Turkish TV Trails: Exploring Iconic Filming Locations

Magnificent Century: Filming Locations and Historical Details in Istanbul

    "Magnificent Century" (Muhteşem Yüzyıl), a production about the peak period of the Ottoman Empire and the life of Suleiman the Magnificent (Muhteşem Süleyman), attracted great interest not only in Turkiye but also worldwide. The shooting locations, which create the impressive atmosphere of the series, were largely inspired by the architectural details of the Ottoman period and the historical buildings of İstanbul. Here are the main locations where the series was filmed in İstanbul and the history of these locations:

Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı)

History: Built in the 15th century by Mehmet the Conqueror (Fatih Sultan Mehmet), Topkapı Palace was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. 

Role in the series: Although Topkapı Palace was not directly used in the palace scenes of the series, the set designs were inspired by the architecture of the palace. Especially for the Harem, Kubbealtı and Divan-ı Hümayun scenes, the details of Topkapı were carefully analysed.

Details: The palace interiors (e.g. the Harem apartment), the courtyards surrounded by porticoes and the ornate domes were often recreated in the series. The elegant tiles of the palace and the wall details with calligraphy were reflected with great care, especially in the Harem scenes.

Hadımköy Studio Complex (Closed Sets)

History:A modern film studio in Hadımköy, Hadımköy was built to recreate the Ottoman period locations. 

Role in the series: A large part of the series was filmed on the palace sets built in these studios in İstanbul. From the palace walls to the throne rooms, everything was detailed by considering historical reality and art aesthetics.

Detail: The studios were designed close to the actual dimensions of Topkapı Palace and handmade replicas were used instead of real tiles to reflect the texture of the period. Ottoman motifs and pen work were prominent in the decorations. A Galata Tower with a diameter and height of 10 metres and a mezzanine was also built on the plateau. On the plateau; 750 square metres of landscaping was done. 150 large-sized trees and 600 medium-sized plants were planted. (https://arsiv.turkiyegazetesi.com.tr/kultur-sanat/muhtesem-platolar-442223)

Eminönü and Süleymaniye Complex Surroundings

History: The Süleymaniye Mosque and its surroundings were built by Sinan the Architect on behalf of Suleiman the Magnificent and is one of the most important symbols of Istanbul.

Role in the Series: Scenes may have been inspired by the Süleymaniye Complex to depict Kanuni's daily life in Istanbul and his influence among the people.

Detail: The narrow streets leading to the mosque, the stone-paved courtyards, and the large courtyards of the complex could have served as a natural reference for the series' decor.

Yıldız Teknik University's Davutpaşa Campus

Role in the Series: The campus provided an authentic Ottoman architectural backdrop for some exterior scenes.

Details: The historical campus at Davutpaşa, known for its Ottoman-era design, likely hosted scenes requiring grand open spaces or historical urban elements. Its timeless ambiance added depth to the storytelling, seamlessly blending with the series' aesthetic.

Kemerburgaz Forests

Role in the Series: Served as the primary location for battle scenes and depictions of Ottoman military campaigns.

Details: A custom outdoor set was constructed in the Kemerburgaz forests, allowing for expansive, action-filled battle sequences. The natural environment complemented the dynamic storytelling of war scenes.

Üsküdar

History: These neighbourhoods of Istanbul on the Bosphorus were known for their tranquility and architectural beauty during the Ottoman period. 

Role in the Series: Üsküdar, Ottoman neighborhood associated with the Bosphorus view, may have served as an inspiration for the outdoor scenes in the series.

Details: The unique Bosphorus view might have influenced the background of romantic scenes, such as the emotional speeches between Kanuni and Hürrem Sultan.

Historic Fountains and Streets

History: Many historical fountains and narrow streets of İstanbul were used to show daily life in the Ottoman period.

Role in the series: The authentic structures of neighborhoods like Sultanahmet and Balat may have served as inspiration for the public scenes set outside the palace.

Details: While the natural appearance of the stone streets may have influenced the filming, the atmosphere of the period was likely enhanced by the accessories used in the series.

Galata District

History: Reflecting the cosmopolitan structure of the Ottoman Empire, Galata was an area where foreign merchants were concentrated.

Role in the series: The historical texture of Galata may have inspired scenes depicting the commercial activities and vibrant life of the period.

Details: Narrow stone streets, wooden structures and old inns supported the authentic atmosphere of the series.

Meriç Bridge-Edirne Photo by Nihal Sönmez on Pexels

Edirne

Role in the Series: Additional battle scenes and military movements were filmed in this historically rich region.

Scenic Outside Cafe Table Overlooking Old Bridge  Photo by Aleyna Demir on Pexels

Details: The landscapes of Edirne added historical depth and geographic authenticity to scenes requiring a broader representation of the Ottoman territories.

Contribution to the Historical Atmosphere of the Magnificent Century

    ‘Magnificent Century’ combined both historical locations and modern studio technologies in its filming, offering viewers an authentic Ottoman-era experience. This contributed to the series' high reputation as a historical drama both in Turkiye and abroad. The historical richness of İstanbul provided a unique setting for this type of production and brought the glorious life of Suleiman the Magnificent to modern screens.