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Embark on a journey to explore the historic Beylerbeyi Palace, a magnificent summer residence for Ottoman sultans and prestigious guests, nestled along the scenic Bosphorus Strait. Discover the palace’s rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens while immersing yourself in the luxurious world of the Ottoman Empire. In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with essential information about the palace, including its history, architecture, and visiting tips, to ensure you have a memorable experience. Let’s dive into the captivating world of Beylerbeyi Palace.
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The History of Beylerbeyi Palace
The Origins and Significance
Built by Sultan Abdulaziz in the 19th century, Beylerbeyi Palace served as a summer palace and a residence for high-profile guests visiting Istanbul. The Asian side of Istanbul had not seen any imperial projects of this magnitude until Beylerbeyi Palace, aside from a few mosques. Notable guests of the palace include Eugénie de Montijo, wife of French Emperor Napoleon III. Beylerbeyi Palace played a vital role in showcasing the power and prestige of the Ottoman Empire.
The Balyan Family’s Architectural Influence
The Balyan family, Armenian citizens of the Ottoman Empire, were the palace architects for several generations. Educated in France, they pioneered a new era in Ottoman architecture by combining Baroque and Neo-Classical elements. This unique architectural style is exemplified in Beylerbeyi Palace, a magnificent fusion of Eastern and Western influences.
Explore Beylerbeyi Palace with Guided Tours
Beylerbeyi Palace in Istanbul: Architecture and Interior
Eclectic Exterior Design
The palace’s exterior is an elegant display of white marble, embodying the eclectic style of 19th-century Bosphorus palaces. The blue columns that distinguish Beylerbeyi Palace from its contemporaries are particularly eye-catching.
Luxurious Interior Style
The interior design of Beylerbeyi Palace showcases the opulence of Ottoman royalty. With its Egyptian rush matting, large Hereke carpets, French clocks, and Turkish and Chinese porcelain pieces, the palace exudes an aura of imperial power and exclusiveness. The palace consists of three entrances, six staterooms, and 26 smaller rooms, all adorned with intricate details and furnishings.
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Beylerbeyi Palace: Gardens and Pavilions
The Enchanting Gardens
One of the palace’s most captivating features is its terraced gardens, which cover a sprawling area of 70,000 square meters. These gardens are home to rare trees and plants, as well as lovely sets of stairs and ramps connecting the different terraces. The Beylerbeyi Palace Gardens are truly a sight to behold.
The Pavilions
The palace grounds feature three important pavilions: the Yellow Pavilion, the Marble Pavilion, and the Ahır Pavilion. Each pavilion holds its own unique charm and history, from the elegant Yellow Pavilion used for recreation to the Marble Pavilion with its beautiful interior fountain and marble walls. The Ahır Pavilion, with its 20-section barn, showcases the importance of horses in the Ottoman Empire.
Explore Beylerbeyi Palace on a Bosphorus Strait Boat Tour
To fully appreciate the palace’s magnificent architecture and its picturesque location along the Bosphorus, consider joining a Bosphorus Strait Boat Tour with Beylerbeyi. These tours offer a unique perspective on the palace and the iconic Maiden’s Tower while you cruise along the scenic waterway.
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Tips for Visiting Beylerbeyi Palace in Istanbul
Transportation: How to the Beylerbeyi Palace
The most practical way to reach Beylerbeyi Palace is by taking a public bus from Uskudar, which is about 3.4 km away from the palace. You can access Uskudar via public buses or shared taxis from Kadikoy, public ferries or boats from Besiktas, or public ferries from Sultanahmet and Eminonu. See the location >>
How to Get to Beylerbeyi Palace by Bus
Several bus routes pass near Beylerbeyi Palace. You can board one of these buses to get to the palace: 14M, 15B, 15ÇK, 15F, 15H, or Metrobus (34AS, 34G).
How to Get to Beylerbeyi Palace from Sultanahmet
Board The Marmaray (Halkalı – Gebze) from the Sirkeci Station and take off at the Uskudar Station. After that board the 15R bus to the stop Beylerbeyi Sarayi.
How to Get to Beylerbeyi Palace from Taksim
From Taksim Square, walk to İETT Park Otel Durağı, take bus 559C towards Rumelihisarüstü, get off at Deniz Müzesi, walk to the Naval Museum, board the TB2 bus towards Beylerbeyi Palace
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Beylerbeyi Palace: Opening Hours and Ticket Prices (January 2024)
- Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays and open from 09:00 to 18:00 on other days. The ticket offices operate from 09:00 to 17:30.
- Ticket prices: 350 TL
- Gardens entrance fee: 20 TL
Things to Do Near Beylerbeyi Palace
While visiting Beylerbeyi Palace, you might want to explore other nearby attractions to make the most of your trip to Istanbul. Here are some recommended things to do near Beylerbeyi Palace:
Üsküdar Promenade
Take a stroll along the scenic Üsküdar Promenade, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Bosphorus, Maiden’s Tower, and the European side of Istanbul. The promenade is lined with numerous cafes and restaurants, offering the perfect opportunity to relax and savor some delicious Turkish food and beverages.
Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)
Visit the iconic Maiden’s Tower, situated on a small islet near the Üsküdar shore. The tower has a fascinating history and offers a picturesque setting for photos. You can reach the tower by taking a short boat ride from Üsküdar and enjoy the on-site cafe and restaurant.
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque
Explore the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan. The mosque was built in honor of Mihrimah Sultan, the daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent. The mosque’s beautiful interior and exterior designs make it a must-see attraction.
Çamlıca Hill
Take a trip to Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points in Istanbul, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. The hill is home to a beautiful park, several cafes, and the recently completed Çamlıca Mosque, making it an ideal spot to spend a few hours. Read more…
Fethi Paşa Korusu
Fethi Paşa Korusu is a beautiful park located along the Bosphorus, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is an ideal place for picnicking, jogging, or simply enjoying the lush greenery and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting Beylerbeyi Palace is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the luxurious world of Ottoman sultans. From its stunning architecture and opulent interior to its enchanting gardens and pavilions, the palace is a true gem of Istanbul. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Beylerbeyi Palace is a must-see attraction. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Ottoman royalty.
Visitor Information
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Entrance Fee: 350 TL
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⌛Opening Hours: from 09:00 to 18:00
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Closed: Mondays
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Location: Beylerbeyi, Abdullahağa Cd., 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Beylerbeyi Palace opening hours?
Beylerbeyi Palace is open from 09:00 to 18:00, with the ticket offices operating from 09:00 to 17:30. The palace is closed on Mondays.
How do I get to Beylerbeyi Palace?
The most convenient way to reach Beylerbeyi Palace is by taking a public bus from Uskudar, which is approximately 3.4 km away. You can access Uskudar via public buses or shared taxis from Kadikoy, public ferries or boats from Besiktas, or public ferries from Sultanahmet and Eminonu.
What are the ticket prices for Beylerbeyi Palace?
Ticket prices for domestic visitors are 50 TL, for foreign visitors 200 TL, and the discount ticket price is 25 TL. The entrance fee for the gardens is 15 TL.
Can I visit the Beylerbeyi Palace gardens separately from the palace?
Yes, you can visit the Beylerbeyi Palace gardens separately from the palace. The entrance fee for the gardens is 15 TL.
Is there a guided tour available for Beylerbeyi Palace?
Yes, guided tours of Beylerbeyi Palace are available. You can also explore the palace and its surroundings by joining a Bosphorus Strait Boat Tour with Beylerbeyi.
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