Historical Bolu Government House

Bolu Government House is an important building where the administrative affairs of Bolu are conducted, much like the heart of a large city. This mansion is not merely a structure; it also preserves a long and fascinating story spanning Bolu’s history from the past to the present. When we look at it, we can see how much it has witnessed throughout the city’s journey.

Journey Through Time

Construction of the Bolu Government House began in 1811, which is exactly 214 years ago today. The person who decided to build the mansion was Hüsrev Pasha, the Mutasarrıf (governor) of Bolu at the time. However, Hüsrev Pasha was forced to leave Bolu before the construction was completed, and the project was finished by his overseer, İbrahim Pasha.

Historical Bolu Government House (Culture Portal)

Structure and Features

In its original form, the mansion consisted of two main sections: the official administrative quarters and the harem section where the governor’s family lived. The official section was three stories high and contained numerous rooms.

Historical Bolu Government House (Culture Portal)

Did It Undergo Changes?

Over its long history, the Historical Bolu Government House has unfortunately suffered damage from natural disasters such as fires and earthquakes. For example, during a fire in 1926, the roof was completely destroyed, and the building sustained damage in the earthquakes of 1944 and 1957. After these disasters, repairs were carried out during which one floor was removed, and the building continued to serve as a two-story structure. Some of the columns visible at the entrance may even date back to much earlier times, possibly from the Roman period.

Historical Bolu Government House (Culture Portal)

How Is It Used Today?

After numerous repairs and restoration efforts, the mansion was restored to its current form in 2006. Today, the Historical Bolu Government House serves as the Bolu Provincial Governor’s Office. Thus, it continues to be the place where the most important administrative decisions for Bolu are made.