March 25: Istanbul
Dolmabahçe Palace from the Bosphorus
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The palace served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1923. The Sultans moved here since the old Topkapi Palace lacked any modern luxuries that the Dolmabahçe could provide. The palace is composed of three parts; the Mabeyn-i Hümâyûn (the quarters reserved for the men), Muayede Salonu (the ceremonial halls) and the Harem-i Hümâyûn (the Harem; the apartments of the family of the Sultan). The palace has an area of 11.2 acres, and contains 285 rooms, 46 halls, 6 baths and 68 toilets. The famous Crystal Staircase has the shape of a double horseshoe and is built of Baccarat crystal, brass and mahogany. The palace includes a large number of Hereke palace carpets made by Hereke Imperial Factory.The palace housed Atatürk in his last years, while he was suffering from illness. Atatürk died in Dolmabahçe Palace, now Atatürk's room is part of the museum.