The Ihlamur Valley, located between the hills, has a rich historical background dating back to the 18th century. Initially a serene country retreat, this picturesque spot was shaded by plane and linden trees, with the Fulya stream meandering through its heart. The lower section of the valley, home to the Ihlamur Pavilion, was once the property of Hacı Huseyin Aga, the esteemed administrator of the imperial harbour during the reign of Sultan Ahmed III. Over time, it was transformed into an imperial garden, complete with archery stones marking the shooting prowess of Sultan Selim III and Sultan Mahmud II. During the reign of Sultan Abdulmecid, the valley was further developed into the "Conversation Garden", bragging terraced landscapes and lush greenery. The French poet Lamartine stayed at Ihlamur Pavilion in 1846 as a guest of the Sultan. In his memoirs, he described Ihlamur and its surroundings as follows: “The building faces a garden with beautiful chestnut trees and big linden trees from which the valley took its name. In front of the three-stepped stairs of the pavilion, there is a small fountain shorter than the branches of jasmine whose water falls into the marble pool with a sweet gurgle. Ihlamur is Sultan’s favourite pavilion, where he rests and meditates”.
In place of this modest pavilion that Lamartine mentioned, Sultan Abdulmecid had two pavilions built between the years 1848 and 1855 and renamed this place “Nuzhetiye” which means “relief, freshness, joy, and happiness.”
Under Sultan Abdulaziz's rule, the imperial garden became a hub for entertainment and wrestling matches, continuing to be a cherished retreat for successive sultans and their families. Following the proclamation of the Republic, the Ihlamur Pavilion was entrusted to the Istanbul Municipality in 1951 and later became part of the National Palaces in 1966. After extensive restoration, the pavilion unveiled to the public in 1985, offering a glimpse into their opulent past. The Ceremonial Pavilion, distinguished by its baroque-styled staircase and exquisite relief decoration, served as the Sultan's office and venue for grand receptions. In contrast, the Retinue Pavilion exudes traditional Ottoman architecture, adorned with stucco work imitating marble in vibrant hues. The interior of the pavilion reflects the 19th-century Ottoman preference for Western-style decor, featuring an array of European furniture and furnishings that harmonize with the ornate surroundings.
The Maiyet Kiosk, frequented by the sultan's entourage and occasionally by his harem, is less elaborate than the other building. It follows a more traditional layout, featuring corner rooms that open up to a central seating area. The walls of the Maiyet Kiosk are adorned with stucco resembling marble in various colors. While the ceremonial Kiosk of Ihlamur Pavilions is accessible to the public as a museum palace, the Maiyet Kiosk is set up as a winter cafeteria. Additionally, the garden surrounding the pavilion, including the area around the Maiyet Kiosk and the pool, is utilized as a summer cafeteria.