Once a beacon of beauty and power, dating back to the 17th century, Çırağan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul remains the only Ottoman imperial palace and hotel situated on the Bosphorus.
Photo: Courtesy Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Çırağan Palace Kempinski offers enchanting views of the historical peninsula, showcasing the beauty of the Ottoman palace in a city where east meets west, while also encapsulating the essence of modern Istanbul. Its fantastic style, location, and heavenly atmosphere, complete with lush gardens, have made it an iconic spot in the city.
The famed word “çırağan” comes from the Persian word for “full of light”, capturing the very essence of the palace. The name first came about during the Tulip Period, when torches brightened up the night sky during Çırağan Festivals, and has been synonymous with the palace ever since. The property once homed Ottoman sultans, and today, continues to welcome countless noteworthy personalities, including royal families, world-renowned celebrities, and government officials.
Photo: Courtesy Çırağan Palace Kempinski
The hotel features walls decorated with handwritten testimonials and photos from public figures such as Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Daniel Craig and Madonna, among many others. The palace recently also underwent an exciting new chapter, with redesigned guest rooms, suites, lobby, and restaurants. The visionary and esteemed art expert Serdar Gülgün joined hands with Toner Architects to transform the hotel into a masterpiece. Classic design elements intertwined with an innovative flair transport guests to different time periods, immortalizing the historic past within the hotel’s walls.
Photo: Courtesy Çırağan Palace Kempinski
One of Çırağan Palace Kempinski’s historical treasures is its Turkish bath. Constructed between 1863 and 1871 on the orders of Sultan Abdulaziz, the bath was built using the finest quality marble. Despite a devastating fire in 1910, this area’s engraved wall decorations and columns survived, and have been carefully preserved. The Turkish bath remains a special venue for visitors, accommodating up to 20 guests for dinner or 40 guests for parties, offering an experience like no other. The palace is also home to the world’s largest Viennese Baroque-style grand chandelier, weighing 2.7 tonnes and bearing 232 lamps. The palace suite area features unique, historical handmade carpets, and it boasts the only registered helipad on the Bosphorus.
Photo: Courtesy Çırağan Palace Kempinski
The dining options at Çırağan Palace Kempinski are plentiful, with the most notable culinary spot being the award-winning Tuğra. Located on the first floor, Tuğra invites guests to an unforgettable dining experience, with its elegant ambiance and delectable menu, which includes golden age classics like grilled octopus, braised duck and stuffed aubergine. Tuğra has earned a sought-after spot on the Michelin Guide’s ‘Recommended’ list, along with the esteemed ‘Service Award’ and two hats from Gault & Millau, reconfirming its culinary and service excellence.
Photo: Courtesy Çırağan Palace Kempinski
Çırağan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul continues to be a symbol of timeless regality, infusing its memorable past with the pulsating energy of modern Istanbul. With its impeccable service and historical grandeur, it remains a jewel on the Bosphorus.
