Dolmabahce Palace

Overview

Dolmabahce Palace is a lavish 19th-century Bosphorus-front palace blending Ottoman baroque with European neoclassical styles. Built as a statement of Ottoman modernity, it replaced Topkapi as the sultans' primary residence.

Highlights

• Crystal Staircase: A monumental double staircase with Baccarat crystal banisters.
• Bohemian Chandelier: A 4.5-ton, 750-lamp chandelier in the Ceremonial Hall, one of the largest in the world.
• Ataturk's Room: Mustafa Kemal Ataturk used the palace in his final years; all clocks in the palace are set to 9:05, the time of his death.

History

Built between 1843 and 1856 for Sultan Abdulmecid I at a cost said to equal 25% of the annual state budget. It served as the capital until 1922 and then as Ataturk's Istanbul residence.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Tour Only: The interior can only be visited on a guided tour (included with ticket).
• Two Sections: Selamlik (official) and Harem (private) have separate tickets; buy both.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.