Turkish Gardens
Photo by Gursan Ergil
During our garden tours, those intrigued by my research into Ottoman-Turkish gardens often ask me the same question: What is a Turkish garden? This question can be challenging to answer when focusing solely on contemporary gardens. However, exploring the remaining historical gardens and diving into the relevant literature reveals a remarkable garden culture that has flourished for over 600 years.
The gardens of the classical Ottoman period, from the 15th to the 18th century, remain largely unknown to all but historians and passionate enthusiasts. Yet, they epitomize the pinnacle of Turkish garden culture. During this era, gardens were crafted with profound love and respect for nature. Key elements such as natural water sources, majestic trees, breathtaking vistas, and gentle breezes were vital in selecting a garden location. Small fountains, serene ponds, and charming kiosks adorned these landscapes, while monumental trees like cedars and plane trees represented the harmonious interplay between humanity and nature. Istanbul, the imperial capital established by Mehmed II, became the vibrant heart of Ottoman garden culture. Following its conquest, the Byzantine vineyards, gardens, water systems, and cisterns were lovingly restored and maintained by skilled Greek gardeners, who played a vital role in preserving this legacy. The Ottomans also inherited valuable botanical literature from the classical period, enriching their knowledge.
The creative explosion of the Ottoman garden, spanning the 15th to the 18th centuries, left an indelible mark on contemporary Western gardens. For instance, landscape architects drawing from the historic Eyüp and Karacaahmet cemeteries in Istanbul transformed the design of monumental cemeteries like Pere Lachaise and Kensal Green in the 19th century, concepts regarded as groundbreaking in Western circles.
In the Ottoman garden, indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly merged. This is beautifully reflected when comparing the gardens of the 16th century to those of the Renaissance. While Renaissance architects designed open-air rooms adorned with statues, grand staircases, balustrades, and terraces, the Ottomans uniquely infused nature into their architecture with stunning decorative tiles featuring floral patterns, in-room fountains, and carpets depicting lush gardens.
As times changed, so did Ottoman tastes. By the 19th century, classical Ottoman gardens were gradually replaced by gardens in Western styles. Many foreign gardeners, including Anton Melling, arrived in Istanbul to create imperial and private gardens. By the late 19th century, gardens in France, Germany, and Italy's enchanting styles began to dominate Istanbul’s landscape, weaving a new tapestry of beauty and inspiration.
Photo by Gursan Ergil
