Topkapi Palace Museum Tickets and Information
- Topkapi Palace Museum Address: Cankurtaran Mh., Fatih, 34122, Istanbul
- Opening Hours: Closed: Tuesday | All Other Days from 10:00 - 16:00
Is Topkapi Palace Museum Worth Visiting
- If you enjoy visiting historical buildings, this is a good one in Istanbul, yes.
What You See At Topkapi Palace Museum
- Sacred relics
- Treasury
- Kitchens
- A Guided Tour
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About Topkapi Palace Museum
Topkapi Palace Museum is in the heart of Istanbul and is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the world.
Once the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans, it now serves as a museum which showcases a fascinating collection of artefacts, architecture, and history that dates back centuries.
The palace was constructed by Sultan Mehmed II over 500 years ago in 1478, shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. The palace was the administrative and ceremonial hub of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. It housed 25 sultans, their families, and the imperial court. In 1924, following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, it was transformed into a museum.
Highlights of Topkapi Palace
- The Imperial Gate: The main entrance which leads into the grandeur of the palace.
- The First Courtyard: Features the Hagia Irene, an ancient Byzantine church, and lush gardens.
- The Second Courtyard: Houses the kitchens, stables, and Divan Hall, where state affairs were conducted.
- The Harem: A maze of private chambers where the sultan's family lived, offering a glimpse into their secretive world.
- The Treasury: Home to the famous ‘Topkapi Dagger’ and the 86-carat ‘Spoonmaker's Diamond’.
- The Sacred Relics: Includes artefacts like the Prophet Muhammad's cloak and sword.
- The Fourth Courtyard: Known for its terraces, gardens, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.