Opening ceremony of Hamidiye Etfal Hospital showing large crowd and decorated stage

Şişli Etfal Eğitim Ve Araştırma Hastanesi

Visiting Şişli Etfal Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi Istanbul: Tickets, Hours & Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Şişli Etfal Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi is a monumental institution that embodies Istanbul’s medical evolution and Ottoman-era architectural splendor. Founded in 1899 by Sultan Abdülhamid II as the empire’s first children’s hospital, its legacy extends beyond healthcare into the realms of cultural heritage and urban history. Today, it functions as a multi-campus teaching and research hospital, while its original Şişli campus—featuring the iconic Hamidiye Clock Tower—remains a touchstone for visitors seeking to explore Istanbul’s storied past (wikiwand.com; Sisli Etfal Official Site). This guide offers a comprehensive look into the hospital’s origins, architecture, visitor experience, and practical advice for those wishing to learn more or plan a visit.

Historical Background

Foundation and Early Years (1898–1922)

The hospital was established following Sultan Abdülhamid II’s personal tragedy—the loss of his daughter, Hatice Sultan, in 1898. Instead of a traditional memorial, he was persuaded by Dr. İbrahim Bey to found a modern children’s hospital, marking a progressive leap in Ottoman healthcare. Construction began swiftly, and “Hamidiye Etfal Hastanesi” opened its doors on June 5, 1899, focusing on pediatric care (“Etfal” means “children” in Ottoman Turkish) (wikiwand.com; sislietfaleah.saglik.gov.tr). The hospital quickly gained prominence under Dr. İbrahim Bey’s leadership.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The campus is distinguished by the Etfal Hospital Clock Tower, designed in 1907 by Mehmet Şükrü Bey and adorned with Sultan Abdülhamid II’s tughra. This 20-meter structure, crafted from marble and Hereke stone, remains a celebrated example of late Ottoman design (en.wikipedia.org). Pavilion-style buildings and early clinical facilities, such as the Dermatology Clinic (est. 1902), underscored the institution’s commitment to comprehensive pediatric care (sislietfaleah.saglik.gov.tr).

Role During Wars and National Transformation

The hospital’s service extended to soldiers and civilians during the Balkan Wars, World War I, and the Turkish War of Independence, making it a critical medical center in times of crisis (wikiwand.com). Upon the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923, it was renamed “Şişli Çocuk Hastanesi” and came under state administration (hastanelerim.com).

Expansion and Educational Mission (1923–2000s)

During the Republican era, Şişli Etfal evolved into a comprehensive general hospital, eventually becoming a renowned center for medical education and research. Affiliated schools and training centers, such as the Şişli Nursing and Laboratory School, contributed to its reputation for producing generations of healthcare professionals and specialists (wikiwand.com; sislietfaleah.saglik.gov.tr; sislietfaleah.saglik.gov.tr).

Modern Developments and Relocation (2000s–Present)

Due to seismic safety concerns, the hospital’s core departments relocated to new campuses in Sarıyer (2018) and later Seyrantepe. The modern facilities are equipped for advanced care and safety, while the original Şişli campus retains its cultural and architectural significance (bg360.com.tr; wikiwand.com). Today, Şişli Etfal continues its educational and research missions across its campuses (hastanelerim.com).

Visiting the Historical Şişli Campus

Visiting Hours and Entry

Historical Campus: The gardens and Hamidiye Clock Tower are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for independent visits. There is no entrance fee.
Patient Visits: For those visiting patients, hours are generally 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, but may vary by department.
Guided Tours: Official guided tours are not offered by the hospital. However, private tours may be arranged through local agencies (gezibilen.com).

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible paths, elevators, and ramps are available on modern campuses, and the historical gardens are generally accessible, though some older structures may pose challenges.

Getting There

By Metro: Osmanbey station (Yenikapı–Hacıosman line) is a five-minute walk from the Şişli campus.
By Bus/Metrobus: Connect to Mecidiyeköy, then transfer to the metro.
By Car/Taxi: Limited parking is available; public transport is recommended during peak hours.

Visitor Amenities

Restrooms, prayer rooms, cafeterias, and pharmacies are available on site.
Outdoor areas are suitable for photography; indoor medical facilities are off-limits for photos.

Clinical Services and Hospital Role

Institutional Reputation

Affiliated with the University of Health Sciences, Şişli Etfal is nationally and internationally recognized for its expertise and research output (Sisli Etfal Official Site; Sisli Etfal Medical Bulletin). The hospital is a reference center for complex and advanced treatments.

Clinical Specialties

Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic)
General Surgery
Pediatrics and Neonatology
Psychiatry and Mental Health (Psychiatry Department Info)
Orthopedics and Traumatology
Gastroenterology, Radiology, Rehabilitation, and more (Sisli Etfal Medical Bulletin)

Appointment and Admission

Appointments are booked via the MHRS Online System or by calling 182. Outpatient clinics operate weekdays 08:00–17:00.

Facilities and Patient Support

Modern campuses offer multilingual staff, advanced medical technology, and services for international patients. Community outreach and global collaborations amplify its impact.

Practical Information

Address: Huzur Mah. Cumhuriyet ve Demokrasi Cad. No:1, Sarıyer, Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 373 50 00
Website: Şişli Etfal Official Site

Nearby Attractions

Explore the vibrant Nişantaşı district, Istanbul Military Museum, and other notable cultural sites in Şişli. The hospital’s garden and clock tower are especially recommended for those interested in Ottoman architecture.

Visitor Experience and Tips

Arrive during open hours (9:00 AM–6:00 PM) for the historical campus.
Wear comfortable shoes; the grounds are spacious.
Use public transport for convenience.
Bring a camera for outdoor historical photography.
Check the official website for updates before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the historical campus?
A: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM daily for the gardens and clock tower.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, the historical campus is free to visit.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No official tours, but private guides can be arranged.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, though some older buildings may present challenges.

Q: How can I make a medical appointment?
A: Via MHRS Online or by calling 182.

Visuals and Media

Official hospital website for virtual tours and images.
Gezibilen travel guide for photos and maps.

Explore More

For a deeper dive into Istanbul’s medical and urban heritage, visit related sites such as the Florence Nightingale Museum. For seamless planning, download the Audiala app for curated guides, real-time updates, and exclusive tips.

Summary

Şişli Etfal Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi stands at the crossroads of Istanbul’s history and modernity. The preserved Şişli campus, with its Hamidiye Clock Tower, offers a unique cultural excursion, while the Sarıyer and Seyrantepe campuses exemplify Turkey’s commitment to advanced healthcare. Whether you are a history buff, a medical professional, or a curious traveler, a visit to Şişli Etfal provides invaluable insights into the city’s past and present (wikiwand.com; Sisli Etfal Official Site; Sisli Etfal Medical Bulletin; gezibilen.com; MHRS Online).

References

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