Patrick Costello
Çirağan Palace Kempinski
With a history that reaches back to the 16th century, this opulent hotel was once the first of the sultans’ yali (villa by the water) featuring torchlit celebrations—“Çirağan” Festivals—a Persian word suggesting a “special light source.” Eventually the word became synonymous with the palace itself.
In 1863 a thorough work of renovation began with the demolition of the old wooden structures and replacement by stone foundations, rare marble and imported mother of pearl. By 1871 construction was completed at a cost of 2.5 million gold coins.
In 1910 a fire destroyed the entire inside of the palace, taking with it many priceless antiques and artworks, including precious works by Rembrandt.
The palace began its present restoration from December 2005-April 2007 and the cost was 5 million dollars.
Çirağan Palace Kempinski
With a history that reaches back to the 16th century, this opulent hotel was once the first of the sultans’ yali (villa by the water) featuring torchlit celebrations—“Çirağan” Festivals—a Persian word suggesting a “special light source.” Eventually the word became synonymous with the palace itself.
In 1863 a thorough work of renovation began with the demolition of the old wooden structures and replacement by stone foundations, rare marble and imported mother of pearl. By 1871 construction was completed at a cost of 2.5 million gold coins.
In 1910 a fire destroyed the entire inside of the palace, taking with it many priceless antiques and artworks, including precious works by Rembrandt.
The palace began its present restoration from December 2005-April 2007 and the cost was 5 million dollars.