Topkapi. Topkapi Palace in Istanbul - a stone witness to the history of the Ottomans Topkapi Palace

Daria Nessel| Jul 24, 2017

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul was the residence of the sultans for more than four hundred years Ottoman Empire. 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 by an imperial palace during the Byzantine Empire, but by the time Topkapi was built there was nothing left of it except the Church of St. Irina, one of the oldest buildings in Istanbul. 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 by the 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 city’s oldest church in honor of St. Irene is located, 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 mesh 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). They spent most of their time watching the council meeting from a private room in the Tower of Justice, overlooking 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 Room of Desserts and Sweets (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 appointed as apprentices to 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 the 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 of the State Seal of the 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 education 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 the rear façade there are 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 bookshelves 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 covered 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. She also has the most ancient design, dating from 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 at 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 the 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), a huge number of all kinds 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 facade of the building, covered with tiles in shades of blue and white, 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 named 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 throughout the 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 mixtures 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 a place of residence Ottoman Sultans, The Pavilion of the Chief Physician began to be 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 proper storage of clothing and jewelry in the early period of history rested with the Muslin Master (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 confiscated items from the Sultan’s enemies, 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 killing the 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. Apostle Peter, 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 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 (Gate of Welcome) 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 (the tram stop is located immediately when you exit 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 has been the center of great empire and is one of the largest palace complexes in the world, housing 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 majestic, monumental and luxurious Topkapi Sultan's Palace 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 Abdulmecid I, in 1854, decided to move to the new Dolmabahce Palace. 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.

WITH Turkish language The name Topkapi translates 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.

Like a small city in Turkey, Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, a photo that amazes with 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. Definitely worth a visit" Archaeological Museum» Istanbul 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.

Contacts

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul: excursions in Russian, ticket price 2020

Another of the key attractions of Constantinople, and there really are a lot of them, is the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. In this article we will gladly tell you its centuries-old history and share various practical information. For example, we’ll tell you about excursions to Topkapi, their prices and schedules, and if you want to visit the palace on your own, then about the cost of entrance tickets, as well as where you can buy them cheaply in advance, so as not to wait in a potentially impressive line! Make yourself comfortable and let's begin. 😉

History of Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is the former residence of 25 sultans of the Ottoman Empire, who ruled the country from here for 400 years, from 1465 to 1853. Currently a popular attraction.

Construction of the palace began on the orders of Mehmed the Conqueror and was formally completed in 1479, although in fact construction continued for a long time, and the number of extensions to the palace grew and grew. The total area of ​​the palace ultimately amounted to 700,000 square meters.

The palace consists of several buildings with four courtyards connected by gates. The main entrance is considered to be the Imperial Gate, located on the side. The first courtyard includes the 18th-century imperial mint, the Church of St. Irene, with its armory located in its building, and the weeping fountain. Opposite the Imperial Gate is the Gate of Salutation, leading to the second courtyard and palace. From the Gate of Greetings one can go to the Gate of Happiness, through which visitors to the palace enter the third courtyard, which houses the harem, the inner chambers, the Audience Hall, the library of Sultan Ahmed III and the Palace school, where government officials were trained. Then you can go to the fourth courtyard, which is the personal garden of the Turkish Sultan, where the Bashlala Tower, the Sofa Mosque, the circumcision room and the room of the main palace physician are also located. From here they open beautiful views to the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

In 1854, Sultan Abdulmecid I changed his residence to a new one, just built. Well, since 1923, Topkapi Palace, by order of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, has opened its doors as a museum. The number of exhibits presented to the public is 65,000 units, and this is only a tenth of the museum’s collection.

Opening hours, entrance fee, Topkapi official website

Opening hours: from 9:00 to 17:00 from November 1 to April 15; from 9:00 to 19:00 from April 16 to October 31. The day off at the palace is Tuesday.
Cost of admission in 2020: the palace itself is 72TL (Turkish lira), the harem in the palace is 42TL. Read below on how to book tickets online to avoid standing in lines at the ticket office.
Official website of Topkapi: https://topkapisarayi.gov.tr/en

Topkapi Palace on the map of Istanbul

The palace is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, or more precisely, in the Sultanahmet quarter, where most of the key attractions of Istanbul are located.
The exact address of Topkapi Palace: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey.

How to get to Topkapi Palace on your own

The palace is located in historical center Istanbul - Sultanahmet district. If you rent a hotel nearby, which in the case of a short-term trip will be the best solution - you won’t have to spend extra money on travel to the main attractions, then the easiest way to get to the palace will be on foot. By the way, look for a selection of inexpensive but high-quality hotels near Topkapi Palace in our article -. Well, to get to Sultanahmet from other parts of the city, you will need to take the tram to the Gülhane Parkı stop, from where the palace is a stone's throw straight through the park of the same name.

