Pearls of the Bosphorus: 10 Iconic Mansions in İstanbul
The mansions lining both sides of the Bosphorus dazzle not only with their aesthetic stance but also with their history.
Each of these structures, built from the Ottoman period to the Republic, is a pearl of İstanbul.
Here are the 10 most glamorous mansions in İstanbul:
1. Huber Mansion (Tarabya, Sarıyer)
This late Ottoman mansion was designed by German architect August Jachmund. It is used as a Presidential residence with its large land and magnificent architecture.
2. Kıbrıslı Mansion (Anadolu Hisarı)
An important example of 18th century Ottoman architecture, this mansion is one of the most aesthetic buildings on the Bosphorus with its pastel color and wooden texture. Today it is used as private property.
3. Count Ostrorog Mansion (Yeniköy)
This mansion, which belonged to Count Ostrorog, a French jurist who served as an advisor to the Ottoman Empire, attracts attention with its elegant garden overlooking the Bosphorus.
4. Esma Sultan Mansion (Ortaköy)
Built in the 19th century for the daughter of Mahmud II, this historical building has been transformed into an elegant venue used for events and wedding organizations.
5. Prince Burhaneddin Efendi Mansion (Çengelköy)
Standing out with its neo-baroque style, this mansion was built for the Ottoman prince Burhaneddin Efendi. It attracts attention with its white facade and elegant details.
6. Said Halim Pasha Mansion (Yeniköy)
Built in the early 1900s on behalf of the Egyptian Khedive Said Halim Pasha, the mansion is frequently preferred for weddings and organizations with its impressive architecture.
7. Ragıp Pasha Mansion (Kadıköy / Suadiye)
The building, also known as the “Millionaires Mansion”, draws attention with its location on the Anatolian side and its size. The mansion, which was abandoned for many years, is being restored again.
8. Zeki Pasha Mansion (Rumelihisarı)
This mansion, which belonged to Zeki Pasha, one of the leading soldiers of the Abdülhamid II period, is one of the largest mansions on the Bosphorus. It is known for its magnificent structure resembling a palace.
9. Amcazade Hüseyin Pasha Mansion (Anadolu Hisarı)
One of the oldest examples of civil architecture on the Bosphorus, this mansion was built in the 1690s. With its embroidered ceiling reflecting the spirit of the Tulip Age and classical Ottoman architecture, it is a treasure trove of history. Although only the selamlik section is still standing today, it is still very valuable.
10. Ahmet Afif Pasha Mansion (Anadolu Hisarı)
This mansion, which belonged to Ahmet Afif Pasha, the chief cabinet minister of Sultan Abdülhamid II, is especially known for its wooden ornaments on the facade. It was used by the French Consulate for many years.
Each of these mansions is not just a magnificent building; they are living histories witnessing different periods of İstanbul. Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, these beauties continue to reflect the elegance and multicultural past of the city.