Armada hotel is located in the heart of Istanbul's historical peninsula, surrounded by the ancient city walls with views of two of the most magnificent masterpieces of world architecture, Haghia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Hotel Armada offers a unique experience to the visitor. Open for service since 1994, the building was constructed on the site of a series of row houses, which were built for the marine soldiers of the famed Ottoman Admiral Hayrettin Pasha (Barbarossa) in the 16th century. In reconstructing the building, old engravings depicting the houses were used, as the houses themselves were completely demolished during a fire. Armada Hotel was designed according to the facade architecture of the original buildings. Elements of modern comfort and convenience have been carefully blended into the historical atmosphere both in the exterior and in the interior design. The hotel features Armada Sera restaurant and Reis and Levent conference rooms. Hotel Armada has created a different kind of atmosphere in the ancient district of Ahirkapi, setting a successful example to the restoration of more historical buildings in the area, which are one by one being returned back to life. With new and different locations such as Armada Garden, Sabahattin The Fisherman, Ahirkapi Pastry Shop and Alafranga Restaurant, Armada has set a contemporary example of the "cluster model", which is deeply rooted in the traditional Turkish urban architecture. The rooms, decorated in the Ottoman style with traditional Edirnekari woodwork painting, are a graceful blend of past and present and offer all modern amenities; central heating and cooling, direct dial telephone, mini-bar, cable television, hair dryers and private safety boxes. There are 110 rooms, 16 of which are interconnected and 2 are fully equipped for wheelchair access. The private bathrooms are modern. They all have tub and hairdryers, with natural green and white soaps and specially knitted "Bursa" towels. Turkish style breakfast is served with an open buffet including home made jams and pastries from the Armada's own bakery.