Yalı, a word that dances on the lips like a gentle breeze, conjures images of opulence, history, and the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus. These waterfront mansions, gracing the European and Anatolian shores of Istanbul, are more than mere buildings—they are living testaments to a bygone era.

Architectural Poetry

Yalıs are architectural poems etched in wood and stone. Traditionally constructed from wood, they epitomize the Ottoman aesthetic. Imagine intricate latticework, ornate balconies, and windows that frame the ever-changing panorama of the Bosphorus. Each yalı tells a story—a tale of merchants, statesmen, and artists who sought refuge within its walls.

A Seaside Retreat

Owners of yalıs cherished their waterside abodes. These were not just houses; they were sanctuaries where families escaped the bustling city. Away from the grand konaks and imposing köşks, the yalı offered tranquility. Here, the lapping waves replaced the city’s clamour, and the sea breeze whispered secrets.

The Oldest Survivors

The Amcazade Köprülü Hüseyin Pasha Yalı, built in 1699, stands as the oldest surviving yalı. Its halls echo with centuries of conversations. Across the strait, the Şerifler Yalısı, erected in 1780, bears witness to changing tides and owners. These venerable structures wear their age with grace.

The Erbilgin Yalısı

Among the constellation of yalıs, the Erbilgin Yalısıshines brightest. Nestled in Yeniköy, it exudes elegance and sophistication. In 2007, Forbes crowned it the fifth most expensive house globally, with a staggering price tag of $100 million. Its halls harbor echoes of lavish parties, whispered intrigues, and timeless beauty.

A Living Legacy

Today, yalıs continue to captivate. Their wooden facades may weather, but their allure remains undiminished. 

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the Bosphorus, these mansions stand as guardians of Istanbul’s soul—a reminder that time flows like the currents, but beauty endures.