Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace Museum

A trip to Istanbul is incomplete without spending a few hours at the Topkapi Palace Museum. Known as one of the city’s most visited attractions and Europe’s best museums, the Palace Museum gets millions of visitors annually. The palace lies along the waters of the Bosphorus, Marmara Sea, and the Golden Horn and is a testament to the grandeur of the Ottomans. The site was once an ancient Byzantine palace, which was transformed into the luxurious abode of the Ottoman royal family in the fifteenth century. In fact, it was among the first structures constructed by the Ottomans after their conquest of Constantinople in 1453.


While Sultan Mehmed II laid the functional foundations of the Topkapi Palace, Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent added to its decorative details. As you walk through the four courtyards, you come across numerous rooms and pavilions adorned with European, Byzantine, and Ottoman styles. The grand beauty of the palace derives from the fact that it was the official royal and administrative centre for four centuries. Since transforming into a public museum in 1924, the palace has been a top visitor favourite due to its priceless royal collections.


Topkapi Museum is best known for its Chamber of Holy Relics, where you can see relics of Prophet Muhammad, Joseph, and Moses. While the Imperial Arms Collection is among the world’s largest arms collections, the palace library has thousands of rare books. You can also see some of the world’s first Qurans and a rare Arabic Bible from the fourth century. Explore the lavish interiors of the Harem and the Third Courtyard and admire the panoramic views from the Fourth Courtyard. Learn about the lifestyle of one of the world’s most powerful royals with a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.

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Inside Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace Harem

The top highlight of the Topkapi Palace Museum is the Harem, which is a cluster of over 400 highly decorated rooms. The Harem signified the private quarters of the royal family and the headquarters of the Ottoman Sultan. The Topkapi Harem was designed by Mimar Siman and reflects the hierarchy of the residents of each quarter. The top attractions are the baths of the Sultan and Queen Mother, the Privy Chamber of Murat III, and the Courtyard of the Queen Mother. The charming rooms were added to the palace in the sixteenth century and incorporated different architectural styles like Ottoman and Baroque.

Topkapi Palace First Courtyard

As you step into the First Courtyard of the Topkapi Palace, you get to witness the largest courtyard on the palace premises. The courtyard is a blend of numerous architectural styles, historical periods, and Byzantine and Ottoman traditions. The first attraction of the courtyard is the Imperial Mint, which was the largest mint for Ottoman currency for over two centuries. Next on the list is the Hagia Irene, the oldest Christian Orthodox church in Istanbul that was converted into an Ottoman imperial armoury. The church today functions as a museum where different classical music events are organised. The First Courtyard is also lined with well-maintained gardens and stunning fountains that showcase the glory of the Ottomans with their elegance. The final attraction is the Gate of Salutation, where several monograms of different Sultans and religious inscriptions can be seen. Recent excavations near the Imperial Gate have unearthed galleries from the Roman era, which you can see here

Topkapi Palace Second Courtyard

Witness some of the most iconic structures of the Topkapi Palace at the Second Courtyard. As you cross the Gate of Salutation, you see the palace kitchens on one side and confectionary shops on the other. The kitchens have numerous Ottoman tools and rare Chinese porcelain and silver gifts for guests. Next on the list of things to see is the Imperial Council Chamber, a three-storey structure where the Sultan’s imperial council held meetings. Close to the chamber is a room that displays a stunning collection of clocks from the Ottoman era and the Tower of Justice. The courtyard is also known for the Ottoman Arms Collection, one of the world’s largest collections with pieces from as early as the seventh century. The most stunning part is the Harem, a cluster of hundreds of rooms that were the private quarters of the Sultan’s family.

Topkapi Palace Third Courtyard

Cross through the Gate of Felicity from the Second Courtyard to enter the Third Courtyard, which was also known as the Inner Palace. The first thing you see upon entering here is a lush green garden that is surrounded by many beautiful Ottoman structures. The courtyard has the Audience Chamber, where the Sultan met his officials and foreign dignitaries. Popular highlights of the Topkapi Palace Museum like the Piri Reis World Map, Imperial Treasury, and Dormitory of the Expeditionary Force are found here.


You can also see the Miniature and Portrait Gallery, where rare literary works like the world’s first Qurans and an Arabic Bible are kept. See a massive collection of thousands of priceless books on different subjects at the Mosque of the Agas, the largest mosque within the Palace. The best highlight of the courtyard is the Chamber of Holy Relics, where the remains of the Prophet Muhammad, Moses, and Joseph are preserved.


Topkapi Palace Fourth Courtyard

The Fourth Courtyard of the Topkapi Museum was known as the private sanctuary for the Sultan and the royal family. Surrounded by lush gardens and pavilions, the courtyard has numerous chambers that showcase the beauty of Ottoman architecture. The Circumcision Room is adorned with blue tiles and floral motifs, while the Yerevan Kiosk has a central dome and iznik tiles. The Baghdad Kiosk, constructed to commemorate the victory over the city, mirrors the features of the Yerevan Kiosk.


