In 1888, the Orient Express started its 80-hour journey between Paris and Istanbul. However, the passengers of the train faced a problem as there was no hotel in Istanbul that met their standards. To solve this issue, a Belgian businessman, who was one of the partners of Wagon Lit’s railway company, started constructing the Pera Palas Hotel. The hotel opened in 1895 and was marketed as a high-end establishment catering exclusively to a select segment of the population.
Welcome to this article where we will be discussing Pera Palas, a hotel that was constructed to accommodate Orient Express passengers. We are excited to share with you its rich history, famous guests, and notable events that have greatly influenced us.
Architectural Marvels and Historical Significance
The Pera Palas Hotel incorporates all the architectural and decorative features of the late 18th century, making it one of the best examples of neoclassical and orientalist structures.Architect Alexander Vallaury
The hotel was designed by Alexander Vallaury, a Levantine architect renowned for his iconic buildings in Istanbul. Vallaury’s father was a chef who migrated from France to Istanbul and served as the cook for the French Ambassador. After attending Saint Joseph High School, Vallaury pursued architectural studies at the Ecoles des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Upon returning to Istanbul, he created monumental structures that have left a significant mark on the city’s history. You’ll be delighted to know that the area boasts some of the most well-known buildings, including the Archaeology Museum, the Ottoman Bank, the Düyûn-u Umûmiye Building (now Istanbul High School for Boys), and Ömer Abed Han.Details of Hotel
The hotel’s domed hall is a wonderful gathering place, social hub, and venue for balls. You’ll love the ample natural light that streams in through the glass domes on the ceiling throughout the day. And don’t miss the exquisite main chandelier, which features the 99 beautiful names of Allah, known as Esma-ül Hüsna.Hey there! Did you know that this hotel was the first building to use electricity and provide access to continuous hot water, following the Ottoman palaces?Celebrity Guests of Pera Palas
Pera Palas was originally built for passengers travelling on the Paris-Istanbul train route. Over the years, it has hosted many famous individuals. Our esteemed leader, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was the most notable guest who frequently stayed in Room 101 (now permanently reserved). The hotel has had the pleasure of hosting several notable political figures, including Shahs Mehmed Ali Qajar and Reza Pahlavi of Iran, King Edward VIII of England, King Peter of Serbia, German Ambassador Von Papen, and American First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.
Visitors can also explore Agatha Christie’s former room, which has been converted into a museum. It’s interesting to note that references to the hotel can be found in her famous work, ‘Murder on the Orient Express.’
The hotel has had the pleasure of hosting many distinguished guests, including Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria-Hungary, Shah Riza Pahlavi, Yugoslav President Tito, General Franz von Papen, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Greta Garbo, Sarah Bernhardt, Alfred Hitchcock, Pierre Loti, Jacqueline Kennedy, Ernest Hemingway, Ninette de Valois, Mata Hari, and Cicero…
Where? How to go?
Welcome to the Pera Palace Hotel, located in the charming neighborhood of Tepebaşı, on the way up to Beyoğlu in Istanbul. You’ll be in good company with the TRT building, the British Consulate, and Rixos Pera nearby. Not to mention, you’ll be just a stone’s throw away from some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including Istiklal Avenue, Nevizade Street, and Asmalımescit.
