Mausoleum of Mahmud II

The Mausoleum of Mahmud II is an octagonal marble building with a long corridor and a central chamber in the old quarter of Çemberlitaş. A crystal chandelier hangs beneath the dome, which shows relief patterns and gilded details.

Construction finished in 1840 shortly after the sultan died. Two more sultans and many family members were later laid to rest here.

The name Mahmud derives from an Arabic word meaning praised and was common among Ottoman rulers. Visitors find a quiet interior with prayer rugs and a tall wooden shrine carved with calligraphy.

The entrance sits on Divan Yolu street near several other Ottoman structures in the old city center. Visitors should wear modest clothing and remove shoes when entering.

Two clocks inside are gifts from French emperor Napoleon III in the 19th century. The cemetery next door holds graves of writers and thinkers from late Ottoman times.

Location: Çemberlitaş

Location: Fatih

Architects: Mimar Kemaleddin Bey

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

GPS coordinates: 41.00850,28.97250

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28