This is the more European centre of Istanbul, both by the look of it, its location and its uses. It looks almost Russian, reflecting the growing influence Europe was having on Turkey when it was built in the mid 19th Century. It was built for the Sultan to live in, he was looking for something more opulent and modern as was the European style of the time, and it took 14 tonnes of gold to decorate it. The world's largest crystal chandelier in its main hall and a staircase in the shape of a horseshoe with banisters of crystal.

The only way to see inside is on a guided tour.

Written by  Emilie Stokes.

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