Imagine horses adorned with jewels. These horses lived in luxury at Ahır Köşkü. This stable was not just any stable. It was built for Sultan Abdülaziz’s prized horses.
Ahır Köşkü stands in the Beylerbeyi Palace complex. Sultan Abdülaziz commissioned Sarkis Balyan to design it in 1865. The Sultan loved horses and wanted the best for them.
Now, look around. Notice the interesting architecture. Ahır Köşkü is a 680 square meter stone building. It showcases Ottoman horse culture. The building’s wooden elements add to its charm. They display the era’s elegance.
The Ahır Köşkü is under the shadow of the 15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü. This location adds to its unique appeal. The bridge connects continents. The Köşkü connects us to the past.
Let’s step inside. Imagine the sounds of horses and the activity of stable hands. The Köşkü has 20 sections for horses. There is also a room for the seyis amiri imrahor. This was the stable master’s office.
Look closely at the walls. You will see original horse head figures. Above, six chandeliers hang. If you look closely, you can see they are in the shape of a horse’s eye.
The restoration of Ahır Köşkü took eight years. The Milli Saraylar İdaresi worked carefully. They preserved the original features. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Çapoğlu oversaw the work. He ensured the historical accuracy.
During restoration, the building was reinforced. The wooden parts were renewed. The ceilings of the imrahor room have original drawings. These drawings depict wild animal figures.
Notice the small pool in the center of Ahır Köşkü. It adds a soothing sound. It reminds us of the Köşkü’s former glory.
Ahır Köşkü is one of the few remaining has ahırs. These were special stables. This Köşkü is a rare example of Ottoman horse culture.
The roof uses Rheinzink titanium zinc. This material protects against the salty sea air. It ensures the building’s longevity.
The Ahır Köşkü is not yet open to the public. Plans are underway to turn it into a museum. Soon, you will be able to explore it fully. You can admire its architecture and learn about its history. The building reflects the magnificence of its time.
As we conclude our visit, remember Ahır Köşkü. It is more than a stable. It is a symbol of Ottoman elegance. It honors Sultan Abdülaziz’s love for horses. The Köşkü is a treasure. It stands as a testament to history.