From 18th century prison to elegant pampering

Talk of the town: This century-old former prison swapped jailbirds for guests to become a Four Seasons hotel in 1994.

From sadistic guards a la Midnight Express to personal butlers that cater to your every whim, much has changed in this grand building. Where inmates once were held in horrific conditions now willing captives are pampered in elegant, antique-filled surroundings.

Much of the prison structure remains, from the high walls and watchtower-like turrets of the main building, to the exercise yard turned garden. There’s no swimming pool - a Byzantine Palace is buried beneath the hotel - but the courtyard is perfect for al fresco dining on balmy evenings.

Escape to the roof terrace to watch the sunset over the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.