Tourexpi
As
evocative as the Bosphorus itself are the stately mansions along its shores.
Set on both the European and Anatolian shores, the mansions are best viewed
from the Bosphorus itself. Boat tours, the ideal way to see these picturesque
homes, offer a distinctive cruising experience complemented by stunning vistas
of the city.
Throughout
İstanbul's incarnations, the Bosporus has been the city's centerpiece. Dating
from the 17th century and later, the breathtaking mansions "leaning
their backs against the groves and stretching their feet to the sea"
illuminate a distinctive period in Ottoman history. The owner's status governed
the location of their mansion, as well as its color, with these Ottoman-era
structures generally erected in the style of pavilions (köşk) and
residences (konak) with two or three floors, many rooms and sections,
and large gardens or groves. Most were built with stone or brick and
wood and timber (baghdâdî) techniques, alluding to their Ottoman
architectural lineage with touches such as hand drawn
ornaments and wide bay windows (cumba) rather than balconies. Many of
the mansions featured boathouses.
Although
the Dolmabahce Palace and Çiragan Palace are among the most prominent
structures visible along the Bosphorus today, it is believed that, at one
point, more than 300 mansions lined both sides of the waterway. While
some of these buildings were erected during the Republican Era, most were built
during the Ottoman Empire. Some surviving structures have been restored to
their former splendor and converted into hotels, museums or splendid event
venues. Many mansions still serve as residences for Istanbul families.
The
Serene Oasis of İstanbul: The
Bosporus
Naturally,
the perfect way to traverse the Bosphorus is by boat, where you can see the
mansions lined up like gems along the shore. Boat tours in İstanbul usually
depart from the ferry piers in the bustling Kabataş and Eminönü neighbourhoods.
Another option is to hire a private boat for a more flexible and exclusive
experience. As spring arrives, the Strait's shoreline comes alive with redbud
blossoms in shades of pink, lilac and purple. This rainbow of colours,
stretching from Beykoz to Üsküdar and from the Historical Peninsula to
Beşiktaş, Yeniköy and Rumeli Hisarı, enhances the dramatic beauty of İstanbul's
mansions. With
luck, your springtime Bosphorus tour may also include watching dolphins frolic
in the water.
The
City's Attraction Centre
The
Bosphorus coast is home to some of the city's hippest destinations. In addition
to presenting a vivid and enjoyable atmosphere that highlights the vibrancy of
this metropolis, the Bosphorus shoreline houses excellent fish restaurants,
Michelin-rated and fine-dining venues serving superb international and Turkish
cuisine, picturesque cafes, and even sophisticated nightclubs!
Image
Credit: © TGA
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