The thought of visiting a royal palace is always so exciting to me that the first thing I do when I decide on a trip to a city is to lookup for forts and palaces in that city. And when it comes to Istanbul city it needs no introduction for its rich history and abundant architectural marvels. Although Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia was on top of my list, I wanted to visit Topkapi Palace first.
Related post: Seven ways to enjoy Istanbul
Topkapi Palace was built by Sultan Mehmed II, the Ottoman emperor who conquered Byzantine Constantinople and choose to build his first palace on the site of a Byzantine acropolis. The Sultan ordered the construction of the palace in 1459 which was completed in 1478 and it was originally called as Saray-i Cedid-i Amire, which meant the Imperial New Palace. The emperor himself played a major role in laying out its design and architecture where he chooses the highest point of the land to build his private chambers and other parts of the royal residence. Although it went through numerous alterations and renovations over the centuries the basic layout was kept unchanged.
During the reign of the Sultans of Ottoman empire this was their official residence from 15th to 19th century and housed their administrative offices, armory, official halls, served as a center for art and education and also a royal residence. After the Royals moved to their new residence Dolmabahçe Palace, this was converted to a museum in 1924 and it is one the oldest and largest palace museum in the world. In 1985, Topkapi palace was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Areas of Istanbul”.
Topkapi Palace is the true treasure of the rich Ottoman style of architecture showcasing the Islāmic traditions and designs in various forms of gold and ceramic motifs with beautiful hues of white, red and blues adorning the walls and ceilings.
The palace is divided into four main courtyards, with each courtyard being used for different purposes. After getting our entrance tickets from the visitor center in the first courtyard we started to tour the Imperial Palace of Istanbul. As we passed through each of the magnificent gates leading into the courtyards we were taken closure into the world the Sultans with its myriad gardens and elaborated decor, which was absolutely enchanting.
The second courtyard houses the palace kitchen, Imperial treasury and my favorite among these is the Imperial Council. This richly decorated building with huge pillars on the outside porch with multiple doors leading inside and once inside you are treated with an extravagant decor in rococo style is an absolute treat to your eyes.
The next courtyard (third) is the heart of the palace and houses all the important sections or chambers used by the royal family. The impressive Imperial Treasury collection is one of the must-sees along with Harem, which houses the lavish Sultan’s and Queen Mother’s private chambers, the throne room and the other rooms of the royal family, spanning over 6 floors with 300 rooms. The palace museum displays a wide range of collections from finest Ottoman carpets, Sultan’s clothing and caftans and scared coverings. One more important part of the palace, which you can’t give a miss is the Privy Chamber where the Holy Relics are displayed and the most treasured ones among them are the Holy Mantle of the Prophet, his footprints, Moses’s staff, Davis’s sword and also keys and the gutters of Kaaba and many more.
And as we reached the end of the garden in the fourth courtyard we were greeted by the stunning view of Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus. Despite being a gloomy day, we didn’t get a clear view but still, it was all spectacular. This last courtyard has numerous gardens, pavilions, and kiosks which were mainly used by the Sultan and his family.
Topkapi Palace has the most exquisite display of the artifacts from the Sultans of Ottoman empire and we spent around 1.5 hours exploring the different courtyards and opulent rooms and halls of the palace and I was beyond stunned by the magnificence of the palace.
The whole palace is exceptionally beautiful and to tour this extensive complex one would take a good two hours of time so that you don’t miss out on any part of the palace.
Topkapi Palace is open for visitors on all days except on every Tuesdays and on public holidays. Entry to the museum costs 40 TL and you need to buy a separate ticket for Harem and Halberdiers which costs 25 TL. For more information please visit: http://topkapisarayi.gov.tr/en
Hope you guys enjoyed reading our post, do leave us a comment on your thoughts on this ancient place!
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Saw your pic on IG and HAD to check out your post! It’s so beautiful!! Definitely pinning this! 🙂
Thank you Lolo! 🙂
Mind blowing architecture and amazing details. I’ve never heard of this palace, in spite of reading dozens of articles on Istanbul (needless to say, hope to visit this city one day). Thanks for posting so many pictures – I’m always hesitant when including more than 15-20 photos into a single blog post, but now I see that it really gives a better idea of a place.
Thank you Antonina! Even I had not heard of this palace in any article I had read about Istanbul but when I opened their official website I got to know about this… 🙂
Beautifully and widely written . I am amazed with the pictures and think the kings of each country were living in Luxury and this palace is proving but on the other hand it is a beautiful piece and well managed .
Thank you Yogi, Topkapi has been maintained very well despite it being 500 years old palace!
Delighted to see this palace. You have captured the details beautifully.
