Yildiz Palace (Star Palace), Istanbul

Yildiz Palace (Star Palace), Istanbul

The Yildiz palace also called the “Star Palace” is the second largest palace in Istanbul. It represents the vast complex of pavilions and villas and was built in 1880. It was also used as a residence by Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II.

Overlooking the Bosphorus and surrounded by high hills, the palace was built in an area that consisted of natural woodlands. Many Sultans including Sultan Ahmet, Sultan Abdulmecid and Sultan Abdulaziz built mansions here and enjoyed vacationing in the vast estate.

After the demise of the Ottoman Empire, the palace was used as a casino and eventually converted into a guest house for visiting royalty and heads of state.

Today, many parts of the palace including the old pavilions, porcelain workshops and the largest parts of the palace gardens are open to the public. The Sale Pavilion is the best known complex in the palace; it can be reached through the Yildiz Park (the palace gardens). The pavilion has been converted into a museum and has spectacular architecture, luxurious decorations and furnishings. The Yildic Palace Museum and famous Municipal Museum of Istanbul are both present in the vast estate.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Istanbul. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Yildiz Palace (Star Palace) on Map

Sight Name: Yildiz Palace (Star Palace)
Sight Location: Istanbul, Turkey (See walking tours in Istanbul)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Istanbul, Turkey

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