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Küçüksu Pavilion: The Elegant Legacy of the Bosphorus
📍 A serene stop nestled between the Göksu and Küçüksu streams on Istanbul’s Anatolian side...
Located on the Asian shore of Istanbul, the Küçüksu Pavilion stands gracefully between the Göksu and Küçüksu streams. During the Ottoman era, this area was a private imperial garden (hasbahçe) of the sultans and later became one of the most popular picnic areas for the people of Istanbul. In the 17th century, famous traveler Evliyâ Çelebi described the Göksu area as “a river of the water of life,” surrounded by rose gardens, small pavilions, and imperial mills.
📜 Historical Background
The first structure in the imperial garden was a wooden pavilion built during the reign of Sultan Mahmud I (1730–1754). The structure was renovated during the time of Sultan Selim III and later used by Sultan Mahmud II. It was eventually demolished by Sultan Abdülmecid, who commissioned the construction of the current stone pavilion in 1856–1857. During Sultan Abdülaziz’s reign, the pavilion’s façades were richly decorated. In 1983, the pavilion was opened to the public as a museum.
🏛️ Architectural Features
The Küçüksu Pavilion is a three-story structure (including the basement), built on a 15x27 meter footprint using masonry techniques. The basement served as storage and kitchen areas, while the upper floors were arranged with four rooms surrounding a central hall—reflecting the traditional layout of a Turkish house. Western architectural influences are seen in its design, particularly in its stucco ornaments, ornate ceilings, fireplaces made of Italian marble, elegant parquet flooring, European-style furniture, and decorative objects. The seaside façade features a beautifully designed staircase, fountain, and pool adorned with European motifs.
🌳 Küçüksu Promenade Area
The surrounding green space, known as the Küçüksu Promenade, offers a peaceful retreat for picnics and relaxation. Please note that Museum Pass is not valid in the promenade area.
🎟️ Entrance Fees