If you don’t want to deal with city logistics during your vacation, you can always take sightseeing tour around the city, including a visit to Topkapi Palace. This is very convenient and allows you to significantly save time.

Excursions to Topkapi Palace in Russian - prices 2020, where to buy

You can visit Topkapi Palace on your own by purchasing tickets online or at the box office, or as part of one of the excursions. The easiest way to book excursions to Topkapi Palace in Russian is to use the services of a popular travel service. All excursions that you will find there are conducted by Russian-speaking guides for small groups of tourists, which is very convenient.

TOP 3 excursions to Topkapi Palace

• 1 place —

  One of the main attractions that tourists will see during this sightseeing tour of Istanbul will be Topkani Palace. With the help of a Russian guide, it is easy to find out how and how the rulers of the Ottoman Empire lived. The chronicle of the palace contains 400-year-old chronicles, in which the names of 25 sultans are mentioned. The guide will tell you only about the most outstanding ones, and will also invite you to admire the interiors of the palace and its authentic treasures. The program will be complemented by the majestic Sultanahmet Mosque, Hippodrome Square, where the history of Istanbul was born, Hagia Sophia Cathedral - a silent witness to the “golden age” of the Byzantine Empire and the secrets of the Basilica Cistern.

  Cost of the excursion – 140€ for 1-4 people.

• 2nd place —

  While visiting the Topkani Palace, you will find yourself inside the “magnificent century” of the Ottoman Empire. You will walk through the intimate chambers and look at the exquisite interiors of the interior of the palace chambers, and also look into the holy of holies - the harem, to find out what the sultans' concubines dreamed of. Before visiting the Topkani Palace, visit the Hippodrome Square to trace the history of the fall of the Byzantine Empire and learn about the popular entertainment of the inhabitants of Constantinople. And after visiting the palace, you will find out who saved the Hagia Sophia from destruction, why the Blue Mosque became a symbol of the city, what Suleiman the Magnificent became famous for and what is walled up in the minaret of the Sulaymaniyah Mosque.

  Cost of the excursion – 120€ for 1-5 people.

• 3rd place —

  Once in the treasury of the Turkish padishahs - the Topkani Palace - you will find out what made Mehmed the Second order the construction of a magnificent palace on the shores of the Sea of ​​Marmara. You will visit the armory, a harem, a hall for storing jewelry, and a library with ancient manuscripts. The guide will help you imagine the events that took place within the walls of the palace throughout its 400-year history. In the exhibition of handicrafts made from precious stones, porcelain, gold and silver, talk about the techniques of creating wondrous masterpieces, and then you will have time to stroll through the wonderful gardens and parks of the palace complex. Will complement sightseeing tour in Istanbul, visiting the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome Square with its Egyptian obelisk, Serpentine Column and German Fountain.

  Cost of the excursion – 90€ per person.

Other interesting excursions for Istanbul, look in our special article -.

How to buy a ticket to Topkapi Palace online

Almost all the attractions of Istanbul are very busy during the season from May to September, which can be an obstacle for those who want to visit as many places as possible in a short time, due to the permanent presence of queues at the ticket office. The situation can be saved if you buy tickets to Topkapi Palace online yourself. Or buy the Istanbul Welvome Card/Museum Pass, which includes tickets to several places at once - this way you can save a lot of money! So, let's understand the existing proposals. 😉

Topkapi Palace is literally in the thick of all the most interesting things in Istanbul, so once you finish visiting it, you definitely won’t have to think long about where to go next. And we, with your permission, will guide you a little. 🙂

1. If you are tired while visiting the palace, then good place for relaxation afterwards there will be a place where you can sit in a cafe or just take a walk in the shade of the trees.

2. After relaxing in the park, you can head towards Sultanahmet Square, around which the most popular attractions of Istanbul are located. For example, the most famous mosque in the city is. The big plus of Blue Mosque is that visiting it is absolutely free.

We didn’t have a special plan for visiting the sights in Istanbul, so we started our excursions from Sultanahmet. I described earlier what impressions we were left with. After Hagia Sophia, we rested a little on the park benches and headed to the Topkapi palace complex, which is located right there, to the right and a little deeper from the main entrance to the cathedral. Yes, we were a little tired of emotions after visiting Hagia Sophia. However, having arrived at the square in front of the entrance to the Topkapi Palace, we were again amazed - the Sultan’s fountain, made in the best traditions of Islamic architecture (openwork, light, richly decorated), a close-up view of Hagia Sophia and its two minarets, the luxurious main gate, the widest fortress wall - everything is very monumental, ceremonial, and interesting.

