The decoration of the rooms and chambers of Hurrem Sultan in the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Turkey: photo and video tour of the residence. Topkapi Palace in Istanbul (Topkapı Sarayı) Sultan's chambers of Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is one of the most colorful attractions. Here Selim the Drunkard drowned in a bathhouse, Ibrahim the Mad went crazy, Suleiman the Magnificent shone and the famous Roksolana weaved intrigues.

The museum contains priceless treasures of the sultans, the cloak of the Prophet Muhammad and even one Christian shrine - the right hand of John the Baptist. There are also beautiful mosaics and stained glass windows, gardens and flower beds, fountains and gorgeous views of the Bosphorus.

Whole 400 years Topkapi Palace served as the main residence of the sultans. As many as 25 sultans Ottoman Empire We lived in this magnificent place!

The palace complex was built in the middle of the 15th century on the site of the Byzantine Acropolis by order of Mehmed the Second (the Conqueror). At first, the Sultan himself lived in the palace, arranging official receptions and meetings here. But already in the middle of the 16th century Sultan Suleiman I, at the request of Roksolana, built a harem of the Topkapi Palace on the territory, where his wives and children settled.

"Topkapi" is translated as "cannon gate". A cannon shot was fired whenever the Sultan left or returned to his residence.

The area of ​​the palace complex is 700,000 sq.m. At one time, a shelter, a treasury, an armory, and something like the Turkish government could easily fit here. Well, and of course, stables, bakeries, terraces with fountains and luxurious gardens... History says that all this luxury was served by about five thousand servants!

Visually, the territory of the palace is divided into four courtyards - each with its own gate. The first and second courtyards belonged to the outer part, the third and fourth - to the inner part.

IN First yard one can enter through the main Gate of the Lord, decorated with marble and verses from the Koran. It's there now Archaeological Museum, the old Mint, the Church of St. Irene and many picturesque fountains, gardens and pavilions. The ticket office for entering the museum is also located here.

In Second yard enter through the giant Gate of Greetings. The yard is beautiful park with a harem, bakery, stables and palace hospital around the perimeter. Here the Sultan received guests and “communicated with the people.”

Login Third courtyard(the heart of the imperial palace) opens through the Gate of Happiness (Gate of the White Eunuchs or Gate of Bliss). Lush gardens, a throne room, a library, a treasury and a harem - what else is needed for the working days of a sultan?

Well and Fourth yard with several terraces and pavilions, it was once considered the personal territory of the Sultan.

In 1923 By order of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Topkapi Palace was declared a museum. Now here are unique collections of the Sultan’s household items and, of course, the richest Sultan’s treasury!

2. Useful information

2.1. Where is

In the center of old Istanbul in the Sultanahmet area on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, a 15-minute walk from and.

The entrance to the palace is easy to find by following the signs:

Location on the map:

2.2. How to get there

  • Book an excursion

A tour is a great way to visit Topkapi Palace. And the transfer will be included in the price, and the guide will tell you a lot of new and interesting things. The excursion can be booked either at your hotel or online. By the way, many sightseeing tours in Istanbul include visits to Topkapi Palace:

  • Light Rail

On light rail T1 get to the Sultanahmet stop. If you stand with your back to tram tracks, leaving the carriage, the Blue Mosque will be on the right, and the palace on the left.

  • On foot

The museum can be easily reached on foot from Aksaray, Laleli, and Gulhane.


Opposite the archaeological museum is another sign towards Topkapi Palace:

  • Taxi

Traditionally, taxis are the most convenient, but also the most expensive form of transport in Turkey. You can simply catch a taxi on the street, you can order it at the hotel, or you can order it in advance private transfer.

2.3. Visiting time

The museum is open to tourists from 09.00 to 17.00(from November to mid-April) and from 09.00 to 19.00(from mid-April to late October).

2.4. Price

Box office with tickets to the palace. Entrance price to the territory – 60 liras, to the harem - 35 liras, both included - 95 liras:

You can also buy a ticket in advance. This ticket includes transfer from the hotel and will avoid queues.

Not all lounges are open daily. Next to the ticket office there is a sign indicating the pavilions available for visiting:


It operates at Topkapi Palace. So if it is available, there is no need to stand in line:


3. Photo walk around the palace

The ticket office and entrance to the palace are located in different places. Here you can see the entrance with turrets, but first we go to the right to the ticket office (that’s where the crowd comes from) to buy a ticket:

Main Gate (“Welcome Gate”):


Above the entrance there is something in Arabic:


We enter the territory. In the center there are green lawns, along the perimeter there are rooms with halls and exhibitions:

Palace grounds:

Typical tour group:

The territory is very pleasant - once upon a time the sultans lived here with their retinue:

There is greenery everywhere, monuments and monuments at every step:

The walls are decorated amazingly:

You can rent an audio guide for 20 liras:

Conference hall:

This room used to look something like this:


We enter the pavilion with a unique collection of watches. It’s a pity that photography is prohibited in many places of the palace:


I took a photo secretly behind the guard's back. The watches in the collection are very different: from miniature wristwatches to floor-standing giants with complex mechanisms. The watch collection is one of the best displays in the entire palace:


The palace has a separate room with portraits of all the reigning sultans:


Entrance to the treasury of the Ottoman sultans. Unfortunately, photography indoors is also prohibited:


What's not there! An amazing collection of jewelry: emeralds, rubies, pearls, jade, diamonds, gold and silver... There is also the throne of Sultan Murat IV made of expensive ebony with inlays. And an Indian music box made of pure gold. And the famous Topkapi dagger: with a golden handle, a bunch of diamonds and three giant emeralds. And even a valuable gift from the Russian Tsar Nicholas I (a stunningly beautiful order with precious stones).

The treasury also contains the Kashikchi Diamond or the Spoonman’s Diamond (an 86-carat diamond surrounded by 49 diamonds). According to legend, a poor man found it in a heap of garbage and, without thinking twice, exchanged it for three wooden spoons.

