Kütahya Old Government Mansion, built in 1905 by Ahmet Fuat Pasha of Crete, is the only structure with its exterior facade covered in Kütahya tiles, and today it is used as the Palace of Justice.
Kütahya Old Government Mansion was built in 1905 by the then governor Ahmet Fuat Pasha of Crete and completed in 1907. The most striking aspect of the building is its exterior facade: being the only mansion example covered with Kütahya tiles places it in a unique position within late Ottoman architecture. The building was constructed on the site of the Germiyanid Principality Palace, which previously stood in this area.
Inside, there is a small mosque with tile-decorated walls, but to see this, one needs to know the building's current function: since 1986, it has been used as the Palace of Justice, meaning it is an active courthouse. This practically makes entry difficult for visitors. The main visit involves examining the exterior facade and tile decorations. The building acquired its current form after a restoration in 1999.
It is located 200 meters from the city center, in Saray Mahallesi, on Fuat Paşa Caddesi. It easily fits into a route connecting to other historical points of Kütahya (castle, Ulu Mosque, tile workshops) by walking.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Kütahya historical places, Kütahya Bedestens.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The building can be seen from the outside all year round, so there are no major seasonal restrictions. Daytime hours, especially before noon, are more suitable for noticing the details and colors of the tiles on the facade. In winter months, early darkening weather can make photography difficult.
How to Get There
The mansion is only 200 meters from Kütahya city center, in Saray Mahallesi on Fuat Paşa Caddesi. It is easily accessible by public transport or on foot. If you are coming to Kütahya with your own car, finding short-term parking nearby is usually not difficult.
City Location
The structure is located on the same walking route as other stops near Kütahya's historical center. It can easily be included in a city tour planned with points such as the Castle, Ulu Mosque, and tile workshops.
How Much Time to Allocate
Since the mansion is only viewed from the outside, 10-20 minutes is sufficient. It is more logical to combine this time with other historical structures in Kütahya city center and turn it into a half-day city walk.
Things to Note
The building has been used as an active Palace of Justice since 1986. Therefore, entry is not possible due to it being a courthouse. The visit is limited to examining the facade and tile details. Wandering around the building outside official working hours offers a calmer experience.
Photo Spots
Shots taken directly opposite the facade best capture the breadth and symmetry of the tile decorations. Taking photos from a little further back on the opposite sidewalk makes it easier to frame the entire facade of the building.
Historical Background
The mansion was built during the tenure of Kütahya governor Ahmet Fuat Pasha of Crete (1893-1908). The area where the building stands was previously home to the palace of the Germiyanid Principality. The facade tiles, completed in 1907, reflect the craftsmanship of Kütahya tile masters of the period and constitute a unique example with this feature.
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