Topkapi Palace. Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is the mysterious residence of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire and a real treasury. Photos of a number of buildings in Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace is a magnificent architectural monument of the 15th century. This majestic palace complex was erected on the initiative of Sultan Mehmet in 1479. For several centuries in a row, Topkapi was considered the main residence of the rulers of the Ottoman state. Today it's wonderful museum complex, which should be watched by everyone who has ever visited Turkish lands.

The name “Topkapi” translated into Russian means “cannon gate”. This name is justified by a historical fact: every time the padishah traveled outside his monastery, cannon shots were heard, which were carried throughout the area for several kilometers.

The palace architecture is extremely interesting. Topkapi includes 4 equal courtyards, each of which is famous for its unique attractions. The courtyards have a clear division, but at the same time they are all united by a high stone wall surrounding them.

First courtyard (Alay Meydanı)

One of the main attractions of the First Court, called by Europeans the “Court of the Janissaries,” is the Church of St. Irene. This is one of the first Christian shrines in Constantinople, which served for a long time as the main abode of the patriarch. The church suffered several times from various disasters (fire and earthquake), but was always restored. Even after the Ottoman conquerors came to these lands, the church building was not deprived of its Orthodox status, which is surprising, because the Turks usually remodeled Christian churches in the mosque. Ottoman warriors used the shrine as an armory for a long time (for 3 centuries). In the mid-19th century, a museum complex of antiquities and weapons was opened here.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the museum exhibition was disbanded, and today the Church of St. Irene (Aya İrini or Aya Irene) is increasingly used as concert venue because of the magnificent, mesmerizing acoustics. At the same time, the building has not lost its charm over the years and continues to attract tourists from all over the world.

Gate of Welcome (Babüsselam)

Of particular interest is the Orta kapa gate (Babüsselam or Gate of Greetings), also located in the First Courtyard. Through them you can get to the Second Palace Courtyard. Historical facts indicate that only the ruler himself had the right to enter on horseback through the arch of this gate, framed by two tower columns. The rest had to walk. Foreign guests of the residence used a different gate to enter. The gatekeepers carefully monitored this. On one side of the gate there was a waiting room in which visitors could wait for days, or even weeks, for an audience with the padishah. On the other side is the room of the executioner, who, by the way, had another position - head gardener. Under the gate, in the dungeon, there were prison cells in which prisoners sentenced to death were kept.

Entrance of the Sultan (Babıhümayun)

It is also interesting to admire the architecture of another gate leading to the First Courtyard. This is the third ceremonial gate, called “Entrance of the Sultan” (Babıhümayun).

Second courtyard (Divan Meydanı)

The second courtyard of Topkapi is known as "Divan Square". This territory was most often used for important receptions and state ceremonies.

Sofa (Divan-ı Hümayun)

In this courtyard there was a “Divan” (Kubbealtı or Divan-ı Hümayun), where high-ranking viziers led by the padishah met several times a week to resolve matters of national importance.

Tower of Justice (Adalet Kasrı)

Above the Divanna rises a tower of magnificent beauty and grandeur, bearing a very bright and succinct name - “Tower of Justice” (Adalet Kasrı), which originally served as an observation post.

Treasury (Dış Hazine)

The main asset of the Second Topkapi Courtyard after the Divanna is, of course, the Treasury (Dış Hazine). Today, a weapons museum complex has been founded in its building, in which an entire arsenal of weapons of various types is exhibited. historical periods, as well as samples of military uniforms and other paraphernalia used for uniforms.

Third Court (Enderun Avlusu)

Third Courtyard (Enderun Avlusu)

Another gate leads into this courtyard with the attractive name “Gate of Bliss.” Another name for them is the audience gate. Having passed through them, the visitor found himself in a huge throne room, above which towered the golden throne of the padishah, decorated with precious stones. The Sultan sat on it. All the rest were traditionally placed directly on the floor, on special pillows. To prevent anyone from hearing what was happening in the hall outside the door, a small but loudly murmuring fountain was built right next to the entrance.

