The Pera Palas changed the landscape of Istanbul: designed by the French architect Alexander Vallaury whose works also include Union Française and the Ottoman, it is said that Sultan Abdülhamit attended the opening ceremony in 1891. From the time of its opening until today, Pera Palas had been frequented by well-known and highly-placed figures in the political world; such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Ismet Inönü, King Zogo of Albania, Shah Riza Pehlevi of Iran, King Edward VIII of England, King Ferdinand of Bulgaria, King Carol of Romania, president Tito of Yugoslavia, Jacqueline Kennedy and Agatha Christine. Pera Palas was renovated from top to bottom without destroying the historic qualities. There can be no doubt that Pera Palas, which lived through the Ottoman decline, the founding of the Republic, two world wars and changing political, social and economic conditions will become the scene of new romances and scenarios in the future. The hotel is located in the colourful neighbourhood of Pera, 10 minutes walk from the famous Istiklal Street and Taksim Square; the airport is at a distance of 25 km.