| Khedive's Palace (Hidiv Kasrı) |
|
Built in 1907 by the last khedive (the hereditary viceroy of Egypt,), Abbas Hilmi İl. this summer palace is one of the most striking buildings of its era in Istanbul. Its tower is an imposing landmark for those travelling up the Bosphorus. The Italian architect Delfo Seminati based the design of the palace on an Italianate villa, throwing in Art Nouveai and Ottoman elements. Mosi impressive of all is the round entrance hall. This is entered through Art Nouveau glass doors and features a stained-glass skylight above a central fountain surrounded by eight pairs of elegant columns. Renovated by the Turkish Touring Club , the palace is now open to visitors as a luxury restaurant . |