The palace offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Ideal point for photography:


There are many cafes on the territory:

The place is popular, there are a lot of tourists, so the prices are much higher than average:


But you can drink coffee and enjoy the gorgeous views:


A huge plane tree that is more than 700 years old:


General diagram of all the buildings of the palace. The first courtyard, where tourists enter immediately after the turnstiles, is highlighted in different colors. Already from the diagram it is clear how large an area the palace complex occupies:


On the side of the strait there is a neat garden with roses:


A lot of rooms on the territory are allocated for kitchens. The photo shows a diagram of these rooms. The arrows in the diagram indicate the recommended workaround:


Arrow towards the kitchen:


Unfortunately, photography is prohibited inside the premises. Kitchen utensils from different eras are displayed there, from giant cooking vats to elegant cutlery. The vats are really gigantic; you could probably boil a whole bull in there. There are a lot of dishes made of pure gold: spoons, tureens, dishes.

Farthest courtyard with benches:


View of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. On right - :


This building was closed:


Opposite it is a nice pond with water lilies:


Another room of the palace:


At this point in the palace the moon appears earlier than in the rest of the territory. Therefore, it was here that the Sultan ordered the construction of a special gazebo for meals during Ramadan (when eating is allowed only after sunset). While mere mortals are patiently waiting for sunset, the Sultan can already begin dinner:

Description of the gazebo:


Small copy of Topkapi Palace:

Have you noticed that there are not many tourists in the first photos? This is because it was early in the morning. Here's what's happening around lunchtime:

So it’s better to come early, otherwise you’ll have to wander around the palace in such a crowd.

4. Conclusions

The Sultan's Palace is a very beautiful and colorful place that is definitely worth a visit! Beautiful territory, gorgeous views, interesting buildings, rich expositions... Somewhat reminiscent of . But we liked the option in Turkey no less.

I was especially impressed by the treasury of the sultans and the hall with a unique collection of unusual watches of gigantic size. The treasury contains simply incredible exhibits of stunning beauty!

We spent about two hours exploring the entire palace. At the same time, we only looked at the palace itself; we did not go to the territory of the Harem.

We came to the museum at 9.45 am– and there were relatively few people. But by noon, an impressive crowd had already gathered near the ticket office. By the way, Topkapi Palace is that rare case when exploring the museum with a guide is more interesting than without one. You can at least take a guidebook to read the history of the different rooms - it’s much more interesting than just wandering around the territory.

5. Video

We filmed in the palace short video. You can view it here:

Have you already been to Topkapi Palace? What impressed you the most? Have you watched the series “The Magnificent Century”? Does it convey the atmosphere of Topkapi Palace or is the real picture and the image on the screen very different? I haven’t watched the series, but after visiting Topkapi I wanted to watch it, would you recommend it or not?

By the way, if you are just going to Istanbul, but have not yet chosen a hotel, then I advise you to look on the hotellook search engine website (there you can find the best deals from 40 booking systems) or choose one of these inexpensive hotels with good rating: out of 5)

Majestic, monumental and luxurious Sultan's palace“Topkapi” (Top Kapi) in Turkey, like a magnet, attracts tourists from all over the world.

Once you go there, you will plunge into a world where twenty-five Turkish sultans once lived and ruled. It is better to set aside a whole day to tour the palace. You won't be able to see everything at once.

Therefore, before you go on an exciting journey through the palace, we advise you to read our article so as not to miss anything.

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History of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

For four decades, the heart of the Ottoman Empire was Top Kapi, Türkiye, the palace (photo of the harem in our article just below) was ordered to be built by Sultan Mehmed. This happened in the 70s of the 15th century, but after that the Sultan’s Topkapi Palace constantly “grew” and changed. Initially, several mosques, a mint, hospitals and a bakery were built.

In the first fifty years, Top Capy was only a working residence. The Sultan's wives lived in a harem outside the Topkapi Palace. The harem on the territory was built only under Sultan Suleiman I. One of his concubines, Roksolana, wanting to be closer to her husband, “pushed” the Sultan to large-scale reconstruction of the palace.

Almost until the end of the 19th century, Turkish sultans lived in the palace. And only Abdul-Mecid I, in 1854, decided to move to new palace Dolmabahce. With the coming to power of Turkey's first president, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, in 1923, Topkapi became a museum, which is now visited by hundreds of tourists every day.

The name Topkapi is translated from Turkish as “cannon gate”. This name for the residence of the sultans was not given by chance. The first thing that all visitors notice is the majestic gate that gives access to the heart of the castle. When the Sultan entered or left the palace, a cannon shot was heard. There are also some in Turkey that are worthy of your attention.

As if Small town in Turkey, Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, photo, which is striking in its wealth and beauty, was equipped with everything necessary for life. It is so huge (its area is more than 170 hectares) that there was everything from mosques and workrooms of the sultans, to hospitals and Janissary barracks.

The population of Istanbul is increasing several times every day, so that the country may soon become a leader in population. Click here and find out where it all started.

You may also be interested in such a landmark as the Sultan Suleiman Palace in Istanbul, about which you can find out more.

The territory is divided into four courtyards. You can also get into each of them through monumental gates. Passing through the main gate, you will see a huge fountain, which was built by order of Padishah Ahmed III in 1728.

Further, through the “Brilliant Gate” you will find yourself in the first courtyard. Here you can see the gendarme headquarters, various living quarters, as well as the ruins of a bakery. You should definitely visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum and the mint building. There is a church on the territory of the first courtyard.

To get to the second courtyard, you will need to go through another gate called “Bab-i Selam”. There is also a magnificent garden with cypress trees and a tower that once served as a prison for convicted high-ranking persons.

Of particular interest to tourists are the “Palace Kitchens”. Food for the sultans was prepared here, and almost a quarter of the entire palace staff worked here. Today in the kitchen halls you can see a rare collection of porcelain. The oldest exhibits date back to the seventh century, these are dishes from the Tang Dynasty. The most valuable items are made from white porcelain.

The Topkapi Palace in Istanbul houses one of the world's largest collections of weapons. Those who are interested are advised to take a look at the collections of Islamic frescoes and manuscripts.

The exhibition of jewelry and jewelry is truly unique. Golden candlesticks, hookahs, luxurious ivory boxes, as well as the famous “Kashikchi Diamond” are just a small part of what you can see in the inner treasury complex.

It wouldn’t hurt to take a look at the collection of the Sultan’s caftans. The clothes and silk prayer rugs are truly works of art.

Harem deserves special attention. The high wall with which it is surrounded used to hide the concubines from the views of strangers. There was everything for a comfortable life for the Sultan's wives: two mosques, Turkish baths, kitchens and even a swimming pool. Visitors will be able to see collections of luxurious jewelry and clothing, and stroll near the fountains. Istanbul amazes with its numerous magnificent... I would like to see all the sights, this will help you.

