An Evaluation of Dolmabahçe Palace and Its Gardens from the Perspective of Landscape Art History

This study examines Dolmabahçe Palace and its gardens within the context of the social and cultural transformation of the Tanzimat period and the relationship between Turkish and European garden art. By considering the palace’s historical development, architectural structure and garden layout together, it evaluates the extent to which the gardens reflect Western influences and which elements of the traditional Turkish garden concept they preserve.

The study traces the development of Dolmabahçe from its earliest formation on land reclaimed from the sea, through the period of Beşiktaş Coastal Palace, the Westernisation movement under Sultan Abdülmecid and the construction of the new palace. The architectural style of the palace is assessed in terms of its Neoclassical, Neo-Baroque and eclectic characteristics, while the garden layout is compared with Renaissance and Baroque European gardens, particularly Versailles, as well as with the Classical Turkish garden tradition.

The gardens of Dolmabahçe Palace are analysed in separate sections: the Selamlık Front Garden, the Front Garden Strip, the Kuşluk Garden, the Harem Garden and the Rear Garden of the Crown Prince’s Apartments. Planting elements and structural features—including paths, walls, railings, pools, fountains, lighting elements and sculptures—are examined individually. Changes that have occurred over time and interventions affecting the gardens’ original character are also evaluated. The final section reviews conservation and development efforts and presents recommendations concerning current use and the future of the gardens.