THREE PALACES IN THE SIxTEENTH CENTURY ISTANBUL: ŞAH SULTAN, FERRUH KETHUDA AND DOĞANCI AHMED PAŞA PALACES

Abstract

This study attempts to answer some questions regarding the spatial and structural features of Ottoman palaces/mansions through a close examination of three palace buildings from the sixteenth century. After determining the locations and boundaries of these palace complexes based on contemporary documents, I discuss their relationship with adjacent buildings, the architectural elements ensuring privacy, and their structural components. The main sources of this article include foundation deeds, archival documents, visual materials and secondary literature, which aid in analysing the layout and units of these palace complexes. As all three palaces were located next to a Sufi convent, they were surrounded by various foundation properties. It has been established that all these buildings were surrounded by a ring of privacy through their courtyards and gardens, while still maintaining close contact with surrounding buildings. Furthermore, the variety and abundance of living and service units in these three palaces, along with the presence pavilions, mansions and baths indicate that these palaces were privileged spaces. © 2025 Burhan CAGLAR. All rights reserved.