Library of Ahmet the Third (III. Ahmed Kütüphanesi)

The central part of the courtyard is decorated with the library of Sultan Ahmet the Third (III. Ahmed Kütüphanesi). Once upon a time, real treasures of ancient literature were kept here. Today the books are displayed in other museum displays, but the library building is definitely worth a visit to admire the amazing Ottoman architecture. Here you can also see an amazing collection of items from the padishah’s wardrobe. Some of the most expensive exhibits are considered to be the children's caftan of Sultan Selim, as well as the robe of Mehmed the Conqueror, which, according to scientists, is already more than 5 centuries old.

Sultan's Treasury (Enderun Hazinesi)

But, of course, the most attractive place for a traveler in the Third Courtyard of Topkapi is the Sultan’s Treasury (Fatih Köşkü or Enderun Hazinesi). The variety of the collection of countless treasures made of gold, silver and gems is amazing! One of the most noticeable and expensive exhibits is the military armor of Mustafa the Third. The chain mail, made of iron, is decorated with a scattering of precious stones and covered with a layer of gilding. The Sultan's shield and sword are inlaid in the same way.

Throne of the Padishah

The throne of Padishah Murat the Fourth is called the real “pearl” of the treasury. It itself is made of rare ebony wood, and precious and semi-precious stones are scattered around its entire perimeter.

Topkapi Dagger

In another room there is another important exhibit - the Topkapi dagger (Topkapı hançeri). It was made by Turkish craftsmen as a gift to the Persian Shah. Many diamonds and several large emeralds adorn this dagger. True, he never reached the addressee. While the gift was on the way, the Shah was killed, so the Topkapi dagger returned to the treasury.

Almaz Kashikchi

The treasury also contains a huge Kaşıkçı elması diamond, the history of which is very interesting. According to legend, a certain poor man discovered this stone in a huge pile of garbage. Of course, the commoner did not know how valuable the gem was, and exchanged it at the market for 3 wooden spoons. Since then, the stone has been called the Spoonman's Diamond.

These are not all the exhibits from the Topkapi treasury. All the splendor of the rooms is difficult to describe in words; you need to see it with your own eyes at least once!

Fourth Courtyard (Dördüncü Avlu)

This courtyard is an example of harmonious beauty and peace. It was built exclusively for the padishah’s rest and solitude, so it is more reminiscent of a marvelous Garden of Eden. From here you can enjoy magnificent views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus Strait and the Princes' Islands.

Bagdat Pavilion

On the territory of the courtyard there are many terraces and pavilions, the most notable of which are the Bagdatsky and Revan pavilions, as well as the Sunnet room.

Sunnet Odasy

The Sünnet Odası room, as the name implies for those who have at least a superficial understanding of Muslim traditions, was intended for the obligatory circumcision ceremony of the Sultan’s heirs.

Revan Pavilion (Revan Köşkü)

The Baghdad Pavilion (Bağdat Köşkü) as well as the Revan Pavilion (Revan Köşkü) are magnificent monuments of Ottoman architecture, the appearance of which can be traced to the influence of the Persians. The buildings are light and elegant, but at the same time they look luxurious and monumental. You can look at the exquisite tiles that decorate the walls of the pavilions literally from top to bottom for hours and find more and more new details in them.

Opening hours of the Topkapi Palace Museum and cost of visiting in 2020

You can purchase tickets to Topkapi Palace, which provide skip-the-line entry, a floor plan of the palace and the necessary information from a representative who will guide you through the shortest route

The museum is closed on Tuesdays; also on the first day of Bayram it is open from lunch.

The entrance ticket costs 72 Turkish lira.

Entrance to the Harem is open every day except Tuesday and is paid separately - the ticket price is 42 Turkish lira.

For Museum Card holders, admission is free.

Audio guide – 45 liras.

During the winter period from October 2 to April 1: Topkapi Palace Museum, Harem and St. Irene Church are open from 09:00 – 16:45 (ticket sales until 16:00)

During the summer period from April 1st to October 2nd: The Museum, Harem and Church of St. Irene are open from 9:00 – 18:45 (ticket sales until 18:00)

The Church of St. Irene is open to the public from 9:00 to 17:00. Entrance fee is 30 Turkish lira. After 16:00 the ticket office is closed.

When visiting religious sites, try to adhere to the established rules in clothing: short shorts and miniskirts, as well as open blouses and strapless tops are not acceptable.

Baby strollers are not allowed into the museum.

There are several restaurants on the museum grounds.