While the Iftar Kiosk was used during Ramadan when the Sultan broke his fast, the Terrace Kiosk was a guest room and viewing platform. For those who want a slice of history, The Chamber of the Royal Physician has medieval medical equipment on display. The Grand Kiosk of this courtyard is popular for its stunning panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Sea of Marmara. If you wish to see the Golden Horn from the Palace, head to the Outer Terrace here. 


Topkapi Palace History

Topkapi Palace Museum was the heart of the mighty medieval empire of the Ottomans for over four centuries. It was after the conquest of Constantinople by Sultan Mehmed II in 1453 that the palace was commissioned along the Bosphorus. The new palatial residence of the Ottoman royal family was completed in 1459 on the ruins of an ancient Byzantine palace. The structure was initially named Zeytinlik and was later renamed Topkapi.


It was Sultan Mehmed II who laid the groundwork of the palace design as a structure with four massive courtyards. However, this was the functional layout, which was expanded and beautified under Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent in the sixteenth century. The renovations were a reflection of the growing power of the Ottoman Empire, which was spread across three continents at its peak. While the original structure had the main functional elements, Suleyman the Magnificent added the harem, baths, and pavilions. Even after a massive fire broke out in 1574, the reconstructed Topkapi Palace maintained its architectural blueprint.


The palatial residence is among the largest royal residences in the world and is known for incorporating stunning features of Ottoman architecture. Over the centuries, different Sultans made minor additions to the palace, which added to its charm and beauty. Some such additions were the Baghdad Kiosk, Gulhane Park, and the Fifth Courtyard. Although the Fifth Courtyard is not completely intact, it still showcases the multiple architectural features added to the royal palace.


It was in the 1850s that the palace lost its position as the royal residence to the modern Dolmabahce Palace. Although the structure was still maintained and preserved under the last Sultans, it regained its glory a few decades later. In 1924, Turkey’s founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk declared the transformation of the palace into the Topkapi Museum. Once completely off-limits to outsiders, the structure became one of Turkey’s most visited public attractions. Today, the palace museum houses priceless collections of royal collectables and rare historical artefacts from different eras of Islamic and Ottoman history. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and is among Europe’s most popular museums.


Facts of Topkapi Palace Museum Facts

  • The Topkapi Palace is the world’s oldest and largest royal palace and was the official Ottoman residence for 400 years.
  • The palace functioned as the private abode of the royals and was also the administrative centre of an empire that spanned three continents.
  • The grand halls of the lavish structure were also a centre of learning for the royals and citizens from higher classes of society.
  • The palace was home to over 5,000 people and could accommodate up to 10,000 people for special occasions.
  • With a kitchen staff of over 1,000 people, this Ottoman palace kitchen prepared over 6,000 meals in a single day.
  • The royal palace, which lies behind the Hagia Sophia, was constructed on the site where the ancient acropolis of Byzantium once stood.
  • One of the main highlights of the palace is the Imperial Mint, which produced the maximum amount of the empire’s currency till 1967.
  • The Imperial Arms Collection of the Topkapi Museum is among the largest collection of arms in the world. 
  • Some pieces of the Imperial Arms Collection come from the Umayyads and Abbasids and are as old as the seventh century.
  • The Harem of the palace was the abode of the Sultan’s family and could house up to 300 concubines. 
  • The Palace Harem was guarded by eunuchs and is a treasure trove of priceless artefacts and royal collectables.
  • Numerous Ottoman Sultans made additions to the palace over the centuries, so you can see art styles of different eras in one place here.
  • The palace lost its status as the official royal residence when the Dolmabahce Palace was completed in the 1850s. 
  • It was in 1924 that Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of Turkey, transformed the palace into a museum open to the public.
  • Topkapi Palace Museum offers a glimpse into the vast collection of Ottoman treasures like the Topkapi Dagger and Spoonmaker’s Diamond. 
  • Royal artefacts are displayed within the luxurious rooms of the palace that have been preserved in their original form.
  • You can admire stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara from the Fourth Courtyard of the palace.


Checkout: Topkapi Palace facts


Topkapi Palace Architecture

  • Topkapi Museum offers a glimpse of traditional Ottoman architecture and how it evolved over centuries under different Sultans.
  • Designed as the empire’s royal and administrative centre, the palace has four massive courtyards with unique structures and functions.
  • The entrance to the palace is from the Imperial Gate, which is adorned with 19th-century marble and beautiful calligraphic verses.
  • As you enter the First Courtyard, you come across well-maintained gardens lined with fountains, a classic feature of medieval Islamic architecture.
  • Upon entering the Second Courtyard, you see the ten domed Palace Kitchens that had specialised ventilators and chimneys.
  • The Second Courtyard also housed the Imperial Harem where you can see Ottoman and Baroque styles and Italian decorative tiles.
  • The courtyard of the eunuchs in the Second Courtyard is known for its use of colourful ceramic tiles that enhance its beauty.
  • The Third Courtyard is the peak of Ottoman architecture within the Topkapi Palace Museum and is best known for the Throne Room.
  • The Throne Room or Audience Chamber is a blend of Ottoman and Rococo styles and is studded with carvings and calligraphy.
  • The Mosque of the Agas is the largest mosque in the palace and is now a massive library with rare books in the collection.
  • As you enter the Fourth Courtyard, you get to see the Tulip Garden which was used as a space for relaxation and entertainment.
  • The Circumcision Room in the Fourth Courtyard is adorned with blue tiles and floral motifs, while the Yerevan Kiosk has iznik tiles.
  • The Baghdad Kiosk is a unique structure as it perfectly mirrors the features of the Yerevan Kiosk.
  • Prominent architectural features of the Topkapi Palace Museum include the use of iznik blue and white tiles and delicate calligraphy.
  • The interiors of all structures in the palace are lined with arabesque designs and vibrant colours, offering stunning views to visitors.


