Topkapi Palace - a landmark of Istanbul Bashny.Net

Towering over the Bosphorus and Marmara sea in what was once ancient Constantinople, Topkapi Palace in Sultanahmet is one of the most visited attractions of Istanbul. Built in 1478 by Sultan Mehmet II, the Palace was the official residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. In 1924, Topkapi Palace was converted into a Museum by Mustafa Kemal Ataturka, and in 1985 became a UNESCO world heritage site Old City of Istanbul.









Covering an area of about 70,000 square metres, Topkapi Palace is set around four main courtyards sheet-like shape. This is Wonderland, pavilions, gardens and buildings that once served a large number of key political, administrative, educational, religious and residential functions for the Ottoman Empire. Once the Palace was placed a University, mosque, Imperial Council and state Mint, and it is believed that up to 4,000 people lived within its walls.

In the Topkapi Palace is the extensive collection of treasures including jewels, costumes, weaponry and Holy artifacts. Highlights include the cloak and sword of Prophet Mohammed and his collection of porcelain, which is third in importance in the world. Also noteworthy is the Topkapi Dagger, which is encrusted with three large expressive emerald. In the Treasury of the Palace is the fifth largest diamond in the world Diamond Spoonmaker, which is set in silver and surrounded by 49 smaller diamonds.









One of the main attractions of the Palace — the Harem — protected and forbidden place that was placed the closest to the Sultan of people, including his family, wives, mistresses, eunuchs and their servants. The entrance to the Harem was strictly forbidden to outsiders, all within ruled mother of the Sultan.

Visitors conduct tours through the exquisitely decorated hallways and rooms of the Harem, telling about the ancient history and legends, the unique system of generous amenities that once bestowed it most important to residents, including fountains, fireplaces, hot and cold baths and under-floor heating Topkapi.





Although it is now possible to view only some of the hundreds of rooms of the Topkapi Palace, this place is worth a visit for its impressive architecture, artifacts and types. The Palace complex also hosts a restaurant Konyali, cabin, currency exchange and a gift shop. The Palace is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 9:00 to 19:00 (ticket Sales end at 18:00). On Tuesdays entrance is closed. The entrance fee is 20 Turkish liras. The Harem can only be accessed with a guided tour and pay 15 Turkish liras.





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