Karakol Restaurant

In the First Courtyard there is the Karakol Restaurant, as well as a small cafe BKG Müze’nin Kahvesi. There is also such a cafe in the Second Courtyard.

Restaurant Konyalı lokantası

In the Fourth Courtyard there is the Konyalı Lokantası restaurant, which offers a magnificent view of the Bosphorus Strait.

How to get to Topkapi Palace:

From Sultanahmet station you need to walk past the front part of the Hagia Sophia Museum (Hagia Sophia), following the signs towards Topkapi Palace.

Address: Sultanahmet, Topkapi Sarayi, Binbirdirek Mh., Terzihane Sk 7.
Opening hours: from May to September from 09:00 to 19:00;
from October to April from 09:00 to 16:00.
Tuesday is a day off.
Cost of visit: 10 EUR; Entrance to the harem is paid separately - 7.5 EUR$
Russian audio guide - 5 EUR.

Topkapi Palace - residence of the Ottoman Empire

Istanbul - "The City of Universal Desire", as he was dubbed, looks like a wondrous oriental fairy tale, in which the mighty Genie, released by someone from Aladdin's magic lamp, united two continents in a loving kiss. It has become accessible, walking along the largest suspension bridge on Earth, connecting the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, to get from Asia to Europe. The city magnetically attracts countless tourists, captivating with the cries of restless seagulls, the enchanting music of the sea, dazzling with the grandeur of the palaces, the grandeur of the mosques, managing to appear somehow different every time.
An unforgivable mistake, having visited the magnificent city, is not to take advantage of the unique opportunity: to look at a real miracle - Topkapi Palace- pride Istanbul, which has many amazing stories associated with it, incredible secrets. Here the life of many sultans and the incomparable Roksolana passed, who won the heart of Suleiman, becoming from a powerless concubine his beloved wife, to whom the great padishah was faithful until his death. Their graves are located nearby in the Sulaymaniyah Mosque. Her tombstone, like her husband's, is topped with a large turban as a sign of recognition as the Sultana.

A little history

The residence is located in a picturesque corner of Cape Sarayburnu, where the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus flow into the waters of the Sea of Marmara. Strategically, the location was chosen extremely well: both continents are clearly visible from here. When pronouncing the word “palace”, the imagination pictures a luxurious building, but this building consists of a whole complex of buildings connected by terraces and courtyards.
In the 15th century, when the Turks managed to capture Constantinople, Mehmed the Conqueror ordered the construction of the residence of the padishahs in this area, which turned into the great Ottoman Empire, where its heart beat. From here 25 rulers ruled in turn. Here they were born, grew up, indulged in entertainment, ascended the throne, overthrew many, mercilessly threw them into prison dungeons, and brutally killed them.
For almost 4 centuries the palace managed to remain the Sultan's residence. In 1853, this mission moved to Dolmbahce Castle, built according to European canons, and Topkapi lost its former significance. Only widows or wives of deposed rulers remained to live there. In 1924, the building was handed over to the museum. The Istanbul monument preserves about 65 thousand exhibits from the rarest collection of the Muslim world.

Journey through the palace complex

On an area of 700 thousand m2, fenced off from outside life by a high wall, there were multiple buildings with courtyards, separated by walls. It turned out to be like a city within a city with a mosque, a prison, various pavilions, baths, a hostel and a school where employees and soldiers were trained. It was the cultural, administrative and educational center of the empire.
In front of the entrance there is a closed building with a beautiful fountain built by Ahmed III. However, its purpose is terrifying. After the execution in its waters, the executioners washed the blood from the tools and their own hands. And anyone who fell out of favor with the Sultan could be executed, even the heir to the throne. Since the blood of heirs was not supposed to be shed, pretenders to the throne were strangled.
The executioners were treated in a special way: they were forbidden to have a family and were buried in a separate place. In most cases these people were deaf and mute. To prevent the secret from being revealed, their tongues were cut out. Opposite the ominous fountain there is a gate leading inside the buildings.

