A historical place in Yıldız Palace; Malta Pavilion

The Malta Pavilion, commissioned by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1871, is one of the two historic pavilions built within Yıldız Park, a grove belonging to Yıldız Palace, located on Ortaköy Street in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. Designed in the Neo-Baroque style and featuring a two-story plan, the Malta Pavilion stands as a notable example of 19th-century civil architecture. Situated on a hill within the grove above the Coastal Palace (Sahil Sarayı), the pavilion was constructed as a scenic retreat for leisure and contemplation. At the outset of this thesis study, I conducted an in-depth investigation into the architectural characteristics of the Malta Pavilion and the historical period in which it was built. This process involved a comprehensive literature review focusing on the building materials, structural features, and architectural style of the pavilion. Special attention was given to its architectural idiom, its relationship to contemporary art movements, and its similarities to other structures from the same era. Another stage of my research involved an analysis of the pavilion's surrounding environment. The location of the Malta Pavilion, along with environmental factors and its relationship to the natural landscape, was of critical importance for understanding how these elements influenced its architectural design. In this context, I examined the impact of local climatic conditions and the surrounding social fabric on the pavilion's design. The study also placed significant emphasis on the interior layout and functionality of the structure. I conducted detailed analyses of spatial organization, natural light, and airflow, and how these factors shaped the overall design. Additionally, the historical uses of the pavilion and the restoration works it has undergone were evaluated. In the conclusion, I synthesized the findings of my analyses to underscore the architectural significance of the Malta Pavilion. I demonstrated how the structure reflects the architectural understanding of its era through both its aesthetic and functional qualities, and I highlighted its importance in terms of contemporary preservation and restoration practices. This thesis aims not only to present an architectural study but also to serve as a valuable resource for the conservation of architectural heritage and its transmission to future generations. In this way, my research on the Malta Pavilion seeks to contribute to architectural values from both academic and practical perspectives. Keywords: Yıldız Park, Malta Mansion, II. Abdülaziz, Mansion Architecture.