Palaces of the Sultans

While the power and prestige of a new and modern Europe were increasing, the Ottoman Empire was on its last leg. To create an image of a prosperous and Westernized empire, Sultan Abdülmecid had the Dolmabahçe Palace constructed on European models and abandoned Topkapi Palace and what he considered to be the symbol of an old order. With the official residence of the Ottoman Empire now on the northern shores of the Bosphorus, it wasn't long before members of the court and government officials began to build mansions in the area. More palaces sprang up, and the official shifting of power from south of the Golden Horn to Besiktas was complete. If the royal palaces fail to convince you of the Ottoman Empire's extravagance during its final economic decline, they will surely convince you of its opulence.