Thank you Rajesh…:)
And to think that some people must have called it home! I would be happy with just the view of the sea if I had it from my home!
Exactly! On a clear, sunny day the view absolutely stunning!
AMAZING!!!! YOU CAPTURE THE BEST VISUALS AND THE WORDS DO JUSTICE.
Thank you!! 🙂
Been to Topkapi Palace 10 years ago, honestly didnt remember anything. This article bought back so much tonne. Well written and lovely pictures
Thank you Karishma!! 🙂
It never fails to amaze me how opulent palaces are. Can you imagine living in a place like that? The ceilings are so amazingly crafted. I wonder how long it took servants to clean the castle?
Ha ha! Exactly, these places might need hundreds of servants to keep them clean 😉
Topkapi Palace looks incredible! It really reminds you how young we are in comparison. I love all the intricate detailing in the photos of the Imperial Council, as well as the rich history of the palace and Istanbul. Thanks for sharing!
Welcome Lisa! 🙂
What a gorgeous place! I love the architecture and all the colors used to build this place. I’d love to live in a place like this, so much room and such great views.
It would like living a dream of being a princess if ever we get to live in such a palace, isn’t it 😉
I love palaces and castles too (more than museums). I also love it when it’s not only a ruin and the Topkapi Palace looks like something I’d definitely enjoy exploring. I can see a bit of Asian design influence in the paintings but then I realized that Turkey is both European and Asian country. Lol. Love the view of the Bosphorus and Marmara Sea in the end, it really is a view fit for a King (or a Sultan). 🙂
We totally agree with you Noemi, palaces are always a better option than museums 😉
Ottoman history is so interesting. It’s good to see this 15th century edifice still standing strong. I had read so many articles about Istanbul but I had never heard of this place. It sure is an offbeat gem.
Thats true Abhinav, although this palace is right next to the famous Hagia Sophie and equally attractive for its beauty and stunning architecture it is hardly mentioned anywhere…
That is so beautiful – inside and out! I’d love to visit Istanbul and see this in person. The architecture is stunning.
You have to visit this palace if you are in Istabul Lois! 🙂
Very impressive gilded interiors. Their tile designs and lay out impresses me a lot.
Topkapi Palace seems to be a must visit kind of place. I have added it to my dream destination list. The weather there was dull but the pics do look great.
Thank you Indrani! Weather was very gloomy the day we visited, I tried my best to capture good pictures..:)
I skipped Topkapi when I stayed in Istanbul for a month, on account of too many people there. These photos and descriptions are perhaps the next best thing. Except now I feel like I have to go! It’s not something to miss for sure.
Yeah, it gets bit crowded inside but it is all worth it, do not miss this if you are Istanbul next time Peter! 🙂
You took me on real tour in this palace! Thanks!
Thank you Daniela, hope you enjoyed reading our post..:)
Your pictures are absolutely stunning!!
Some parts kind of remind me a little of the Alcazar in Seville 🙂
Thank you Aryane! Thats true, there are few resembles.. 🙂
This looks absolutely stunning. I love exploring history in places like this too- it’s so interesting to learn about this way. This palace looks like it’s one that’s shouldn’t be missed!
In that case you shouldnt miss this palace Laura! 🙂
I love Topkapi Palace but then to be fair Istanbul wowed me. We stayed out of the town but had amazing views of the city from the rooftop deck
That would have been really amazing Anne!
Istanbul is on our maybe list, but of late I have been seeing some stunning things to visit. I love a bit of history when exploring a new country and you have provided a great insight on the Palace. Stunning photos to match your story. Thanks for the read.
Thank you so much Tony! 🙂
So ornate, so grand!
Ah that view from the courtyard is splendid.
Thank you for that tour.
Thank you Divya! hope you enjoyed reading the post 🙂
Loved the intricate designs on the walls. Wonderful architecture. Also loved the dose of history connected to the palace.
Its spectacular when you visit this palace in person Gokul!
It is amazing how much you know about the history of this palace. It is beautiful, clean, and well-maintained. I like the interior designs of the rooms. They are intricate and colourful. I would love to visit this palace someday.
Since I am a bit of history buff I read few articles on the palace as I was very curious to know more about its history.. 🙂
I’m visiting Istanbul this winter and only really know about the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. It’s good to read about something else before I go, the Topkapi Palace. As it’s a UNESCO site I will definitely add it to my Istanbul itinerary.
Don’t give this a miss James! 🙂
I love the architecture and the amazing intricate details of the inside and the ceilings – it’s so beautiful! I always try and visit UNESCO World Heritage sites when I travel as they are usually so interesting.
Thank you Samantha! 🙂