Mermer Köşk, Ottoman pavilion in Üsküdar, Turkey
Mermer Köşk is a marble pavilion on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus that forms part of the Beylerbeyi Palace complex. The structure contains interior water features, columned spaces, and chambers connected to the main palace through terraced gardens.
The pavilion was built in the 19th century during Sultan Mahmud II's reign and served as a hunting lodge. It later became a retreat space within the former imperial park known as Hasbahçe.
The pavilion reveals how sultans enjoyed leisure time, with marble and fountains expressing their love of luxury and water features. The interior spaces with niches and fireplaces suggest private moments away from palace life.
Visiting works best during warmer months when the gardens and grounds are easy to explore. Its location along the Bosphorus waterfront makes it simple to visit alongside other palace structures.
The pavilion was one of several outbuildings including the Yellow Pavilion and Stable Pavilion that together formed a network of retreat spaces. This arrangement shows how large palace estates divided into smaller specialized rooms depending on the season and activity.
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