First Court of the Ottoman State

Passing through these gates, it takes your breath away, imagining distant times when the ruler himself flew through them on his horse like a whirlwind, returning home in triumph. Here the heads of executed people were put on display. Having passed Bab-i-Humayun, you can get acquainted with everything that is hidden from prying eyes.
The vast area accommodates a hospital, a bakery, service and utility rooms are intertwined here with the Arsenal and the mint. The main attraction is the Church of St. Irina with wonderful acoustics, where they cried out to Allah in prayer. Nearby, in a large garden, there is a kingdom of flowers, exotic plants, fountains, gazebos, and well-groomed alleys. In the shade of overgrown trees, peacocks once walked with their tails fluffed up, gazelles and deer walked proudly and calmly. An intoxicating aroma emanated from the most beautiful roses; love itself was poured into the air, as passionate as that of Suleiman and Roksolana, who loved to relax in Gulhan among the blooming magnolias. Now it is a magnificent park accessible to everyone. Next you should head to the Gate of Greeting.

Purpose of the second courtyard

Only the ruler and his mother were allowed to cross the Bab-usel (as the gate was called) on horseback; the rest of the inhabitants had to walk, but they too rarely left the palace space. Foreign ambassadors languished in front of the walls, awaiting an audience with the head of state.
IN different directions the paths diverge. On the right side there was a huge kitchen. It was necessary to feed a large number of people, so over 800 people were engaged in preparing food: cooks and cooks, confectioners who knew how to feed holidays up to 10 thousand people. Here you can get acquainted with kitchen utensils, a rare collection of porcelain, glass, and silverware made in China and Japan. Among the enormous variety, of particular interest is the sea green table set, which changes color if the food provided turns out to be poisoned. It was a gift from God, since many of the sultans were sent to another world in exactly this way.
But the most significant place was considered the imperial council - the Divan, where statesmen gathered several times during the week to resolve and adopt important issues. In an exquisitely furnished domed room, a gilded lattice was installed above the place where the Grand Vizier sat. From the next hall, through it, the ruler himself vigilantly watched what was happening. No one knew when he eavesdropped on the conversation. The invisible eye of the Sultan served as a huge incentive for subordinates to conscientiously perform their assigned duties. Islamic architecture is distinguished by the incredible splendor of the ceiling, which is impossible not to pay attention to. Everywhere the ceilings are painted with the brush of a brilliant master with amazingly varied ornaments with a dominant red tint, decorated with stucco moldings filled with meaning: the dome is a symbol of friendliness, and the descending sphere in the form of a lantern means knowledge.
Above the Divan, the snow-white Tower of Justice rushes into the sky, speaking of the constant vigilance of the Sultan, a formidable judgment that overtakes everyone without exception. Nearby are the Treasury apartments. From here you get to the women's section, reserved for concubines.

Secrets of the Sultan's harem

What was he like? Beautiful women, ready to please the sexual fantasies of their master, catering to all his whims, or bitter tears, lack of rights, arbitrariness and unbearable suffering? Both. In the Islamic world, this harem was the richest; only one sovereign could afford this luxury. Beautiful captives of various ages and nationalities lived here, captured during the war. They were presented as a living gift. About 700 beauties occupied 3 thousand rooms for various purposes. There were no Turkish women, but there were Armenians, many Croatians, Georgians, Slavic girls, there is a mention of a Frenchwoman who was the cousin of Josephine Beauharnais. “And the maidens there are fresher than the fragrant roses scattered in their wavy locks,” Byron wrote about them.
They were given new names, taught the language, palace etiquette, oriental dancing, singing, playing musical instruments, and helped to master needlework. Many showed talent: they composed their own poems, like Roksolana, and wrote music. Each was given a small amount of money for personal needs, and artists were invited to entertain them.
The art of love was taught here. This gave the odalisque, who enjoyed success, the opportunity to become the mother of the Sultan’s children and even his wife. If their master did not show interest in her for several years, giving her a good dowry, she was successfully married off. Such brides were highly valued.
However, one should not paint harem life as overly sweet. Each beauty had her own responsibilities, there was strict discipline and a kind of hierarchy. The obstinate and rebellious representatives of the fair half were sewn into a bag and thrown through a stone chute into the bay. Ibrahim I distinguished himself with particular cruelty, drowning 280 women, receiving the nickname Madman. For the most part, the rulers were not cruel and despotic with their concubines; guilty girls were sometimes sent to the walls of the Old Palace. Eunuchs looked after them. These walls did not know orgies. Even the Sultan had no right to visit the female half without warning; he was obliged to report his visit. A cage with gilding does not cease to be a cage; when it got here, any one became the property of the ruler and freedom was only in the waters of the Bosphorus, where one was allowed to die.
After the ban on the slave trade in the 19th century. girls came here at the behest of their parents (this was considered prestigious for the family) or they were brought by deception. With different characters and temperaments, it was almost impossible to create peaceful conditions for coexistence. The atmosphere was filled with envy, squabbles, intrigues, and all kinds of conflicts, because each sought not only the right to give birth to a son, but also to see him on the throne.
There was constant supervision over both the odalisques and the heirs, because only one of them could take the throne, so the others were often mercilessly destroyed. The case of such a murder, based on true facts, is well revealed in the series “The Magnificent Century”. Suleiman gave the order to kill Mustafa, born of the concubine Makhidevran, suspected of treason. As the eldest, he was supposed to inherit power, but Roksolana wanted her son to take the throne. They say that the conspiracy was organized by her. The residents were outraged by the ruler's action, seeing in Mustafa the best, most worthy of all the brothers, more educated and wise.