We have collected the most interesting and significant places in Topkapi Palace; you will find photos of all the rooms of the Istanbul Palace in our selection.















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Daria Nessel| Jul 24, 2017

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul was the residence of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire for more than four hundred years. The whole life of a huge country was concentrated here, important decisions were made, ambassadors from different countries. This residence was the place of work and residence of the Sultan himself. Therefore, the Topkapi building complex spreads over a huge area.

It includes everything you need - residential and outbuildings, baths, fountains, storerooms, food preparation facilities, etc.

An important place among all these palace buildings is occupied by the Sultan's harem; up to 1000 female concubines and wives of the ruler of the empire lived in it. Topkapi Palace in Istanbul has been operating as a museum since 1924 and is open to any visitor.

Cat in the Harem.

Photo by Rachel Mackay

Topkapi Palace - history of construction

The name Topkapi itself translates as “Cannon Gate”. It is not accidental, since at each entry and exit of the Sultan a cannon shot was fired. The residence had other names - “palace of tears” or “palace of crying”.

Construction of the palace did not begin immediately. Mehmed the Conqueror, who captured Constantinople, initially settled on the site where Bayezid Square is located, and on the site where the construction of Topkapi began in the future, the Sultan's harem was originally located.

The place itself was once occupied under the Byzantine Empire. imperial palace, but by the time Topkapi was built, nothing remained of it except the Church of St. Irina, one of oldest buildings in the Stambul. As the palace expanded, the church found itself inside Topkapi. The history of construction can be divided into four stages:

  • 1470s, construction of the first buildings, which became the working residence of Mehmed the Conqueror and the rulers who followed him;
  • in the 16th century, the Topkapi Palace underwent major reconstruction due to the transfer of the Sultan's harem here;
  • Sultan Abdul-Mejdit I moved to another residence in 1854;
  • Since 1924, Topkapi Palace has operated as a museum.

The most important events in the history of the palace took place under Suleiman the Magnificent and they are connected with the name of his wife named Hurrem or Roksolana. It was she who insisted that the harem be moved as close as possible to the master’s chambers.

Photo by Rubén Hoya

Hurrem in Topkapi Palace: legends and facts

One of the most legendary personalities associated with the palace is the concubine who became the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. According to one version, this girl was captured Crimean Tatars in one of the Ukrainian villages. Then she was sold into slavery, and then presented to the future ruler.

It is believed that her real name was Anastasia Lisovskaya, in the West she was nicknamed Roksolana, and in the Sultan’s harem, for her cheerful disposition, she was given the name Alexandra Anastasia Lisowska (cheerful). Naturally intelligent, quick-witted and resourceful, Khyurrem managed to win the special favor of the ruler in the harem in the confrontation with his main wife Makhidevran.


Courtyard in the harem.

Photo nodog please

There was a strict hierarchy in the harem, and it was not easy to get to the top. The first stage is the odalisques, who might never become the Sultan's concubines. Next came the gözde, who spent several nights with the ruler. From among them, favorites were chosen - iqbal. Usually there were 10 - 15 of them. He periodically slept with each of them. If Iqbal gave birth to a son, she ascended to the highest level and became the main favorite.

The beautiful and charming Roksolana went through all these steps, attracted the heart of Suleiman so much that he fell deeply in love with her, sending Mahidervan to a distant province. Over time, Hurrem gained such a position that she received the title Haseki, which placed her even above the Sultan's siblings. Moreover, the Sultan officially married her, and this was contrary to the traditions of the Turkish imperial court. Alexandra Anastasia Lisowska received the official title of wife and after that Suleiman no longer knew any of the women.

In the last years of her life, Alexandra Anastasia Lisowska acquired so much weight that the Sultan perceived her as his chief adviser, and while on campaigns, he received all the information about what was happening at court only from her. She received ambassadors and entered into correspondence with foreign sovereigns. According to one of the legends, Alexandra Anastasia Lisowska was most likely poisoned by one of the courtiers.

Haseki gave birth to Suleiman many sons, among whom was his father’s heir, Sultan Selim II. Hurrem's chambers in Topkapi Palace are one of the most visited places inside the residence.


Description of Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is located on a cape, which is washed on both sides by the Sea of ​​Marmara. In plan, it is an irregularly shaped rectangle, divided into four parts; the harem is especially highlighted, like another part inside the fourth.

All structures are surrounded by a wall of two levels: external and internal. Visitors are allowed into the palace museum, but not everything is accessible to them, although they can go through the main premises completely.

First courtyard of Topkapi Palace

The journey to Topkapi Palace begins with the main gate through which the sultans entered and left; nowadays any tourist enters it and ends up in the first courtyard where the ancient church towns in honor of St. Irene, as well as a mint and a fountain.

Babı Hümayun / Imperial Gate

The steel door, built in 1524, is the work of Isa bin Mehmed. On the side facing the first courtyard are inscribed Kelime-iTevhid (statements of Islamic faith), the signature of Mahmud II, the main provisions of reparations dated 1758, and the signature of Mustafa III.

On the side facing the second courtyard are 18th-century Rococo arches. The premises on either side of the gate, which were previously used by the guards, no longer exist.

Only the Sultan was allowed to ride through the Gate of Salutation, which leads directly into the central part of the palace. They currently serve as the main entrance to the Topkapi Museum for visitors.

The first building of the State Council was a wooden structure, erected by order of Mehmed II (the Conqueror) (1451-1481). The modern arched structure arose as a result of reconstruction carried out in 1527-1529. (during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent) according to the design of the chief architect Alaeddin, as well as after a series of further successful renovations.

The walls inside the room were covered with marble in the 16th century. Beautiful ornaments, arched porches and massive marble columns were also erected in the 16th century. The final touch that gave the council building its modern appearance was the reconstruction carried out in 1972, during the reign of Selim III.

The arched galleries were fenced with gilded screens and doors with the addition of bas-reliefs in the Rococo style. As a result of the reconstruction of the building in 1819 (under the reign of Mahmud II), two poetic inscriptions were engraved on its facade. One of them belongs to Selim III, and the second to Mahmud II. And on the wall of the arch leading to the office of the State Council employees (Divan-iHümâyûn), the monograms of Mustafa III are inscribed.