The square in front of the Topkapi Palace We are against the backdrop of the front gate This is the wall that surrounds the palace complex

Opening hours and first courtyard of Topkapi Palace

The entrance to the Topkapi Palace, or rather through the main gate to the first courtyard, is free, only armed soldiers stand at the entrance, as well as inside. At the same time, the view from the park of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul is simply amazing.

The time to visit the museum, as always, differs depending on the season. During the summer (from mid-April to mid-October), Topkapi Palace is open from 9.00 to 18.45, and the ticket office is open until 18.00. In winter, the museum is open until 16.45, and the ticket office until 16.00. Closed on Tuesday. The museum is closed for the whole day only one day a year - on Ataturk Memorial Day. And on the first day of Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, you can get there from 13.00 to 19.00.

For those who don't know anything about Topkapi Palace

If you are traveling on your own and you don’t want to overpay for the services of a guide, then before visiting Topkapi you need to know about its significance, structure and attractions so that you can understand where to look and what to pay attention to.

Topkapi Palace structurally consists of several courtyards, since, in fact, it was not just the place of residence of the Sultan and his family, but the administrative, cultural, and financial center of the entire Ottoman Empire. The plan of the palace complex is well presented on the official website of the Topkapi Museum. The first courtyard was entered through the Imperial Gate (Bab-i-Humayun). It housed utility and service premises - the palace hospital, bakery, workshops, chemical laboratory (!). A smaller number of visitors could enter the second courtyard of the palace through the Gate of Greetings (Bab-us-Selyam). It contained the entrance to the harem, the building where the diwan met, the Tower of Justice (the Sultan could not be present at the meetings of the divan, but listened to him through a special passage from the tower), the treasury, the palace kitchens (their chimneys were immediately visible from the sea). The Gate of Happiness (Bab-us-Saade) led into the third courtyard, immediately behind which there was an audience hall in which the Sultan received especially important guests. This courtyard was otherwise called the inner courtyard or “enderun”, since the Sultan’s chambers opened into it. It also housed a treasury, a school for future nobility, and an observatory. In the fourth courtyard (the newest) a beautiful park was laid out and pavilions were built in which the Sultan rested with his family and entourage.

Topkapi Palace was not founded immediately after the conquest of Constantinople by Sultan Mehmet, but only in 1475 on the site of the old imperial palace. Before this, the rulers of the empire lived in a palace on today's Bayezid Square, of which nothing has survived. And their harem was located near Hagia Sophia on the territory of the future Topkapi complex (now the Tiled Pavilion). For quite a long time, the Sultan’s women and he himself lived separately, and only at the beginning of the 16th century was a large-scale reconstruction of the Topkapi Palace carried out and a new harem complex was built, in which there were a female half and a male half, but now they were side by side.

Topkapi Palace remained the official residence of the Sultans until the mid-19th century, when the Sultan's family moved to Ciragan Palace and then to Dolmabahce.

We explore Topkapi Palace: the chambers of Valide, the wives and concubines of the sultans

Having watched the Turkish series “The Magnificent Century”, you expect something larger from the harem in the Sultan’s palace, because Topkapi is the largest palace complex of that time. However, its size, furnishings and decoration are much more modest than presented in the series. Perhaps the restoration, which is proceeding at an active pace, will correct this, but it will not widen the corridors and enlarge the rooms of the harem, and will not add light to them. I can’t imagine how up to 1000 women could fit there.

So, the entrance to the harem of the Topkapi Palace begins with the quarters for the eunuchs. I would say that they are more like cells, everything is quite ascetic, although the courtyard is decorated very nicely with blue tiles, it is cool and pleasant to be there after the sun-baked city. Then you find yourself in the inner corridors of the harem, at the entrance to which there are two gorgeous huge mirrors decorated in gold. Next we went to the chambers of Valide Sultan (mother of the current Sultan), which are not particularly luxurious (but maybe restoration?). The harem hammam, traditionally made in light marble, is available for inspection. However, in general, the impression is not that depressing, but not very joyful. Still, the girls, first of all, were slaves and lived like slaves, although they did not starve and did not wear cast-offs.

I didn’t notice any rooms that looked like the chambers of sultanas (including Hurrem) and favorite concubines, which we all saw in the TV series “Roksolana”, but maybe they were closed for restoration (many passages and doors were locked), or maybe they were just artistic invention.

Sultan's chambers at Topkapi Palace

There is more luxury and sophistication, of course, in the chambers of the heirs to the throne and the Sultan himself. Although Andrei said that he had the impression that he was moving from one bathroom to another, more colorful one))). This is all because they are mainly decorated with tiles with a predominance of blue and blue - the Sultan's colors. Before the invention of synthetic blue, its extraction was very expensive, so only very, very rich people could afford to use it in decoration in large quantities. However, I liked it - wonderful paintings, still bright colors, exquisite workmanship, and also cool, which was facilitated by fountains placed everywhere. Small taps were even located in the window slopes to cool the air coming from outside.

