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The Maslak Pavilions (Maslak Kasırları) sit in a secluded little area off a busy highway, just north of the Istanbul city center in the district of Sarıyer.
History of the Maslak Pavilions
The Maslak Pavilions date back to the early 19th century, when Sultan Mahmud II built the first structures on the site. Sultan Abdülaziz added another building during his reign. Only a handful of those buildings exist today.
Sultan Abdülhamid II was granted the pavilions in 1868 and lived there during his years as a prince. He lived a modest life and practiced many hobbies, including carpentry, farming, and gardening. Abdülhamid II learned of his ascension to the throne at the Maslak Pavilions in 1876 when his brother, Murad V, was dethroned. During his reign as Sultan, he used the area as a hunting ground and resting place.
After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the Maslak Pavilions were used from 1937 to 1982 to treat soldiers with tuberculosis. The property was restored and opened to the public in 1984.
Visiting the Maslak Pavilions
The Maslak Pavilions are open daily except Mondays. Admission for foreigners is 160₺ (as of October 2024) and includes a self-guided audio tour. Admission to the gardens only is 20₺ (as of October 2024). The site can be reached by taking the M2 metro line to the Atatürk Oto Sanayı stop. Check the official website for more info.
Imperial Pavilion
We first walked down a flower-lined street shaded by tall trees to visit the Imperial Pavilion (Kasr-ı Hümâyûn). It’s a two story building with the bedroom and offices of Sultan Abdülhamid II inside, as well as an attic with a view of the sea. It functioned as the harem. Unfortunately, photos are forbidden inside.
Garden
Behind the Imperial Pavilion is a beautifully manicured garden with flowers and paths. The garden provides a good look at the rear of the pavilion.
Ağa’s Apartment
The building opening onto the garden is the Ağa’s Apartment (Ağalar Dairesi). It’s a one-story structure with a hamam inside.
Orangery
To the left of the Imperial Pavilion is the Orangery (Limonluk). It’s a greenhouse with several plants inside, including camelias, ferns, and banana trees.
Imperial Court
Attached to the Orangery is the Imperial Court (Mâbeyn-i Hümâyûn). It was used for official receptions. The ceiling features frescoes supposedly painted by Sultan Abdülaziz himself.
Tent Kiosk
Finally, at the corner of the property is the Tent Kiosk (Çadır Köşkü), which is an octagon shaped building that now serves as a small café. It’s a great place to sit and drink tea and chat for a couple hours while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
