How about stepping back in time to 1871? Here stands Beşiktaş Anadolu Lisesi. It is not just a school but a building with tales etched in its walls. Sultan Abdulaziz commissioned Sarkis Balyan to construct this masterpiece. Initially, it served as an addition to the Çırağan Palace. Later it became the Harem section.
Imagine the whispers of sultans and palace intrigues within these very walls. In 1924, after the end of the caliphate, the building transformed. It became the 21st school of the Turkish Republic. Beşiktaş High School began its journey in 1937. It started in Akaretler. It was a humble mixed school with only the first and second grades.
In the academic year 1940-1941 Beşiktaş High School moved here. It was renamed Beşiktaş 2nd Girls’ Secondary School. Over time, Beşiktaş 1st Secondary School closed. Some male students joined Beşiktaş High School. It became a coeducational institution.
Fast forward to 1959-1960. The school was renamed Beşiktaş Girls High School. In 1993-1994 it reverted to a mixed high school. Its name changed to Beşiktaş High School again. A practical girls’ art school operated within its premises. In 1994, it moved. Beşiktaş High School became a general high school.
The year 1995 brought landscaping to the school garden. The historical trees received protection. In 2001 the coast was fortified. In 2005-2006 Beşiktaş High School achieved Anatolian High School status. It was named Beşiktaş Anatolian High School.
But there is even more. Murad V was imprisoned here for 28 years. He was removed from the throne for alleged insanity. Today, Murad V’s former room is the school canteen. Can you imagine eating lunch where a Sultan was once confined?
The school has a rich history. It embraces the Turkish language. It also teaches English and German. Beşiktaş Anadolu Lisesi holds an International Sports Festival. It commemorates Atatürk. Youth and Sports Day are celebrated. Competitions include volleyball and basketball. Even sailing is included.
Since 2019, the school has had its own robotics team. It is known as Bosphorus Robotics 8158. This team competes in FIRST Robotics Tournaments. In 2022, they were finalists in the Bosphorus Regional.
In 2022, the school held its first entrepreneurship festival. It was named BALGirişimFest. It brought together entrepreneurs and students.
So as you stand before Beşiktaş Anadolu Lisesi remember its layered past. From palace addition to prison to a modern high school. It is a place of learning and growth. Its story continues to unfold.