One of the most luxurious is the reception hall. By the way, it also contained a passage to the underground corridor, through which the Sultan, in case of danger, could leave the Topkapi Palace and sail to the sea.

Walking areas and courtyards of Topkapi Palace

The courtyards of the complex differ depending on who had the right to walk there. The courtyard for ordinary harem concubines is very modest. There is nothing special there, it is fenced with a high wall so that no one except the Sultan can see the girls; The Sultan's courts (and there are several of them) are simply wonderful. In the first there is a rotunda so that the Sultan can admire the moon (as it is written there). I also imagined myself as a sultan and admired, but not the moon, but the opening view of the entrance to the Golden Horn - very beautiful, you could stand there for hours.

And here is a short video about the interior decoration of the palace chambers.

The second courtyard of the palace could accommodate the Sultan's visitors - pashas, ​​foreign nobles, and it looks like a park, which turned out to be very pleasant to walk in.

But there is one more place where you don’t want to leave at all. Having passed through the Sultan's chambers, which were constantly being added to with various pavilions, we went out onto the observation terrace. From here you can see the foot of the complex, going down to the fortress wall and the waters of the Bosphorus. There were a lot of tourists taking pictures, sitting on the railings and at the bases of the columns, so my groans were immediately lost in the emotions of other people. And there was something to be impressed by - a magnificent view of the sea, in the perspective of the strait, Asian and European Istanbul. It is a pity that the photo does not convey the full scale and beauty of this spectacle.

We spent the most time there. I immodestly took a comfortable place and just looked and looked at all this beauty. Andrey managed to film everything he wanted and also get to know the Ukrainians (the only time we met our compatriots was there), discuss with them the political situation in the country, but everything was not enough for me. I wanted to break off a little and take it with me.

Treasures of Topkapi Palace

Quite tired, we went down again to the courtyard and saw a line into one of the interior rooms. It turned out that people stand to look at some treasures and this is included in the ticket price. I persuaded Andrey to stand and watch, because the word “treasure” had a fascinating effect on me. And we didn’t regret it! You can search the Internet for “Topkapi treasures” (do it right now)). Because we entered the first hall completely unprepared, and our knowledge of English did not allow us to properly understand what was in front of us. However, the phrases “sword of David”, “staff of Moses”, “cloak of Mohammed”, “finger of Mohammed” (if I’m not mistaken in the part of the body, there were several of them) led us to the idea that what we see are unique things. I didn’t even suspect that they could survive. Robes of the Prophet and his wife (very modest), household items, footprints. Then, attention! the hand of John the Baptist! I left the first hall, so to speak, a little “devastated”. Then there was a second room - precious stones, gold and products made from them. The most striking ones for me were:

1. The faceted Qashiqchi (Spoonman) diamond, slightly smaller than a chicken egg, is one of the largest in the world. According to legend, he was found by a wanderer in a garbage heap in the ruins of Tekfur Palace and sold to a spoon maker for three spoons. Then a jeweler bought him for 10 silver coins and then he got to the Sultan.

2. Box with emeralds (for the Sultan’s crafts). And the world's largest emerald in the world is kept in the treasury.

3. Various jewelry with a myriad of diamonds, emeralds, rubies.

4. Richly decorated Topkapi dagger. There is also information about him interesting story. It was made as a gift for the Persian padishah. However, when the Sultan's ambassadors arrived at the Shah's court, he had already been overthrown and the need for a gift disappeared. So the dagger returned to Topkapi and now adorns the treasury.

5. Orders awarded to the sultans.

6. Golden horse harness with a huge ruby ​​and more.

7. Several thrones of the sultans, strewn with huge precious stones and covered with plates of gold.

8. And so, “little things” - elegant gold sets, various precious boxes, figurines, mechanical toys.

It's a pity that I couldn't look at it as much as I wanted. A security guard (attention, one security guard!) strictly ensured that people did not linger near the exhibits and did not create a crush. Moreover, what is on display is only a small part of what is in the museum’s storage facilities! In general, I recommend everyone to visit this exhibition. I forgot that I was tired, thirsty and hungry.

Afterwards, we wandered around the area a little more, but it was already almost 6 o’clock in the evening, and Topkapi Palace was closed to visitors. I wanted to go there again, but according to the museum map, the attraction can only be visited once. It’s a bit of a shame, I would have been even more happy to look at the treasury and plunge into the atmosphere of Topkapi Palace))).

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. The total area of ​​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 collection of 300,000 objects has unique cultural values, features 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 by entrance ticket or the MuseumPass map. 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 Kashikchi diamond, incredibly large in size, attracts attention; 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 recreation areas - 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 tram T1, 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 arrive by private vehicle, 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