An incredibly elegant pavilion, which isn't just a pretty building, but which has beautiful contents and meaning — since the early 20th century, this former observation pavilion for sultans was used for literary gatherings. So now it is converted into a museum of Turkish literature / writers, that is also a functioning library where scholars can read, work, and meet. It really feels like a house for enlightened people of letters to meet and think, with cozy tables here and there, a study room, a small auditorium for lectures and concerts, a divanhana for private discussions and two beautiful rotundas. It's dedicated to a famous Turkish writer Ahmed Tanpinar, who apparently wrote something like a Turkish 'Ulysses', but wasn't properly appreciated in his lifetime. Now I really want to read his novel! This pavilion made my day. (Oh, entrance is free and photos are technically not allowed, which I decided to honor).

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Level 26 Local Expert

The Alai Pavilion in Istanbul is a small but very atmospheric place. It is located at the very wall of the Topkapi Palace, next to the entrance to Gulhane Park. The architecture is beautiful and expressive: a light tower with a dome, carved windows, antique details — all this goes well with the historical surroundings. Previously, the pavilion was used as an observation point for the sultan — from here he watched parades and processions. Now there is a Literary Museum inside, it is small, but cozy and tastefully decorated. The atmosphere is calm, there are few tourists, you can slowly explore the building and the surrounding area. The place is well suited as a short stop during a walk through the old town. Everything is neat, quiet, and you can feel the spirit of the times. If you are walking around Sultanahmet and are interested in history, it is definitely worth a look here.

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Level 6 Local Expert

Alay Köşkü A small pavilion at the entrance to the park, built into the palace wall. Once upon a time, the sultans watched the parades from here, and some of them practiced archery from here. Today it is a museum of literature and a free point of interest.

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Alay Pavilion

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