The Ottoman Empire was one of the most powerful empires in Asia Minor and Europe and left glorious vestiges of historical landmarks and history itself across them. It started in the small town of Sogut from the conquests of Ertugrul Gazi, a tribal leader in the 1200s, it seemed like any other Turkish Beylik (small state) in Anatolia. It fought for its independence and stood in the fractured landscape in the aftermath of the Mongol conquest of Anatolia. However, no one was prepared for a massive, powerful empire to grow from within numerous other states in Anatolia.
Today it is known for its strength and dominance and its longevity, which spanned from the Middle Ages towards the time when the first car in human history was made, in the 20th Century, a total of nearly 600 years. Now, even though the Empire itself is long gone, one can still explore the famous Ottoman history in the bricks and rooms of ancient mansions and palaces and other landmarks scattered all across the Balkans, Anatolia (Modern Turkey), Middle East, and North Africa.
For those interested in exploring Ottoman history, in this blog we’ve searched for and found hidden and famous gems of Ottoman history across Turkey that one should visit to learn more about what culture the Ottomans left behind that makes them famous to this day.
Explore Ottoman History: A Famous Tale of Strength of Over 600 Years
The Ottomans in their time of their rule over Turkey established and made many masterpieces of architecture that are famous to this day and leave people in awe. From Erzurum to Edirne, you’ll find lots of special buildings belonging to the Ottoman era that will leave people wanting more. Here are some places you should visit to explore Ottoman history:
1. Topkapi Palace and Museum, Istanbul
One of the most famous Istanbul historical sites and the most recognizable palace in Turkey, the Topkapi Palace is home to so much history from the Ottoman era. It is one of the recommended sites to visit in Istanbul and was the home and residence of the Ottoman Sultans and their household from 1478 to 1853. It was then used as a residence for officers of the Empire and then turned into a museum.
2. Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul
The Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul was the last residence of the Ottoman Sultans in the 19th Century right down to its dissolution. Located right on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait and home to a beautiful view of the water and the other side of the city, it is a must-visit for travelers to Istanbul. The palace itself is striking and stunning in terms of its architecture and it shows how much the Ottoman architectural style had advanced in terms of beauty and elegance.
3. Ottoman House Museum, Bursa
A striking and famous landmark from the 17th Century, Bursa’s Ottoman House Museum is yet another place where you can explore Ottoman history and look into the lives of the building’s occupants. It is located close to the legendary Muradiye Complex (home to the tombs of Ottoman Sultans and their princes) and was built by wealthy members of the Ottoman elite.
It is said that the two-story property belonged to Sultan Murad II and is where the famous Mehmed the Conqueror was born. Now a museum, it is one of the most beautiful houses in Bursa and reminiscent of its illustrious past.
4. Beylerbeyi Palace, Istanbul
The Beylerbeyi Palace is another majestic example of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul and is as much as visually appealing as its other counterparts in the city. It is located in the Uskudar neighborhood and is another Istanbul historical site you must visit. It was built on the orders of Sultan Abdulaziz in the 1860s and served as a summer palace for the Sultans.
It was also used to entertain and store foreign heads of state. It was made by architects Sarkis Balyan and Hagop Balyan and its interior is lavish and exquisite, to say the least. Said to have a striking resemblance to the Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus, it is another place where one can explore Ottoman history and have a peek into the lavish lives of the Sultans.
5. Ciragan Palace, Istanbul
Istanbul is undoubtedly home to many palaces of the Ottoman Empire and another one you can find here is the Ciragan Palace, built in 1871 by Sultan Abdulaziz, and yet another gem located near the Bosphorus Strait.
The Ciragan Palace is the last in Istanbul built by the Ottomans. Its design is a mesmerizing and exquisite mix of Western and Eastern architecture. Its location right on the Bosphorus, similar to the Dolmabahce Palace, gives it a unique and amazing feel and the views from the palace are to die for.
How to Explore Ottoman History in Turkey: iLinkTurkey’s Guide
The Ottomans are a large part of Turkey’s history and one which made them famous and recognized in modern times. Ottoman history and influence across all parts of Turkey can still be seen today in many cultural traditions, landmarks, and other places in Turkey. For those on a trip to Turkey or thinking of going, you’re sure to come across many Ottoman landmarks like mansions, palaces, and mosques that make Turkey’s tourism scene much more appealing.
So are you ready to embark on a fantastic and exciting journey to the Gateway to Ancient Wonders, also known as Turkey, where you’ll experience wonderful cultures, and rich culinary delicacies, all with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Turkey. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Turkey packages now.
