Galatasaray Islet

Galatasaray Islet is a privately owned island in the Bosphorus Strait, hosting restaurants, bars, and swimming facilities that overlook the waterway. The property extends from the European shoreline and provides spaces for dining and recreation along the water.

In 1872, Ottoman sultan Abdülaziz granted the islet to court architect Sarkis Balyan, who built a three-story mansion on the site. Decades later, the property passed to the Galatasaray Sports Club, transforming it into a member facility.

The islet has served as a social hub for members of the Galatasaray Sports Club and their guests, creating a space where club traditions and community bonds are experienced firsthand. The location reflects how the club's identity extends beyond its main facilities into this waterfront retreat.

The islet is accessible from the European shore via a regular ferry service that operates throughout the day. Access to the island depends on club regulations, so visitors should inquire about entry conditions before planning a visit.

The Russian-Armenian painter Ivan Aivazovsky visited the islet in 1874 and created several paintings for Dolmabahçe Palace during his stay. This connection reveals how the location once attracted major artistic figures working on Ottoman imperial projects.