Archaeological Excavation & Findings
Excavations conducted under the supervision of the Istanbul Archaeological Museums on the site formerly used as a car park in Beşiktaş revealed valuable architectural traces from the 19th century and earlier. Scientific investigations deepened during Bahçeşehir University's preparations for additional construction successfully reached historic strata.
Documented Findings
First Finding
Ground-floor masonry remains showing the foundational plan of the harem and selamlık quarters
Second Finding
Architectural elements from the historic hamam behind the harem, reflecting daily life of the period
Third Finding
Mosaics from floor coverings, dense tile fragments, and stamped bricks
Fourth Finding
Original stair treads identified as belonging to the mansion's main entrance floor
In-Situ Preservation
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Within the integrated project carried out with the Istanbul No. 3 Council for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, all findings were preserved without physical damage. Special measures were applied to halt the deterioration caused by surrounding construction in previous years.
Once construction is complete, the remains are designed to be presented to the city's cultural life in their original in-situ locations — a living testament to the site's layered past.
Supervising Authority
Istanbul Archaeological Museums Istanbul No. 3 Cultural Heritage Council
Campus & Historic Fabric
Education Within History
1856
Administrative Center Beşiktaş
With the sultanate's move to Dolmabahçe, Beşiktaş became the Ottoman administrative center — the site of political and diplomatic decisions in the empire's final era, grounded in deep historical soil.
Main Campus
BAU & Historic Fabric
Bahçeşehir University's main campus is positioned as an organic part of this historic district. Students study within the same fabric as palaces, piers, and centuries-old landmarks. Modern academic life is interwoven with Istanbul's deep memory.
Restoration
Faithful Reconstruction
The mansion was reintegrated into the Bosphorus shoreline's spatial continuum with its original dimensions and architectural details. The aesthetic values of the past merged with today's vision. The site serves, as it once did, as a center for learning and growth.