Ishakpasha Palace The Ishak Pasha Palace is a grand architectural complex that stands as one of the most distinguished examples of Ottoman architecture from the 18th century. Situated on a hillside near the Doğubeyazıt District, it is the second most important administrative campus in Istanbul after the Topkapı Palace. The palace was constructed in 1784 according to the Islamic calendar, as indicated by an inscription located at the top of the Harem Section. Although the palace is located on a steep terrain, there is also a flat area on the side, which provides access through an entrance door situated on its narrowest facade. However, due to its age, the palace's main gate lacks sufficient defensive mechanisms, making it vulnerable to attacks. The palace features a neat stone texture and an old architectural style that is characteristic of other buildings found in Turkey. The palace is divided into various sections, each with its distinct architectural style. These sections include the Exterior Facades, First and Second Courts, Men's Quarter (Selamlık), Mosque Building, Soup Kitchen (Darüzziyafe), Bath, Harem Section, Ceremonies Hall, Arch Gates, Panther Rooms, Ammunition Room, Moosoleum, Bakery, Dungeons, and Interior Design Features (such as doors, windows, and cupboards). Visitors to the Ishak Pasha Palace are often struck by the grandeur of its design and the imposing nature of its location. While the palace may not be as defensible as other structures, its beauty and historical significance continue to attract visitors from around the world. The eastern entrance of the Ishak Pasha Palace showcases exquisite Seljuk art with its intricate reliefs and decorations made of cut stone. The palace has two courtyards, one designated as the "public" courtyard and the other as the "enslaved" courtyard, with buildings surrounding them connected by halls that segregate male and female quarters. A mosque is located in one corner of the palace, adjacent to a mausoleum at the end of the divisions, with a passage leading outside to the harem court behind red painted sealed doors. The mausoleum, constructed in the Seljuk "kümbet" style of architecture, is situated in the second courtyard of the palace and is built from cut stone. It is an octagonal structure with two floors and exterior pillars decorated with geometric motifs. The mausoleum houses the remains of Çolak Abdi Pasha, İshak Pasha, and their close relatives. The palace comprises two floors, each with 366 rooms that are equipped with stone fireplaces and central heating systems. The grand reception hall of the palace measures 30m x 3m (100ft x 10ft) and features stone walls and flooring adorned with ornate Turkish calligraphy verses from the Koran. One of these verses highlights the efforts of İshak Pasha in making the whole world a place of benevolence, leading to the marking of the date 1199 as 1784 in the Gregorian calendar. The Ishak Pasha Palace is a marvel of architectural design and craftsmanship, with each room exhibiting its unique qualities. The palace is surrounded by a desolate valley today, but its aura and various legends associated with it add to its magnificence.