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After passing through the Treasury Gate, visitors to Dolmabahçe Palace enter the Selamlık area. It makes up the southern wing of the palace and was reserved for men only.
Selamlık Garden
Before entering the Selamlık, visitors pass through the beautiful Selamlık Garden (Selamlık Bahçesi), also known as the Hasbahçe. It’s the largest garden on the palace grounds.
The Selamlık Garden contains a pond in the center. The swan fountain was brought from Yıldız Palace. There are also trees and plants from all over the world, including Korean pines, magnolias, and cedars.
Sultanate Gate
On the north side of the garden is the Sultanate Gate (Saltanat Kapısı). It’s located between two high walls. There’s a column on each side and the monogram of Sultan Abdülmecid I sits above the gate.
The other side of the gate faces Dolmabahçe Avenue. It’s nearly identical to the side facing the garden.
Selamlık
The main entrance to the Selamlık faces the garden. Before entering, visitors must put plastic booties over their shoes. Once inside, the self-guided tour passes through several halls used for state functions and meetings. They’re lavishly decorated with gold, crystal, marble, mahogany, and fine silk and wool carpets. All decorations and furniture are original.
No photos are allowed inside the palace buildings, but on my first visit I managed to sneak a few shots as did several other guests. I apologize for the quality.
The most magnificent room of the palace is the Ceremonial Hall (Muayede Salonu). It’s one of the finest palace halls in the world. The hall was used for celebrations, ceremonies, and balls. It features an impressive 4 ½ ton crystal chandelier hanging from the domed ceiling. The chandelier was designed by Frederick Rixon of Hancock, Rixon, & Dunt in London, England. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1881-1938) laid in state in the hall after his death.
Architecture
Visits to the Selamlık end at the Ceremonial Hall, where guests exit to see a sea gate. It’s also possible to look down each side of Dolmabahçe Palace, which creates an illusion that the building never ends.
Before heading to the Harem, take a few minutes to admire the ornate stonework and decorations on the building. The design blends different architectural styles together, including traditional Ottoman, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical.