Third courtyard

It was called the Inner Palace, you can get into it through the Gate of Happiness (Bab-us-saadet). This area, set in a lush garden with manicured lawns, many flowers and fountains, was intended for the reporting of government officials. Foreign guests were received in the Audience Hall. The Sultan sat on a golden throne inlaid with emeralds, listening to the Grand Vizier speak about the work done. Those present sat down directly on the floor. The hands of the visited ambassadors were held by eunuchs to prevent unwanted actions.
The library repository of Ahmet III was located nearby. Soft sofas beckoned to sit down and enjoy reading, and there was plenty to read. The library contained more than 3,500 different handwritten publications written in Turkish, Arabic and Persian. The manuscripts were moved to another building, but the opportunity was given to look at the Sultan’s clothing, formal and everyday, consisting of 2,500 items.
It is also saved here a real treasure trove jewelry made of gold, silver, rubies and emeralds, pearls. The abundance of jewelry fascinates the eye. In reality, not in the picture, you can look at the armor of Murat IV, see his throne. The next room contains an unusual dagger. The handle is decorated with gold big amount diamonds, among them three large emeralds sparkle, one of them hides a watch. The third room is famous for its phenomenal value - the Kashikchi Diamond, weighing 86 carats, the gilded frame contains 49 diamonds. It has the shape of a drop, resembling a spoon.
It ranks fifth in size in the world, ranking among the cursed diamonds, perhaps due to a strange, dishonorable appearance. According to legend, he was accidentally found in a pile of garbage by a poor fisherman. How could a beggar know what kind of jewel he had found? Why did the poor man need a stone? He, of course, wanted to sell it. The crafty buyer easily convinced the poor man that it was just a piece of glass, and the gullible man exchanged the find for three simple wooden spoons. What followed was a whole string of resales and exchanges; traces of him were discovered on French soil. It was rumored that Napoleon's mother owned it. One day the stone returned to Turkey, where it was noticed by the Sultan's entourage. But during this time it managed to acquire an evil reputation: its owners died a violent death. Perhaps this is the price of the injustice that began with the deception of the poor. Who knows.

Pavilion with sacred relics
There is a room here that you are allowed to look into, but it is forbidden to enter. She carefully keeps a tooth belonging to the Prophet Muhammad, hair from his beard, a sword and banner, the keys to the Kaaba, located in Mecca, but the most valuable thing is the prophet’s robe. Paying tribute to the saint, the Koran is read here day and night. Even members of the ruler's family were allowed to visit the premises only once a year, on the 15th day of Ramadan.
A large swimming pool adjoins it directly, with a carved fountain in its center. Turning on your imagination, it’s easy to imagine how well-groomed seductresses, inhabitants of the harem, splashed merrily in the clear water, exciting the blood of their master with playful water games.

The fourth courtyard is the Sultan's refuge

A cozy corner is reserved for the ruler. Here you can retire to a gazebo with a gilded roof, supported by four graceful columns, temporarily forget about troubles, enjoying peace and quiet, take a break from vain worries, anxious thoughts and surging problems. The sofa pavilion beckoned to lie down and relax with a hookah. Statues of wild animals were installed behind it. From the height of the marble terrace, framed by carved railings, where a light breeze plays, gently tugging at your hair, you have a wonderful view of the bay with ships sailing past.
They say that this was the favorite place of Ibrahim I. At sunset, he stood here for a long time, looking at the quiet blue surface of the water, but even in moments of peace, left alone with himself, he did not lose his characteristic vigilance and composure.
Being in this amazing palace, you feel like a spectator of one of Scheherazade’s wonderful fairy tales, and you really want to hold time between your palms a little, not letting it slip away, in order to watch this fabulous picture again and again...

