Dolmabahce Palace - an architectural marvel of the Ottomans.

Dolmabahçe Palace was built at the request of the Sultan Abdul Mezhdida. Turkish ruler decided to make the culture of the empire a new trend, he wanted to build his own palace in the style of European residences. So, on the banks of the Bosphorus appeared a magnificent palace in the Baroque style. Construction of the palace began in 1842 and lasted almost 11 years. To build a magnificent palace commissioned Armenian architect Amir Balian. Sultan Abdul Mezhdid did not skimp on the construction of his personal palace, only the walls and the interior took about 14 tons of gold. In 1853 Queen Victoria of England was presented as a gift to the main hall chandelier of Bohemian glass. This device has a weight of more than 5 tons.




During the reign of Abdul Mezhdida royal palace was the main residence of the Turkish, but eventually lost its strategic importance. Next Sultan moved his residence in the new palace, which was called "The Star", the next Sultan moved again in Dolmabahçe. Historians found that pompous luxury Dolmabahce Palace served as the residence for 6 rulers. The last owner of the palace became Ataturk. Currently, the palace is the residence of the Turkish Prime Minister.


Palace Square is about 5 hectares. Of which about 3 opened to tourists. Tours of the palace is carried out on the main structure, the main pavilion, chalets and several economic annexe. However, the very popular tourist enjoys the building of the palace. It consists of 3 parts: the harem, ceremonial hall and apartments sovereign. Rooms intended for the harem of the ruler and his family for personal use, in the apartments of the sovereign happened completion fate of the country, it is here to take all the ambassadors and verdict. In total there are 285 apartments of the palace and 44 reception hall.


The main attraction of the palace complex of Dolmabahçe believe Aynalykavak Pavilion - an elegant structure, built of granite peach. This pavilion consists of a mansion Ataturk Chalet Yildiz. This building is considered one of the most beautiful in the whole complex. It was in this place filmed the famous tale of Hollywood Shaherizady and Ali Baba.

Visiting the palace is available from 9:00 to 16:00 every day except Mondays, Thursdays and national holidays. Government decrees a limit on visiting this complex - no more than 3000 people a day.