conceived by Sultan Abdülaziz as hunting lodges and are
superb examples of the late l9th century Ottoman decorative style. These
are particularly noteworthy. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.)
The Florya Atatürk Sea Pavilion
served as a summer residence for Turkish presidents. Situated in a
T-shaped design jutting out onto the Marmara Sea, this building
constructed in 1935, serves as a showcase for some of the loveliest
examples of early 20th century furnishings. Atatürk was the first
president to stay here. (Open weekdays except Monday and Thursday.)
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