Topkapi Palace ... The largest palaces of Istanbul in Turkey

Topkapi Palace is an architectural marvel that celebrates the rich culture and history of the Ottoman Empire. Did you know that the palace kitchen houses a collection of nearly 12,000 pieces of porcelain, including a pot of celadon porcelain from China that, apparently, would change color if the food inside contained poison. If you are in Istanbul, a visit to Topkapi Palace is a must if you want to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture.

The reason for naming Topkapi Palace by this name

At first, the palace was called «Yenisarai», which means «New Palace» in order to distinguish it from the previous residence, then the palace took its new name «Topkapi», which means "Sublime Porte" in the nineteenth century, and it was expanded throughout the ages, and renovated after some natural events such as the earthquake of 1509 AD and the fire of 1665 AD.

How is Topkapi Palace distinct from the rest of the palaces?

One of the largest surviving palaces in the world, Topkapi Palace was built between 1460 and 1465 on the orders of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror a few years after his conquest of Constantinople. The palace served as the home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. It was also the administrative and educational headquarters of the state. After the death of Sultan Mehmet, about 30 sultans ruled from the palace to renovate it and expand it to its current look – a unique blend of Islamic, European and Ottoman architectural styles. Comprising four courtyards and more than 400 rooms, the palace was home to an estimated 4,000 people, including 300 harem concubines.

Construction of Topkapi Palace

Built by decree of Sultan Mehmed II in 1459, Topkapi's Palace embodies Ottoman architectural splendor. Influenced by Ottoman, Persian and Islamic styles, it was completed in 1465. The architects were chosen for their expertise, skillfully incorporating pointed arches, domes and intricate works into the design of the palace. Notable architects involved in its design and construction include Aladdin, Daoud Agha, Mimar Sinan and Sarkis Balyan. Renowned for its harmonious fusion with diverse influences, the palace stands as a testament to Turkey's cultural and historical richness. Over the centuries, subsequent rulers contributed to its expansion and renovation, cementing Topkapi Palace as a permanent symbol of Ottoman grandeur and architectural prowess.

Topkapi Palace in modern times

Topkapi Palace acquired its current appearance in the sixteenth century after undergoing many renovations and modifications. It is now a complex of four main courtyards interconnected with galleries, corridors, harem rooms, several small courtyards, pavilions and gardens. Topkapi Palace was turned into a museum in 1924 after the abolition of the Ottoman monarchy. It houses an imperial collection of rare books, manuscripts, illustrated volumes, sacred relics of the Prophet Muhammad, early copies of the Qur'an, Ottoman robes, royal treasury, weapons and photographs, as well as a brick dagger and the famous "spoonmaker" diamond.

The Palace of Happiness ... Bricks Qabi

The Ottomans referred to Topkapi Palace as the "Palace of Happiness" because Sultan Mehmed II was very strict in maintaining privacy inside even though the doors were open to the public. The Law of His Law was promulgated in 1481 to ensure that the principle of imperial isolation – the act of remaining completely silent – was followed in the inner courtyard of Topkapi Palace. Solid windows and secret passages were also built to increase the application of this law.

Topkapi Palace is one of the most visited palaces in Europe

The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has taken care of preserving Topkapi Palace, where ministry officials and armed guards from military patrols guard the complex, and the Tourism Authority maintains the splendor and beauty of the palace, as Topkapi Palace is an authentic part of the historical areas in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, which increased its fame among tourists, as nearly 3 million tourists visit Topkapi Palace annually, making it One of the most frequently visited museums in Europe.