Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkey

History of Dolmabahce Palace

Built by the architect Garabet Balyan during the years 1843-1856, Dolmabahce Palace was the home to the Ottoman sultans back during their rule. It was built for the reason that the previous palace where the royal family used to reside was not luxurious enough. The Dolmabahce Palace has a lot of importance in the history of Istanbul and is considered as one of the grandest palaces in Istanbul.

The Dolmabahce Palace attracts lots of visitors from all around the world through its beauty and charm. The palace was specially built for the Ottoman sultans and was the home for 6 sultans since the day of the completion of the palace. As per the history of Dolmabahce Palace, it took 13 years for the completion of this attraction which is one of the most marvelous creations of the architects in Istanbul. The palace is built in European style as was instructed by the emperor and the result was one of the most fascinating palaces ever seen.

Attractions of Dolmabahce Palace

There are many attractions in the palace itself which makes it more enchanting. The Dolmabahce Palace has handmade parquet floors in the dining halls which can be viewed. The parquets are made of ebony, rosewood, and mahogany and is one of the masterpieces of the architect who built the palace. The chandelier in the palace is yet another attraction of the Dolmabahce Palace and is famous for being the largest Bohemian crystal chandelier. There are even several paintings in the palace which would depict the ancient tales and the skills of the artists back then. The palace has a room in the harem section, where the founder of the Turkish Republic- Mustafa Kemal Ataturk died.  

Interesting Facts about Dolmabahce Palace

The clock in the harem section where the Turkish Republic founder died remains set to his time of expiry. And, the whole Turkey observes silence at this time every year.

The women of the harem used to be hidden behind the grilles to watch the grand ceremonies held in the hall.

Around 14 tons of gold was used to decorate the ceiling leaves in the palace.

Sprawled over around 45 million square of area, the Dolmabahce Palace is the largest palace in Turkey.

The palace exhibits a collection of around 202 oil paintings made by some of the eminent artists.