The State Council building, also known as Kubbeatly (Dîvan-iHümâyûn), consists of three departments, namely: the council hall, where important affairs of the state were discussed, the office of employees, where the decisions adopted in the council hall were recorded, and the registry, from where documents and records of resolutions were sent to the archives.

Meetings of the State Council were held 4 times a week. The members of the council (approved by the Sultan as the highest authority), called the Grand Viziers, the Viziers of Kubbeatla and the Highest Military Judges of Anatolia and Rumelia (European and Ottoman Empire), were supposed to deal with state affairs, make decisions and announce verdicts in court cases. Sheikh ul-Islam (Şeyhülislam), the Ottoman Empire's highest official on matters of the Muslim faith, took part in some of the most important meetings after receiving an invitation from the Council.

The remaining employees were: the employee responsible for attaching the Sultan's monogram to decrees and other official documents (nişancı); treasurer (defterdar); Head of Employees and Minister of Foreign Affairs (Reis-ülKüttab); writers of official communications, permits, licenses and certificates (tezkereciler) and clerks (kâtipler).

At these meetings, government, political, administrative, financial and daily issues were discussed, and important public affairs were considered. The State Council of Ministers was also the place where the Grand Viziers received foreign ambassadors, and where the marriage ceremonies of the Sultan's daughters with their chosen ones took place.

The rulers of the Ottoman Empire were not present at the meetings in the Hall of the State Council of Ministers (Kubbeatli). Most time they were watching a meeting of council members from separate room in the Tower of Justice, whose window overlooked the Council Chamber. When the Sultan did not agree with the council's decision on any issue, he closed the window, thus signaling to the ministers the need to interrupt the meeting. In this case, the Grand Vizier and the rest of the ministers had to proceed to the Audience Hall to continue discussing the issue, but in the presence of the Sultan.

The hall of the State Council of Viziers (Kubbeatly) has several features that ensure the administration of justice in the state. In fact, the interior of the Council Chamber can be easily seen from the outside through the gilded grilles. This openness of the premises meant that all decisions of the Council were not confidential and were in the public domain. On the other hand, the fact that the ruler watched the meetings of the Council from his window was proof that although he delegated his powers to the ministers who sat on the Council, he was confident that injustice would not harm the citizens of the Empire in any way.

Tower of Justice

The name "zülüflü" ("braided") refers to the braids that hang from each side of their cone-shaped headdresses. Their raised collars and braids prevented them from observing what was happening in the Harem while performing their duties, such as fetching wood for the fireplace. Their commander-in-chief was the Guards Chamberlain.

In accordance with their assigned duties, they had corresponding titles: Chief of the Guard, Guardian of the Council Chamber, Store Provider, Captain of the Guard, Manufacturer of Dried Fruits and Nuts, Plumber-Builder and Runner.

Private stables / Sultan's stables

The Desserts and Sweets Room (Helvahane), built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, is divided into four sections. To the right of the entrance and fountain is an inscription dated 1767. This fountain and the inscription Kelime-iTevhid (Muslim Declaration of Faith in the Unity of God) on the door were created during restoration work carried out in 1574. The passage between the Dessert and Sweets Room (Helvahane) and the Sherbet and Jam Room (Şerbethane/reçelhane) is on the short side of the palace. Over the gate of this passage, during the reconstruction work, an inscription was engraved with the name of Mehmed Agha and the date 1699.

The doors are made in the kündekâri style, i.e. made of wood, decorated with carvings with geometric elements. In the 18th century, a mosque for cooks was built. The wooden thresholds and other wooden structures were destroyed during reconstruction in 1920.

Under the aforementioned Devşirm system, which existed from the first half of the 15th century until the end of the 17th century, the Ottoman Sultans created a class of loyal servants trained in the fundamental principles of the Muslim religion and Turkish culture. Some of the employees recruited in this way were educated in the palace, while others trained in the army. Ultimately, young people who received such an education were appointed to high-ranking positions in the government apparatus. From the 18th century, these high positions began to be awarded only to native Turks.

During the initial phase, young people were assigned as apprentices to a Turkish family, where they were taught the Turkish language, traditions and other features of Turkish society. At the end of this entire period they were sent to preparatory schools. The most gifted of them were distributed into classes at the Enderun school. Here, students studied in the following rooms: in the Big and Small rooms, corresponding to the dormitory of the expeditionary forces, in the storeroom, in the treasury and in the premises of the Secret Chambers. Students who mastered symbolic tasks about the functionality of each room subsequently had the opportunity to climb the government career ladder directly to the post of Grand Vizier (Greatest Minister of Defense state seal Sultan).

The Enderun Courtyard is designed in such a way that the ruler's personal chambers always rise above the other buildings of the palace. The premises used by the Sultan were called the Conqueror's Kiosk (FatihKöşkü), the Secret Chamber and the Pool Pavilion. These rooms were located centrally in the inner part of the courtyard, while the rooms used by the students of the Enderun School were located on its outer borders. These rooms, opening onto a courtyard through their verandas, had such interior features as a small hall surrounded by dormitory rooms, a glass room and a bathhouse (hammam).

The Enderun chambers were arranged in a hierarchical order according to the level of the training classes. The premises of the Small and Large rooms were located on both sides of the Gate of Happiness (Bâb-üsSaade). And the chambers of the expeditionary forces (SeferliKoğuşu), erected in the 17th century after the demolition of the hammam of Sultan Selim II, were premises for the lower rank students of the Enderun school. The remaining rooms belonged to the pantry, treasury and Secret Chambers. Also in this direction is the Ağalar Camii Mosque. In the middle of the Enderun courtyard was the Pool Pavilion, which was destroyed in the 18th century and replaced by the Enderun Library (Ahmed III Library).

The establishment of a new army in 1826 after the abolition of the Janissary corps was also the occasion for the creation of a new educational system. After this year, the school and the Enderun Institute began to gradually lose their importance.

Bâbü"s-saade (Gate of Happiness)

The Gate of Happiness or Gate of Bliss (Bâbü’s-saâde or Bab-üsSaâdet) is the entrance to the palace courtyard (Enderûn), also known as the third courtyard, and separates the outer part of the palace (Birûn) from the inner one.