The Imperial Gate of Topkapi Palace


The Imperial Gate of the Topkapi Palace Museum is a testament to the grandeur and unmatched power of the Ottoman Empire. The structure was constructed in 1478 and lies at the entrance of the First Courtyard facing the iconic Hagia Sophia. It was used as the gateway for the Sultan’s entry and is adorned with 19th-century marble. What makes the Imperial Gate special is the intricate calligraphy that mentions Quranic verses and the tughras of Ottoman Sultans Mehmed II and Abdulaziz. 

Best Time to Visit Topkapi Palace Museum

  • The best time to visit Topkapi Palace is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and crowds are low.
  • Plan your visit to the palace museum on Monday and Thursday mornings to avoid the weekend rush.
  • Avoid visiting on Friday mornings as crowds are high due to the late opening hours of the Blue Mosque.
  • If you visit in late May and June, visit in the early morning hours to avoid the afternoon heat and rush of visitors.

FAQ's of Topkapi Palace Museum

What is Topkapi Palace Museum?

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is a historic gem, once the centre of the Ottoman Empire. Built in the 15th century, it is a museum today showcasing lavish rooms, the famous Harem, and invaluable artefacts like the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers panoramic views over Istanbul.

What are the must-see attractions in Topkapi Palace Museum?

  1. Harem: Once secluded quarters for the Sultan and his women, the Harem offers a rare look into private royal life. Lavish rooms and courtyards abound, making it a feast for both history buffs and lovers of architecture.
  2. Topkapi Palace Museum: The hub of Ottoman grandeur, this museum is a treasure chest of art and historical artefacts. Key attractions include the Imperial Treasury with the Spoonmaker's Diamond, and the Sacred Safekeeping Rooms, which house religious relics that date back to the Prophet Mohammed.
  3. First Courtyard: This courtyard welcomes you into the grandeur of the palace. You will see the influence of guilds and artisans, manifested in remnants of workshops from the time of the Ottoman Empire. It gives you an authentic historical experience, while also offering insights into the palace's architectural prowess.
  4. Fourth Courtyard: Known for its tiered gardens and beautiful pavilions, it is a serene escape. Notable spots include the Iftariye Kameriyesi, where Sultans broke their Ramzan fast, and the aromatic tulip gardens.

When was Topkapi Palace built?

Topkapi Palace was erected between 1460 and 1478 on the orders of Sultan Mehmed II, after his conquest of Constantinople. The palace served as the epicentre of the Ottoman Empire for almost 400 years, housing sultans and their courts. Its construction during this pivotal period reflects the empire's newfound dominance and consolidation of power.

How long does it take to explore Topkapi Palace?

You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to thoroughly explore Topkapi Palace. This time frame allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and intricate architecture, including the Harem, courtyards and treasury. Given the palace's expansive layout and wealth of artefacts, a few hours are essential for a rewarding visit.

Who built Topkapi Palace Museum?

Topkapi Palace was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II, known as Mehmed the Conqueror. Constructed between 1460 and 1478, the palace symbolised his triumph over Constantinople and the consolidation of Ottoman power. It served as the administrative and residential heart of the empire, emphasising Mehmed II's pivotal role in Ottoman history.

Is Topkapi Palace open for visits?

Yes, Topkapi Palace is open for public visits. Located in Istanbul, it is a must-see, serving as a museum since 1924. You will find intriguing exhibitions of Ottoman history, from royal jewels to Prophet Muhammad's belongings. Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, it draws millions each year, also offering spectacular views of the city.

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How much does it cost to visit Topkapi Palace Museum?

The cost to visit Topkapi Palace varies depending on the type of ticket and whether you want to visit certain areas like the Harem or the Treasury. As of September 2021, the standard ticket is 100 Turkish lira (about $12 USD), while additional tickets for special exhibits or areas like the Harem can cost extra.

Are there audio guides available for the Topkapi Palace tour?

Yes, visitors can rent audio guides at the our website or use a mobile app for a self-guided tour of Topkapi Palace. However, hiring a professional guide is recommended for a more informative experience about the palace's history and collections.

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Are there any other attractions near Topkapi Palace Museum?

Yes, there are several other attractions near Topkapi Palace, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar, all located within walking distance.

Check out the Istanbul Tourist Information for more details

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