Dolmabahçe Palace

After capturing the city, Sultan Mehmet the 2nd built Topkapi Palace for rulers as a home. However, after 400 years later; the new ruler decided that Topkapi Palace outlived its use. It looked old-fashioned, worn and tired. Although Ottoman Empire’s economy had started to dwindle in those times; the sultan ordered to be built a new Palace where Empire family can live.
Ironically, since architecture trends were taken from Western countries for Dolmabahce Palace, it increased the gossips that Ottoman Empire became ‘sick man of Europe’. Best architects, builders and decorators were employed and much money spent on decoration of the new palace regardless of bad economic situation of the Empire.
Pure gold leaves on the ceilings and staircases, marble imported from foreign countries used for the stairway. Bedrooms, living salons and entrance halls were pure silk. Famous rulers of foreign countries gifted Ottoman Empire for Dolmabahce Palace. For example; Queen Victoria presented a chandelier, one of the biggest in the world while the Russians Czars gifted pure bear or tiger skin rugs.
After collapse of Ottoman Empire, Dolmabahce Palace used by new government- Republic of Turkey. The founder of the new government – Mustafa Kemal Ataturk died in a bedroom of the Palace in 1938. You may be shocked at simplicity of the room. Even though he could have chosen more grand and lavish room, he preferred the simple one.
You can visit Dolmabahce Palace, but touring without a guide is not permitted. You will enjoy the tour as you will witness coexistence of modernity of western architectural trends and traditionalism of Ottoman Empire.
Dolmabahce Palace is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 09:00 to 16:00. Admission is not free, but on national days visitors can visit the Palace for free.
With its glory, Dolmabahce Palace worth your time!