Hilton Hotel (Harbiye)
Time: 10:00
Guided by Ali Emrah Ünlü…
Istanbul’s first international five-star Hilton Hotel was designed between 1951-1952 in collaboration with the American architecture firm SOM and Turkish architect Sedad Hakkı Eldem. The hotel stands out for its design that combines Turkish architecture with local features, including its “flying carpet” canopy at the entrance, a restaurant with a divanhane (traditional lounge) layout, garden pavilions, and elements reminiscent of a Turkish House. As the first modern building constructed in Istanbul, it is regarded as an important work due to the modernization of Turkish architecture and the differences in construction techniques. Both Turkish and American architectural influences can be observed in the building.
Halil Nadaroğlu House
Time: 13:00
Guided by Emine Öğün…
Located on Burgazada, the Halil Nadaroğlu House draws attention with its modern interpretation of traditional Turkish pavilions. This building, a cornerstone of modern Turkish architecture, carries the signature of Turgut Cansever. Harmonizing with its natural surroundings, the Halil Nadaroğlu House combines aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability through its architectural language. With contributions from the Ev ve Şehir Vakfı (House and City Foundation), it opens its doors for the first time this year as part of the Open Door Architecture Festival.
Tekfur Palace
Time: 14:00
Guided by Kerim Altuğ…
Tekfur Palace is one of the rare palace structures that have survived from the late Byzantine period to the present day. It is located near Edirnekapı within the Blaherna Palace complex. The three-story building, constructed in the late 12th century, is notable for its alternating brick and stone technique. Used as a tile workshop during the Ottoman period, the palace has been restored and now functions as a museum, standing as one of the symbols of Istanbul’s layered history.