The third courtyard contains the palace's private and residential buildings, including the Enderyun School. The Sultan used these gates, which personified his power, as well as Divan Square only on special occasions, such as the enthronement ceremony (cülûs) and religious holidays (ArifeDivanı and BayramlaşmaTöreni). On these days of religious and festival holidays, the Sultan would sit on his throne in front of the gates while officials and officials paid respect to him.

The gate represents the presence of the ruler in the palace. No one could pass through them without the permission of the overlord. Even the Grand Vizier was granted such permission only on certain days and in special cases. The Gate of Bliss, which is the main door to the ruler’s personal chambers, always remained locked. And uncoordinated penetration through them was regarded as a strict violation of the law and a challenge to the authority of the Sultan.

The gate was under the control of the Chief Eunuch of the Harem (nicknamed Bâbü’s-saâdeAğası), as well as under the control of his subordinates. The gate was erected during the original construction of Topkapi Palace in the 15th century as a colonnaded passage with a dome supported by marble columns. They are made in the Rococo style and have decorations dating back to the era of the reign of Abdul Hamid I and Selim III (1789-1807).

The wooden dome, resting on four marble columns, is a reflection of the Turkish Baroque style. It was erected during the reign of Abdul Hamid I (1775). And the simple decorations of the ceiling and cornices, the flags on the dome and its rim were made in the Empire style during the reign of Mahmud II (1808-1839).

On the stone of the front façade are engraved: the inscription “In the name of our Lord, the Gracious and the Merciful,” the monogram of Mahmud II, written by his own hand. The monograms of Abdul Hamid were inscribed on the side facades. And on rear facade contains inscriptions with the names of some rulers of the Ottoman Empire. These records also contain mention of reconstructions carried out over this gate.

On the opposite side of the gate were the quarters of the Chief Harem Eunuch (Bâbü’s-saâdeAğası) and the White Eunuchs (Akağalar), who were responsible for the third courtyard. The entrance to these rooms was through an arched passage (dating from the 16th century) from Divan Square.

ArzOdası (Audience Hall or Throne Room)

The monogram engraved on the marble on both sides of the door and belonging to Sultan Abdülmecid was, of course, added during the restoration. The walls were covered in the 19th century with ceramic panels dating from the 16th century. The fountain on the right side of the entrance was installed by order of Suleiman the Magnificent. Above the entrance, which was used by the rulers, there is a monogram of Mustafa III (1757-1774), containing notes on the reconstruction. This hall also has an epigraph of Mahmud II engraved above the aforementioned Pişkeş (for bringing in gifts) entrance.

Sultan Ahmed III Library/Enderun Library

The interior of the Sultan Ahmed III Library is decorated with Iznik ceramics from the 16th century. The ceramics were brought to Topkapi Palace from other imperial palaces and mansions in Istanbul. The domes and vaults of the library are decorated with floral motifs made of malakâri decorative plaster - a technique that personifies the era of tulips. Door and window shutters are made of ivory, decorated with classic geometric patterns. The window and door frames are covered with 17th century tiles. The ceilings are decorated with stone, decorated with geometric figures, the same as in the Pavilions of Baghdad and Yerevan. Between the windows are bookcases with silver trim.

The library's book collection consists of books from the personal collection of Ahmed III, as well as books that belonged to Abdul Hamid I and Selim III. These books were placed in the Palace Library building in 1965.

Expeditionary Force Dormitory

The Expeditionary Forces Dormitory (SeferliKoğuşu) was built in 1635 by order of Murad IV (1623-1640) on the territory freed up after the demolition of the hammam (HünkârHamamı). On the territory of the old dormitory of the expeditionary forces there was a fountain opposite the hammam, baths, a small mosque and the dormitory building itself.

The building was demolished and rebuilt by order of Ahmed III in 1719 due to the construction of the Enderun Library. During the same period, passages with columns belonging to the destroyed Pool Pavilion were added to the front of the building.

The structure of the building, supported by seven columns, is perfectly preserved to this day. The cylindrical vaults of the main hall of the expeditionary forces dormitory, consisting of two halls connected to each other, are supported by arches and columns. The small hall, belonging to the sea front, has a wooden ceiling. The epigraph engraved above the entrance contains the monogram of Sultan Mahmud II (1808-1839), who ordered the reconstruction of the premises.

Shirvan, glass boxes and wooden beds were removed from the halls during the reconstruction carried out in 1916. The inscription above the main entrance to the premises contains the name of the ruler Mehmed Resad V, who initiated all these reconstructions and changes in the year of the Hijri (1916 according to the Gregorian calendar).

The epigraph reads: “This building, being the dormitory of the Enderun Expeditionary Force, has been restored and converted into the Imperial Treasury in accordance with the sovereign order and highest instructions of the Emir of the Faithful, His Majesty Sultan Mehmed Resad Khan.”

After several restoration works, the collection of the Sultan’s wardrobe (PadişahElbiseleriKoleksiyonu) with valuable samples of costumes, numbering about 2,500 pieces, as well as numerous and expensive kaftans of the Sultans, was placed in the chamber.

Pavilion of Sultan Mehmed II (the Conqueror) / Enderun Treasury

The Conqueror's Pavilion, which Mehmed Fatih erected as a house for contemplating the surroundings, was soon converted into a place where the palace treasures were kept. Since the treasury was significantly enriched after the Egyptian expedition of Sultan Selim, the terraces had to be closed with walls in order to protect especially valuable exhibits.

During the reign of Mahmud I (1730-1754), the green porphyry columns located opposite the main entrance were walled up. This created an additional space, nicknamed the Ambassadors' Treasury (ElçiHazinesi).

Thus, the main entrance to the pavilion and the entire outer façade of the building were hidden by walls, windows and doors. Additionally, a goldsmith's workshop was added to the building in 1766. Its purpose was a complete repair of the most valuable items in the Treasury collection. All these additions were completely removed during subsequent reconstructions of the premises carried out in the 16th century.

Chamber of Treasures

The sultans who ruled Turkey until the second half of the 16th century always sat in this room before their ascension ceremony. They continued to maintain this tradition until the very end of the Empire, and also visited the Pavilion of the Holy Robe every year on the 14th and 15th day of Ramadan as part of an official ceremony.

The Pavilion of the Sacred Robe was maintained and restored by all the Sultans with great care and respect for the sacred relics kept in it. Each ruler at one time attached great importance to maintaining this place in the best condition.