Guide to Istanbul on our website.

The construction of Topkapi Palace began in 1460 by order of Sultan Fatih after the conquest of Constantinople. The construction site was located next to the Hagia Sophia mosque. Construction was completed in 1478, after which the palace was used as the administrative, educational and artistic center of the Ottoman Empire for the next four to four centuries. Topkapi Palace was surrounded by Gulhane Park, hiding it from city structures. total area Topkapi Palace is small - only 30 hectares. On this territory, four Topkapi courtyards were successively located, protected by fortress walls. In the mid-19th century, the sultan dynasty moved to the more modern Dolmabahçe Palace. The old Topkapi Palace loses its functions on April 3, 1924 and turns into the first museum of the Republic of Turkey. The museum's 300,000-piece collection has unique cultural treasures, including porcelain, silver and gold, portraits, weapons, jewelry and gifts, as well as the imperial treasury.

First courtyard at Topkapi Palace

Bab-i-Humayun is the main monumental gate in former palace Topkapi in Istanbul. Admission is now free, but at a limited time. On the left is the Church of Hagia Irene (the prototype of Hagia Sophia). Alaya Square, located in the first courtyard, is the largest in the palace and is surrounded by external service buildings, in the past - a bakery, workshops, hospital, etc. All ceremonies took place on Alaya Square, for example, the return of the Sultan from a military campaign. The Church of St. Irene was converted into a weapons storage facility and a military museum. Also on the right in the first courtyard there are ticket offices where entrance tickets to Topkapi Palace are sold.

Second courtyard at Topkapi Palace

The Gate of Greetings (Babüsselam) is the second monumental door leading to Topkapi Palace. At the moment, you can only enter it with an entrance ticket or a MuseumPass card. The inner part of the courtyard (Divan Square) served as a ceremonial center in the life of the eastern empire for many centuries. State decisions were made in a special building - Divan-Hyumayun. The Tower of Justice rises nearby. Attention is also worth paying attention to the weapons exhibition. Finally, in this courtyard there is the entrance to such an important building as the harem, with its own cash register (be sure to take an audio guide with you in Russian).

Third courtyard at Topkapi Palace

The Gate of Happiness (Babüssaade) led to the third courtyard of the palace. Behind them was the courtyard, the personal territory of the Sultan in the Topkapi Palace. Here were Agalar's personal mosque, Ahmed's library and the treasury of the empire. Entry here was strictly limited, however, VIPs and guests were honored to be received in the audience hall. In addition, the courtyard had its own observatory and a school for training the nobility. Nowadays, the most interesting museum exhibitions are located here. Experienced tourists immediately go to the third courtyard in the morning to avoid tedious hour-long queues.

The museum's storerooms are the most interesting exhibitions. The Qashiqqi diamond attracts attention, incredible big size; a box filled to the brim with large emeralds; the Topkapi dagger, which has no price based on the number of precious stones; various orders and decorations of the sultans; the authentic throne of Sultan Suleiman Kanuni. It is difficult to take a high-quality photo due to the fast movement and menacing shouts of the museum attendants. However, we found some interesting photographs for you.

Photos of the sultans' things (artifacts) in Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

Fourth Courtyard at Topkapi Palace

The fourth courtyard of the palace was the location of the Sultan’s recreational and walking areas. On each of their three sides they opened scenic views to the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus and Halić. On the territory there were small private green recreations - the Fig Garden and the Elephant Garden. In addition, from here you could go to Gulhane Park (in the area of the Gothic Column). The fourth courtyard was decorated with two marble Fountains. But the real decoration is the pavilions, in which the ruler of the empire could relax with his retinue without fear of being seen. The austere beauty of the tea kiosk is still amazing. Hungry visitors can dine in a small restaurant with a wonderful view of the Sea of Marmara and the ships sailing along it.

