Caring for destination

This accommodation provider has taken action to address one or more issues (whether environmental, social or cultural) which will contribute positively to the long term viability of the destination and hence their site displays a Caring for the destination rating.

Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:  

Cultural and World Heritage

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative: 

One part of the Ciragan Kempinski Hotel is actually a palace, built by Sultan Abdülaziz designed by the famous Armenian palace architect Nigogayos Balyan between 1863 and 1867. The palace is the last example of this period. The inner walls and the roof were made of wood, the outer walls of colourful marble is connected with a beautiful marble bridge to the Yildiz Palace on the hill behind. On January 19, 1910 a great fire destroyed the palace, leaving only the outer walls intact. Called "Şeref Stadı", it served for many years as a football stadium (which was a pity).

In 1991, the ruined palace was bought and restored by Kempinski Hotel chain, and a modern hotel complex was built next to it in its garden. Today, the building serves as luxury suites for the hotel along with two restaurants that cater to guests.

Although the first restoration of the palace was considered a travesty by many with its bad restoration work, the palace was renovated again during the first quarter of 2007, now resembling the authentic palace with the baroque style and soft colors. With this last restoration the Kempinski Group finally gave the Palace its original look and by doing this they saved a World Heritage Site.