Topkapi Palace Museum

A major attraction among tourists and historians, Topkapi Palace is located on the first hill of Istanbul. The museum is the palace that was built in the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II. It was converted into a museum in 1924. The scale of the museum is enormous. The palace has more than 100 rooms and chambers, of which only a few are open to the public. It holds a large collection of porcelain items, weapons, armors, important manuscripts and literature, and different pieces of Ottoman jewellery. Topkapi Palace Museum is among the monuments recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.

For tourists, the colossal complex offers an unparalleled introduction of Islamic workmanship, with rich yards embellished with versatile hand-painted tile-work, connecting lavishly designed rooms bordered by towers. Of the numerous features here, the most well-known is the Harem where the sultan's numerous wives, concubines, and children spent their days. While there is no documented history of the harem, myth and legends about in pleanty, surrounding it with enigmatic mystery. The Second Court has the gigantic Palace Kitchens and the Imperial Council Chamber. The Third Court has the sultan's private rooms. Toursists are also offered a glimpse into the secret passages connecting these seemingly separate spaces.

The Third Court additionally has exhibitions of a great collection of relics of the Prophet Muhammad in the Sacred Safekeeping Room and is home to the Imperial Treasury, which also holds the palace's shimmering gold jewellery and precious stones. We recommend that you set aside at least half the day to have a complete tour of the Topkapi Royal residence.