The Ihlamur Pavilions are situated in the Ihlamur Valley, nestled between the hills of Beşiktaş, Yıldız, and Nişantaşı. Historically, from the 18th century to the early 20th century, this area served as a popular country excursion spot. The valley, adorned with plane and linden trees, was shaded by the Fulya stream.

Origins and Development

The lower part of the valley, which includes the Ihlamur Pavilions, was initially owned by Hacı Hüseyin Agha, the administrator of the imperial dockyard during Sultan Ahmed III's reign (1703-1730). Later, it became state property and was transformed into an imperial garden. Historical markers, such as archery stones in the upper valley, indicate that Sultan Selim III (1789-1807) and Sultan Mahmud II (1808-1839) held archery contests in this area.

Sultan Abdülmecid's Transformations

Under Sultan Abdülmecid (1839-1861), the third part of the valley was cultivated and designed as the "Conversation Garden." Between 1848 and 1855, he replaced the modest pavilion mentioned by French poet Lamartine with two new pavilions, renaming the area "Nüzhetiye," which means "relief, freshness, joy, and happiness."

Later Uses and Historical Significance

During Sultan Abdülaziz's reign (1861-1876), the imperial garden hosted various entertainments and wrestling matches, remaining a favored location for subsequent sultans and their families. After the proclamation of the Republic, the Ihlamur Pavilions were transferred to the İstanbul Municipality in 1951 and housed the Tanzimat (Reorganization) Museum.

In 1966, the Ihlamur Pavilions were allocated to National Palaces, and following extensive landscaping, they were opened to the public as a museum in 1985, showcasing their original furnishings.

The Pavilions: Ceremonial and Retinue

The Ihlamur Pavilions consist of two main structures:

Ceremonial Pavilion: This pavilion served as the Sultan’s office and reception area. It is an architectural marvel featuring an entrance hall, two side rooms, a baroque-styled staircase, and intricate relief decorations. The interior boasts a Western-style decor, favored in 19th-century Ottoman palaces, with European furniture and furnishings complementing the design.

Retinue Pavilion: This pavilion was designated for the Sultan’s entourage and family. Its traditional architecture includes a central hall-like room surrounded by corner rooms, with walls adorned with stucco work imitating marble in various colors.

Both pavilions were primarily used for day trips by the sultans and to entertain foreign dignitaries, reflecting the blend of personal and official use during their time.