This room has the most original tile design compared to all other Sultan pavilions. The tiles date from the end of the 16th century, and are fully preserved to this day.

Aghalar Mosque

Aghalar Mosque is the largest mosque in the palace. It also has the oldest structure, dating back to the 15th century and built during the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror.

The Sultan, squires and pages came here to pray. The mosque is positioned diagonally across the courtyard to face Mecca. It is located in the Enderun Courtyard next to the Sacred Robe Pavilion on the Golden Horn side. Its main part is covered by a large vault, built in the 18th century. On both sides of the mosque there are two narrow spaces. In the part of the building facing the Pavilion of the Sacred Robe, there is an altar (mihrab). And the part that faces in the opposite direction from the pavilion serves as a prayer place for squires from the army dormitory, for employees of the storeroom and treasury. Three windows at the back of the large part of the room look out onto the Harem, where the Sultans, as well as the wives and mothers of the lord, pray.

The walls of the Aghalar Mosque are covered with 17th-century tiles. The most interesting examples are the tiles covered with Arabic writing containing the signature of Archer Mustafa. This place was provided to high-ranking armorers for prayers.

The most significant reconstruction in the history of this brick and stone building was organized by the architect Mehmed Agha. The epigraph on the inside of the door dates back to 1722 according to the Gregorian calendar and contains the inscription “Es-Seyyid Mehmed Ağa”.

The building was used as a warehouse from 1881 until it was restored in 1916. A new inscription, inscribed in 1928, enshrines the main provisions of the reconstruction of the mosque carried out in 1925.

Books from the library of Ahmed III (Enderun Library) and other palace libraries were transferred to this structure. Thus, all the palace libraries were combined into one called the “New Palace Library”.

Pantry/Food Chamber (KilerliKoğuşu)

The storeroom was built by order of Mehmed Fatih between the Conqueror's Pavilion and the Treasury, in accordance with the plan of the Topkapi Palace. The head of the Food Chamber was also responsible for the kitchen of the imperial court as a whole. The pages of the Food Chamber had to prepare all kinds of dishes for the Sultan, set the table and clear the ruler’s dining table, and also maintain kitchen utensils in proper conditions.

In addition to preparing various dishes for the Ottoman ruler, such as pastilles, syrups, sherbets, fresh and dried fruits, the pages made candles, which were subsequently used in all the pavilions, chambers and mosques of the palace. They also prepared medicines for the patients of Enderun Infirmary. In April, they collected “April rain water” and served it to the Sultan, hoping for its healing properties.

Dormitory of the Chamber of the Sacred Robe / Storage for portraits of Sultans

In the second half of the 19th century, after the columns of the Privy Chamber of the Enderun Court were walled up, the Chamber of the Sacred Robe itself was converted into a Dormitory for officials named after the Sacred Robe. The columns, dome and stone walls of this building were created during the reign of Mehmed II (1441-1446/1451-1481). Currently, the chamber is used as a storage room for a collection of portraits of the Sultans.

Fourth courtyard of Topkapi Palace

The next gate opens the opportunity to get into the Sultan's garden, where the ruler spent a lot of time; it was his intimate space, since the Sultan could be alone here. In this courtyard is the Sofa Mosque, the room where circumcisions were performed. From here you can enjoy magnificent views of the Golden Horn, Bosphorus and the Sea of ​​Marmara.

On the territory of the fourth courtyard there is a Tulip garden and a terrace called Sofa-iHümâyûn or Marble Terrace. The marble terrace was expanded towards the Golden Horn with the addition of new pavilions in the first half of the 17th century during the reigns of Murad IV (1623-1640) and Ibrahim (1640-1648). The arched structures of the Marble Sofa were erected in 1916.

The Sofa Pavilion, made of wood, used by the Sultans as a personal pavilion, and the Stone Tower (Hekimbaşı Kulesi), used as the home and laboratory of the ruler’s chief physician and located in the Tulip Garden (Lâla), are fully preserved in this moment are in excellent condition.

Tulip Garden

In the Tulip garden there were many different vineyards, fruit trees (including orange and lemon), great amount all sorts of flower beds filled with roses, tulips, hyacinths, carnations and jasmine. This garden, overlooking the Sea of ​​Marmara, also houses the Medicine Kiosk, also known as the Pavilion of Sultan Abdülmecid, which was built in 1840 in the Empire style and was the last significant addition to the palace, as well as the Dressing Room (EsvapOdası) and the Sofa Mosque (Sofa Camii).

Tulip Garden is connected to Gulhane Park, currently a public recreation area, and to the Imperial Rose Garden, Mabeyn Gate. This gate was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Sarkis Balyan. He also designed the previously mentioned Medicine Kiosk.

Circumcision Hall

The Hall of Circumcision (SünnetOdası) was built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. It is located on the most impressive part of the courtyard, overlooking the Galata area of ​​the city. Initially, this place was conceived as a summer pavilion (Yazlık Oda). However, it began to be used as a Hall where the circumcision ceremony of the princes-sons of Ahmed III (1703 -1730) took place (circumcision is a religious Muslim tradition, symbolizing purity and purity).

At the rear, with a single room and a square layout, is a small kitchen. The façade of the building, covered with blue and white tiles, is the work of the famous 16th century muralist Shah Kullu. The building was rebuilt in 1640 by order of Ibrahim (1640-1648) during the reconstruction of the terrace.

Yerevan Pavilion

The Yerevan Pavilion was built in 1635 by order of Murad IV (1623-1640) as a tribute to the conquest of Yerevan on part of the land freed up by reducing the size of the pond that had existed in the courtyard of Sofa-i Humayun since the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror (1451- 1481). It was designed by the Chief Architect of that period, Koka Kasim Agha. The structure of the pavilion building has the shape of an octagon.

In 1733, during the reign of Mahmud I (1730-1754), some especially valuable copies from the collection of books of the palace library were kept in the offices of the Yerevan pavilion. Late books from the personal collections of Osman III (1754-1757) and Mustafa III (1757-1774) were also included in the collection of the Topkapi Palace Museum Library.

The Yerevan pavilion was also called sarıkodası (Hall of Turbans), since according to some sources sacred relics from the Pavilion of the Sacred Robe were kept here during the traditional cleaning before the ceremony of the Sultans’ ascension to the throne.

