Çırağan Palace & MEMEDER: 11 Years of Breast Cancer Awareness

Istanbul, 19 September 2025 – Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, a distinguished landmark with its iconic location along the Bosphorus, architectural grandeur, historical legacy and timeless elegance, once again highlights the importance of early diagnosis during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Palace continues its enduring collaboration with the Breast Health Society (MEMEDER), now in its 11th consecutive year, as a powerful initiative to support breast health awareness and extend its message to a wider audience.

As the only Ottoman imperial palace and hotel situated directly on the Bosphorus, dating back to the 17th century, Çırağan Palace Kempinski offers meaningful contributions throughout October to support MEMEDER and highlight the crucial importance of early diagnosis through the campaign themes #CiraganSarayiPembeOluyor and #MemeSagligimElimde.
 

Çırağan Palace Illuminates in Pink Throughout October

Throughout October, the iconic Bosphorus-facing façade and historic gates of Çırağan Palace are illuminated in pink. Employees wear pink ribbons on their uniforms as a visual gesture of support. MEMEDER’s management team conducts awareness training sessions for hotel staff. During their stay, guests are invited to make optional donations to MEMEDER by adding a contribution to their bills. Informational displays about early detection in breast cancer are placed in public areas and restaurants, while elegant pink floral arrangements adorn key locations around the Palace to welcome guests.
 

Elegant Touches for Awareness

The culinary team at Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul also plays a heartwarming role in an awareness campaign with pink delicacies. A striking giant pink chocolate model of the Çırağan Palace, crafted by the hotel’s patisserie chefs, is displayed in the lobby as a symbol of support. In addition, all proceeds from the pink ruby madlen chocolates shaped like Çırağan Palace and its historic gate, as well as from the sugar-free selections in the ‘Fit Flavours’ category available through the Çırağan Palace Shop and the hotel’s online shopping site, are donated to MEMEDER at the end of the month. Gazebo Restaurant helps raise awareness by placing informative cards on each table, and guests are offered pink baklava with their tea and pink madlen chocolates shaped in the silhouette of the Palace alongside their coffee.
 

Ralph Radtke, General Manager of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul and Regional Director of Kempinski Residences Türkiye, commented: ‘For 11 consecutive years, together with MEMEDER, we have initiated this meaningful project to enhance awareness and reiterate the importance of early diagnosis every October. Our joint endeavour not only reaches our esteemed international guests but also extends to positively impact the wider community. Under the pink glow of Çırağan Palace, we are proud to stand with our guests and employees colleagues in support of this significant cause.’
 

Prof. Dr. Vahit Özmen, Founder and Honorary President of MEMEDER, and President of the Senologic International Society, highlighted that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women both in Türkiye and around the world – yet it is a preventable and treatable disease when detected early. Stressing the crucial role of awareness and education, Prof. Dr. Özmen added: ‘Although breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among women, it is indeed preventable and treatable. To achieve this, women must be informed and understand the value of early diagnosis. Our longstanding partnership with Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul provides an exceptional platform to reach more women and raise awareness. Through the Palace’s pink lighting, numerous activities and educational efforts, we are collectively making a meaningful impact in society. I extend my gratitude to the management of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul for their unwavering support.’
 

Leman Otru, Chairwoman of the Board of MEMEDER, stated: ‘Over the course of our 11-year collaboration, the awareness initiatives conducted in partnership with Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul have allowed us to engage with more women each year and elevate social awareness regarding this vital issue. The path we have travelled together has involved more than mere events – it has garnered long-lasting influence in society, representing an important progression in advocating for women’s health. The dedication of the management and entire team at Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul has played a pivotal role in this journey. I offer my sincere thanks for their continued support. Together, we remain committed to reaching more women and advancing societal awareness of breast cancer.’