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Perched on the European shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, the Dolmabahce Palace is one of the most magnificent royal palaces in the world. Built between 1843 and 1856 for Sultan Abdulmecid, this enormous palace replaced Topkapi as the main administrative centre of the late Ottoman Empire. For anyone visiting Istanbul, a tour of this landmark is a must. You can learn more about its background at #links#. The architecture is breathtaking. Unlike the traditional Ottoman courtyard layout, the palace blends Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles with classical Ottoman craftsmanship. Within its walls, you will find 285 rooms, 46 halls, and an astonishing 14 tons of gold leaf decorating the ceilings and walls. The grand Muayede Hall showcases the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, weighing 4.5 tons. The crystal staircase, with its sweeping double-horseshoe design, is regarded as one of the finest in the world. Dolmabahce Palace also holds deep significance for Turkey, as the founder of the Republic worked here and passed away in Room 71 on 10 November 1938. To this day, all the clocks in the palace are stopped at 9:05. Guests interested in this history can see the Harem section where his room is preserved. Visiting is straightforward. The palace is situated in the Besiktas district and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 to 17:30, closed on Mondays. Tickets cost approximately 38 dollars, and booking ahead avoids long lines. To reach find out more is the T1 tram to Kabatas or a ferry to Besiktas. For everything regarding how to get there and what to see, visit the official guide at #links#. Allow two to three hours to fully enjoy this Ottoman treasure.