Baghdad Pavilion

The Baghdad Pavilion (BağdadKöşkü) is located on the right side of the Marble Terrace. It was erected in 1639 in honor of the conquest of the great Baghdad by Sultan Murad IV (1623 - 1640). The main architect was Koka Kasim Agoi.

All over the façade are inscribed scriptures from the Koran in white CelîSülüs (Arabic style of writing using capital letters only) on a blue background. And above the entrance there is a couplet in Persian.

Books donated by Abdul-Ahmid I (1774-1789) and Selim I (1780-1807) were placed in the pavilion's cabinets, whose wooden doors were decorated with mother-of-pearl, tortoiseshell and ivory. Books from the collection of the Baghdad Pavilion Library were connected to the main library of Topkapi Palace after it began functioning as a museum. A small kitchen at the rear of the building was used to serve coffee to visitors to the pavilion.

Iftariye Pavilion

The gilded Iftariye Pavilion, also known as the Iftariye Kiosk (İftariyeKöşkü), was erected by order of Ibrahim (1640-1648). Due to its location, this pavilion rises above the Topkapi Palace gardens, the Golden Horn and the Galata Tower, giving it a magnificent view of the surrounding area.

Sultans often came here to have dinner and watch the sunset under the roof of this pavilion during the month of Ramadan. In some sources it is called the “Moon Place”, where the rulers received congratulations from the inhabitants of the Enderun court during the Bayram holiday ( last day in the month of Ramadan) and watched various sporting events from here.

The Sofa Pavilion was also called the Kara Mustafa Pasha Pavilion or MerdivenbaşıKasrı. It was built during the reign of Mehmed IV (1648-1687). Its design, consisting of two separate parts, was called the Divan Hall (Divanhane) or Sherbet Room (ŞerbetOdası). It received such names thanks to a series of reconstructions carried out during the reigns of Ahmed III (1703-1730) and Mahmud (1730-1754).

The pavilion, from which the sultans watched sporting events, received guests and held conversations, was built by the pages of the Enderun court. Throughout its existence, several reconstruction works were carried out. Currently, it is the first building in history made in the Turkish Rococo style.

Sofa Mosque

Originally, on the site where the Sofa Mosque now stands, there was a Shadow Kiosk or Swordsmen's Kiosk (SilahdarağaKöşkü), built by order of Mehmed the Conqueror at the time when Topkapi Palace was first erected. According to some sources, the Sofa Mosque (Sofa Camii) was built together with a building called Sofa Ocağı during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.

In 1809, by decree of Mahmud II, the Kiosk of the Swordsmen was destroyed, and in its place the small Sofa Mescit mosque was erected. In 1859, during the reconstruction of the Medicine Pavilion and the Swordsman's Pavilion, by order of Abdul-Mejid, the small Sofa Mosque was destroyed and rebuilt into the Sofa Mosque-Terrace, which has survived to this day. From the epigraph inscribed on it it is clear that the mosque was built so that employees of the Chamber of the Treasury and the Treasury could pray in it.

Medicine Pavilion

The Medicine Pavilion is the most modern building in the entire Topkapi Palace. It was designed by the architect Sarkis Balayan, who also designed the Dolmabahce Palace, by order of Sultan Abdulmecid in 1859. It was originally called the New Kiosk, but was later renamed the Medicine Kiosk.

It was designed in the likeness of the Shadow Kiosk and the Archers' Kiosk, dating from the 15th century. And some parts of the building date back to the Byzantine era. During the period in history when the Sultans lived in the Dolmabahçe and Yıldız palaces, they visited Topkapi Palace only for short periods to participate in the enthronement ceremony (Cülus) or to pay the traditional visit of the Sacred Robe. On these occasions, they usually stayed at the Medicine Pavilion.

The Tower of the Chief Teacher (BaşLalaKulesi), also known as the Pavilion of the Chief Physician of the Sultan (HekimbaşıOdası) was built so that Mehmed II (the Conqueror) could survey the surrounding area from its top.

This building was a kind of palace pharmacy, named after the main palace doctors, ophthalmologists and surgeons, whose number reached 60-70 people. They belonged to the Ottoman state system called “Bîrûn” (as opposed to Enderûn, which means internal, Bîrûn means external).

The term Bîrûn was used to designate a group of civil servants who worked not only in the interior of the palace, but also in the exterior, outside the Sultan's private quarters. In addition to the Chief Physician's Chamber, the courtyard also contained two additional pharmacies and five hospitals, one of which was dedicated specifically to the needs of the Harem.

The Sultan, as well as all the inhabitants of the Harem and the Enderun courtyard, were treated by a team of physicians, ophthalmologists and surgeons, under the responsibility of the Chief Physician. The potions and medicines that were prescribed to patients were prepared by medical workers under the leadership of the Chief Physician. These special potions were first prepared and then poured into special flasks, vials and bottles.

Abdulhak Molla, who served during the reign of Abdul Mecid (1839-1861), was the last Chief Physician of the Topkapi Palace. After Topkapi ceased to be the residence of the Ottoman Sultans, the Pavilion of the Chief Physician was used as a music room, and later as a weapons workshop. At the beginning of the 20th century, the restored building of the Chief Physician's Pavilion was used to store medical and pharmaceutical materials.

The dressing room is a place in the palace where all the clothes and jewelry of the Sultans were kept since the reign of Mehmed Fatih. The task of properly storing clothing and jewelry in early period history lay on the Master of Muslin (DülbentAğası). In later periods of history, this function was performed by the Head of the Garment Store (Esvabcıbaşı) and his employees.

Treasures of Topkapi

For many centuries, Turkish sultans collected various rarities and jewelry. They fell into their hands in different ways: as a trophy after successful military campaigns, as gifts from other sovereigns, as a confiscated item from the enemies of the Sultan, as a result of purchase or exchange. Over time, a huge number of these things have accumulated, which are put on public display in summer palace Sultan Mehmed II. The most famous of these things are associated with legends and creepy stories.