How to get to Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, buy a ticket costing 40TL Turkish Lira. If you want to visit the Harem, you will have to fork out another 25TL. The entrance to the cathedral is located within the boundaries of the Fatih district, on the historical peninsula of the Turkish metropolis. You can use the metro, tram and Marmaray lines to get to the museum from anywhere in the city. Getting off at the Sultanahmet stop of the T1 tram, follow to the Hagia Sophia Museum, going around it on the right, go to the first, Imperial Gate. For those who use Marmaray to come to the museum from the Asian part of the city, you should get off at the Sirkeci Station stop and follow to the Cağaloğlu-Vilayet exit. Next, take the T1 tram. If you are coming to personal transport, leave it at the numerous parking lots in the Sultanahmet area or right in front of the first gate to the palace.

What is the entrance fee to Topkapi Palace?

To login Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, buy a ticket costing 40TL Turkish Lira. If you want to visit the Harem, you will have to fork out another 25TL. Entrance to St. Irene's Cathedral costs another 20TL. In other words, the total costs per person fly away for 1000 rubles. Tickets can be purchased in cash if you wish using a credit card. Children under 18 years of age, adults over 65 years of age and persons with disabilities can enter the Topkapi Palace Museum free of charge. you can find detailed information about who can visit the museum for free on the official website of the museum. If you don’t want to waste time standing in line (sometimes up to 30-40 minutes), especially on holidays and weekends, purchase a MuseumPass card, which entitles you to free entry to the museum and other special discounts. However, the card does not work to enter the Harem!

Photos of a number of buildings in Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

The most beautiful and formidable Turkish palace, Topkapi, is located in the capital of the state - Istanbul. Translated, its name means “Cannon Gate”. And this name came from the tradition of giving an honorary cannon salvo at each entry and exit of the Sultan through his gates. The main Turkish palace has many popular names: “Palace of Sultan Suleiman”, “Palace of Hurrem Sultan”, “Palace of Tears”, “Palace of Weeping”. Since ancient times, this Sultan's residence has been the seat of government for the most part peace. Twenty-five sultans of Turkey, living here, held the reins of government of the gigantic Ottoman Empire in their hands.

Topkapi Palace occupies more than seven hundred thousand square meters in area, including the outer part - “Birun”, with official and public buildings and the inner part - “Enderun”, with private Sultan's chambers. This is a real city within a city, located in Istanbul, with four huge courtyards, several pavilions, mosques, fountains, baths, swimming pools and stables.

“Topkapi Sarayi” began to be built in 1475 by order of the Turkish Sultan Mehmed, who needed a working residence. The large-scale reconstruction and reconstruction of Topkapi was started by Sultan Suleiman, whose harem was located outside this palace, and he missed his beloved Hurrem, wanting to constantly be with her. Topkapi Palace was finally completed and ready for the resettlement of the Sultan's large family in 1540.

The main residence of the Ottoman Empire of Turkey amazes with its luxurious interiors and external beauty. This majestic complex structure has numerous hammams, kitchens, servants' rooms, and living quarters for the Sultan's family.

Tourists at the entrance to Topkapi Palace are greeted by the first front gate “Bab-i-Humayun”, built in 1478 by order of Sultan Mehmed II. From them you find yourself in the “Janissary Court”, where in ancient times there were guards, they received petitioners, and servants worked. In this courtyard is the Church of Hagia Irene, the oldest in Istanbul.

This temple survived many trials, there were fires several times, it suffered destruction from earthquakes, later it was converted into a mosque, and then into an armory. Today the “Janissary Court” houses “ Archaeological Museum", "Museum of the Ancient East", "Tiled Pavilion" - the oldest public building in Istanbul.

Through the “Bab-i-Selyam” gate you enter the second courtyard, where the “Executioner’s Fountain” is located. The fact is that in ancient times, executioners who carried out yet another death sentence washed their hands in its waters. According to the Ottoman tradition, the Sultan’s brothers were most often executed as unwanted pretenders to the Sultan’s throne, and such “justice” was administered by the “Topkapi Dagger” - museum exhibit, which today is in the palace treasury. It is very beautiful and decorated with precious stones, including large diamonds. In this very main courtyard of the Sultan's palace in Istanbul stands the Diwan Tower, where the Divan used to be held - a meeting of nobles appointed by the Ottoman overlord to important government positions. Here, the Sultan communicated with his subjects, met visitors, and had conversations with the chief vizier. In this courtyard there is the entrance to the harem of the Turkish Sultan, which is an intricate labyrinth of rooms, a series of beautiful living rooms, and living rooms of eunuchs. In the main courtyard there is an internal treasury, which is a long hall topped with eight domes. In the Treasury is richest collection armor, edged weapons. Here visitors can see gold and silver items, precious stones, beautiful rosaries, and boxes. And in former premises The kitchen houses a wide collection of tableware from China and elegant silverware.

