Ciragan Palace

Journey back to 1867. Witness the completion of Ciragan Palace, the last lavish palace built by an Ottoman sultan for himself. Ciragan Palace stands majestically on the Bosphorus. It embodies the end of a tradition. Each sultan before this era had built his own palace, refusing to inhabit the residences of his predecessors. Ciragan Palace became a symbol of this era, a testament to Sultan Abdulaziz’s vision. The palace was designed by the talented Armenian architect, Nigoayos Balyan, and constructed by his sons, Sarkis and Hagop. The construction and interior design continued until 1872, showcasing the dedication to its opulence. The palace walls, made of vibrant marble, stood as a stark contrast to the wooden inner walls and roof. This created a unique blend of strength and warmth. A marble bridge connected the palace to Yıldız Palace, nestled on the hill behind. A towering garden wall offered seclusion and privacy from the outside world. Sadly, Sultan Abdulaziz’s reign in his magnificent creation was short-lived. He was found dead within the palace walls in 1876, shortly after being dethroned. His successor, Sultan Murad V, ruled from Ciragan Palace but only for a brief 93 days before being deposed by his brother. Murad V then lived under house arrest in the palace until his death in 1904. Ciragan Palace briefly became the meeting place for the Ottoman Parliament in 1909, marking a shift towards constitutional monarchy. However, tragedy struck just two months later. A devastating fire ravaged the palace, leaving only the outer walls standing. The palace gardens, then known as “Şeref Stadı”, served as a football field for Beşiktaş J.K. for years. Decades later, in 1987, a Japanese corporation purchased the ruined palace. It meticulously restored the historic structure, adding a modern hotel complex next to it in the garden. The modern hotel opened in 1990. The restored palace section opened in 1992. Today, Ciragan Palace exists as a luxurious five-star hotel within the Kempinski chain. The palace itself serves as a collection of luxury suites. Two restaurants cater to hotel guests. The palace has undergone several renovations, including one in 2007, ensuring it retains its original baroque style and soft color palette. The Sultan Suite, once a space of Ottoman royalty, is now listed among the world’s most expensive hotel suites.