  • Topkapi dagger. By order of Mahmud I, it was made as a gift to the Shah of Iran. The ambassadors went to the Shah with this gift, but on the way they learned that he had died and returned back. So the dagger ended up in the treasury. From that time on, he began to serve as a weapon for the murder of rival brothers of the ruling sultan. More than a dozen were deprived of their lives, and the clock built into the handle showed the time of the murder.
  • "Kashikchi", the spoon maker's diamond. A large diamond, which is framed by another 49 small diamonds. According to one legend, one poor man found this stone in a pile of garbage. Not knowing its true value, he exchanged it with the jeweler for three spoons, and the jeweler, seeking favor, presented the diamond to the Sultan. According to another version, a French officer purchased the diamond in India. In France, he sold it, then it was resold more than once until it ended up in the hands of Napoleon’s mother, and she put it up for auction. Grand Vizier Ali Pasha subsequently acquired the diamond. Sultan Mahmud II accused the vizier of treason and took the diamond from him, so it ended up in the treasury.
  • There are several thrones on display in the hall. One of them is forged from pure gold and belonged to the Iranian Shah Ismail. The throne was taken from Persia during the campaign as a trophy by Sultan Selim I. Another sandalwood throne, richly inlaid with gold, belonged to Selim III. There is also a “Bairam” throne made of gold here. It was used during the sultans' accession ceremony.
  • In addition to jewelry, the main Muslim shrines are kept in Topkapi. Banner of the Prophet Muhammad (length more than 3 m). Sultan Selim I brought it from his successful Egyptian campaign. In addition to the banner, there is the sacred mantle of Muhammad, his two swords and a bow in a golden case. Here is also a letter from the Prophet to the ruler of Mukavkas, a personal seal, beard hair and a footprint on a stone.
  • In addition to Muslim shrines, the treasury also contains many Christian relics that came here after the conquest of Constantinople. Fragments of the skull of St. Peter the Apostle, hand of St. John the Baptist and numerous arks with particles of the relics of saints. Among the religious relics is Abraham's pewter pan.

Excursions to Topkapi Palace

It will take all day to see everything. This must be taken into account when going to Topkapi. But any such inspection will not be so interesting without the guide’s story. His services can be ordered either by e-mail or in the museum itself. The guide's work is paid separately from the cost of the ticket itself.

  • Children under 12 years old are given a 50% discount, and those under 9 years old are completely free.
  • The price of the excursion will depend on the number of people in the group, if it is 10 people then about 220 dollars, if 1 or 2 people then 150 dollars.

The duration of the excursion is up to 3 hours. Guides work on all days except one – Tuesday.

The museum is open all week except Tuesday. You should also know that on public and religious holidays the museum starts working in the afternoon.

Opening hours of Topkapi Palace

  • Winter season: from October 30 to April 15. The Museum, Harem and Church of St. Irene can be visited from 9:00 to 16:45

ATTENTION: ticket kiosks close at 16:00

  • Summer season: from April 15 to October 30. The Museum, Harem and Church of St. Irene can be visited from 9:00 to 18:45

ATTENTION: ticket kiosks close at 18:00

Ticket price to Topkapi:

  • Children under 12 years old have free admission (with the exception of the harem, children under 6 years old can visit it free of charge).
  • Adult ticket - 10 euros (the price does not include a visit to the Harem)
  • Entrance ticket to the Harem - 6 euros
  • Entrance ticket to the Church of St. Irene - 5 euros

It is worth remembering that it is not enough to buy just one ticket to visit all the places in Topkapi: the entrance to the harem and the church of St. Irina for a fee. It is best to visit the palace in the warm season, since in winter it is not heated, and spending the whole day in the cold exploring the sight is not so comfortable.

Access for people with disabilities

  • Admission is free for all disabled people and one accompanying person.
  • Some sections and areas of the palace are inaccessible to wheelchair users due to stairs.
  • During your visit, if you require a wheelchair, you can contact the information desk at the museum entrance.

Unavailable sections:

  • Imperial Council Hall or Domed Chamber
  • Portraits of Ottoman Sultans
  • Circumcision room, Koka Mustafa Pasha kiosk, Revan kiosk and Baghdad kiosk
  • Library of Sultan Ahmet III. or the Enderun Library
  • Audience Hall

Available sections:

  • Weapons and armor
  • Courtyard in the palace
  • Imperial wardrobe collection
  • Treasury Rooms / Fatih Pavilion
  • Sacred Relics
  • Harem
  • Restroom

There is a toilet in the palace for disabled guests. This toilet can be found near the second gate (Welcome Gate) in the right corner in the second courtyard of the palace.

Forbidden:

  • Photography is prohibited inside the exhibition halls
  • It is prohibited to enter the museum sections with baby strollers. Please remember this rule before purchasing your ticket.
  • It is prohibited to enter the department of sacred relics wearing shorts, miniskirts, or T-shirts.
  • A permit is required to use a tripod for filming.

Cafes and restaurants:

First yard:

  • Restaurant "Karakol" (restaurant)

Second courtyard:

  • Cafe BKG Museum (Cafe - Snacks)

Fourth courtyard:

  • Restaurant Konyalı

Shops on site

There are several bookstores in Topkapi Palace. They offer a wide range of manuals, books and art books, as well as art, replicas and merchandise associated with temporary exhibitions.

Visitors will find a museum guide and souvenirs here.

The museum has three museum shops. One of them is located in the first courtyard of the palace and you don’t need to buy an entrance ticket to get into it; the rest are located in the second and third courtyards of the palace.


How to get to Topkapi Palace

From Ataturk Airport:

From the airport building you can go down to the metro (located directly under the airport). By metro take the M1 line to Aksaray station. Next, get out of the metro and take the tram to the Sultanahmet stop ( tram station located immediately at the exit from the metro). From the Sultanahmet stop you can walk to Topkapi Palace. You just need to go through the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Hurrem Sultan Baths.

By sea:

The closest port station to Topkapi Palace Museum is called Sirkeci. From Sirkeci Station you go to the Istanbul Municipality building. From there you need to walk to the entrance to Gülhane Park, and then just follow the signs that say “Topkapi Palace Museum”.

Topkapi Palace was the center of a great empire for centuries and is one of the largest palace complexes in the world, containing everything necessary for the life and activities of the Turkish Sultan and his entourage. Treasures collected by the sultans over centuries are concentrated here, and are now on display for all to see.

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 Gülhane 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-e Humayun is the main monumental gate to the former Topkapi Palace 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) for many centuries served as a ceremonial center in the life of the eastern empire. 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 tiresome 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




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