A huge part of the palace complex was occupied by the Sultan’s harem – “Harem-i Humayun”. Translated from Arabic, “harem” means “forbidden.” And this is actually true, because outsiders were prohibited from entering the territory of the harem under threat of death. Today, the harem of Topkapi Palace is recognized as “ Historical monument Turkey" and taken under the protection of UNESCO. But tourists can get here on a tour, however, they only have the opportunity to get acquainted with its first floor, where the privileged women of the Sultan lived, and his numerous concubines were placed on the floors above. The harem rooms are magnificent in their interior: the walls, decorated by the best architects of the time, sparkle with gilded inscriptions in ornate Arabic script. Not one room of the harem is like another; each of them is decorated with an original mosaic.

Through the Bab-u-Saadet gate you enter the private chambers of the Turkish Sultan. There is the majestic “Throne Hall”, erected under Sultan Selim I. Behind this hall is hidden the “Library of Ahmed III”.

In the farthest corner of the third courtyard stands the “Pavilion of the Holy Robe”, it houses Islamic relics that Sultan Selim I brought in 1517 from his home, as well as from Mecca. These are priceless relics for Muslims: a tooth, a hair, a footprint, the robe of the Prophet Muhammad. There are also personal belongings of the first sultans.

In the fourth courtyard there are wonderful parks, swimming pools, pavilions, and gazebos. Here you can admire wonderful views of the Golden Horn Bay and the Bosphorus Strait.

As for the hammams of the Topkapi Palace, it is worth saying that under Sultan Suleiman the largest “Hurrem Hamam” was erected here, but now it is not only a historical and architectural monument, because it was recently restored and opened as a working hammam, where those who wish can undergo classical SPA treatments.

At the Topkapi Palace there is a mosque and the tomb of the Turkish Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and his beloved wife Hurrem Sultan, a former Slavic slave girl Roksolana, who rose to prominence thanks to her intelligence, dexterity, and sometimes cunning and cunning. This beautiful mosque with four minarets is the largest in Istanbul. There is a cemetery in her yard.

Topkapi Palace was the residence of the family of the Sultans of Turkey until the mid-nineteenth century, until in 1854, under Sultan Abdul Mecid, a decision was made to move to the more modern Dolmabahce Palace, since the “Palace of Tears” no longer met the requirements for holding official events. And in 1924, by order of the Turkish ruler Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Topkapi Palace became a museum open to everyone.

Opening hours of Topkapi Palace. You can visit Topkapi Palace every day, except for the day off - Tuesday. In the period from the sixteenth of April to the thirty-first of October - from nine in the morning to seven in the evening; from the first of November to the fifteenth of April - from nine in the morning to five in the evening. Ticket prices are forty Turkish liras, which is about six hundred and twenty Russian rubles. Entrance to the Topkapi harem is paid separately - twenty-five Turkish liras or three hundred eighty-six rubles.

In Istanbul (Topkapi Sarayi) is one of the main attractions of the city. For 400 years, Topkapi Palace was the main residence of the sultans. From here, 25 sultans of the Ottoman Empire ruled the country.

In one of the courtyards of Topkapi Palace

A little history

It was built after the conquest of Constantinople in 1475-1478 by order of Sultan Mehmed II (the Conqueror). At first, the Sultan himself lived in the palace, official meetings and meetings, receptions were also held here, and in the mid-16th century, at the request of Roksolana, Sultan Suleiman I built a Harem in the palace, where women and children settled.

How to get there

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is located in the center of the old city in the Sultanahmet district.

Take the T1 tram to the Gulhane stop and walk a little up, as if going back. By the way, there is a wonderful one nearby. Or get off at the Sultanahmet stop and walk down past Hagia Sophia.
If you are coming from the Asian side of Istanbul, it is convenient to use Marmaray and get off at Sirkeci station