Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul and Its Ottoman Grandeur

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1 Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul and Its Ottoman Grandeur The Ottoman dynasty cemented its image as a powerful and ambitious empire throughout history. They dominated roughly half of the world at one time, and their dominion spanned more than 400 years. In 1453, they reached the peak of their power, conquering Constantinople, which they called their capital. The famous Topkapi Palace was built by Mehmet the 2nd. This sultan took the Byzantine city as a house for rulers and the centre of the ruling control, but 400 years later, the new sultan believed the majestic Topkapi palace had outlived its effectiveness. Apply for the first turkey visa online and later read the entire article. It looked worn, weary, and out of date. Even though the Ottoman Empire's coffers were beginning to dwindle, he set out in 1843 on a mission to build a new palace for the Ottoman sultans to reside and rule from.

2 Architects put up ideas based on western architecture trends, and construction on the iconic Dolmabahce palace began. Unfortunately, this palace would also represent the beginning of their doom, feeding rumours that the Ottoman Empire had become the "sick man of Europe" and depleting their finances. Money was no problem for the new palace's design and decoration, which included hiring the best architects, builders, and decorators from all over the world. The walls and stairwells are decorated with pure gold leaves, and the stairs and fences are made of magnificent marble imported from the far regions. Bedrooms, living rooms, and entry halls were all covered in pure silk. Famous rulers from other countries offered expensive gifts to honour the completion date of the palace, maybe not wanting to be surpassed by the sultans. The Russian Czars gave genuine bear or tiger skin carpets, while Queen Victoria gave one of the world's largest chandeliers.

3 Touring the Dolmabahce palace is a trip of luxury and mystery since it was built according to western architectural trends yet retained certain Ottoman traditions. The Selanik utilised as the men's quarters and the centre of control for the Ottoman administration is the first building surviving with a beautiful front from the entrance. The modest harem area of the grounds, where the Ottoman sultan's mother lived over wives and concubines, preserves an essential and plain aspect. The last governing Ottoman sultan and his family were exiled from the newly founded Turkish Republic in 1922 after the War of Independence.; hence the rule and residence did not continue long.

4 Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the new country's creator, utilised Dolmabahce Palace as his new headquarters. This decision resulted in another iconic moment in history when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk died in a small bedroom of the Selanik a few years later. Every clock in the palace was set to the hour of his death for many years after he died. Visitors notes: Visiting the Palace's interior without a guide is prohibited, as is photography. On our city tours listed here, we halt by Dolmabahce Palace. Alternatively, contact us for a turkey e visa.