History of Construction
Beylerbeyi Palace was built between 1861–1865 by architects Sarkis Balyan and his brother Agop Balyan, upon the order of Sultan Abdülaziz.
The palace was built to replace an earlier wooden structure, creating a notable effect that blended Western styles with a refreshed Ottoman architectural understanding.
In addition to serving as a summer residence, Beylerbeyi Palace also functioned as an important diplomatic venue for hosting state visitors. Austrian Empress Sisi, the Egyptian Khedive after the opening of the Canal, and French Empress Eugenie de Montijo were among those hosted in this palace.
A Balyan Family Masterpiece
Sarkis Balyan
Sarkis Balyan, one of the leading figures of the Balyan dynasty of architects, put his signature on important works that shaped the transformation of Ottoman palace architecture in the 19th century.
Agop Balyan
Sarkis's brother Agop Balyan played a decisive role in the detailed decoration and interior design work of the palace. The duo formed a partnership on the most high-level projects of the period.
1865
Year Built
24+
Rooms and Halls
5,000m²
Area
2
Floors
Home of the Dynasty
This magnificent structure served as home to several members of the Ottoman dynasty. The last sultan, Sultan Mehmed VI Vahideddin, resided here in some periods until the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.
In addition to the harem section where the sultans and their entourages stayed, the selamlık section used as an official meeting hall also offers notable features.
After the collapse of the Ottomans, during the Republican era, the palace was converted into a museum open to the public. Today, visitors have the opportunity to tour this structure that bears traces of fascinating history and unique aesthetic understanding.
Beylerbeyi Through Time
1750
First wooden palace is built under Sultan Mahmud I
1800
Palace is renovated during the reign of Sultan Selim III
1851
Wooden palace is destroyed by fire
1861-1865
Sultan Abdülaziz builds the current stone palace
1869
Austrian Empress Elisabeth "Sisi" is hosted at the palace
1913
Sultan Abdülhamid II is forced into residence here after his deposition
1923
With the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, the palace becomes state property
1984
The palace opens as a museum for visitors