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Topkapi Palace

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hermion
hermion
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4 out of 5
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Topkapi Palace

  • July 13, 2006
  • Rated 5 of 5 by dackelynn from Misaka, Japan
Topkapi Palace

Although the entrance fees may be quite steep (around $30 for everything), Topkapi Palace is a must-see. This gem from the Ottoman Empire contains stunning architecture. Of particular interest is the tile work which is still in great shape. Take your time exploring because there is a lot to see. Be sure to tour inside the Harem. Outside, you'll facade of the Castration Room breathtaking. There is also a peaceful fountain in the back.

The Palace is closed on Tuesdays. Otherwise it open from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. You can purchase tickets by the entrance to the Harem. You can find more information and even take a virtual tour on the official website: http://www.topkapisarayi.gov.tr/

From journal Istanbul, Turkey: West and East

Topkapi Palace

  • December 29, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Suha Sendogan from Ýstanbul, Turkey
Topkapý Palace is one of the most attractive places in the world. The richness of the Ottomans is reflected on the eyes of every visitor. It's really so magnificent to see costumes, and the armour and caftans are proof of richness. The treasure room is probably the richest one among the others. There is really one of the biggest diamonds in the world, called Kaþýkçý Elmasý, which should be seen by all visitors.

From journal Life in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace

  • March 14, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by samer_k from plano, Texas
Want to see how the famous Turkish sultans live? Then you must see this. This palace has very elegant and well-preserved gardens and palaces. It truly gives you an idea of what they wore, how they conducted affairs of the day, and how they spread the Ottoman Empire. See the famous diamonds and jewels. See Islamic artifacts and books. There is lots of walking, but it is worth it. It is best to go with a guided tour.

From journal Enchanting Istanbul

Topkapi Palace

  • November 12, 2004
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Mhoene from Frankfurt , Germany
Topkapi Palace

Mustfa from Hotel Spina arranged the tickets and brought us to the Topkapi Palace. I think there is enough information about it on this site and in guidebooks. What I found a little bit unfair is that eating and drinking were very expensive there. Before you visit Topkapi Palace, eat at the hotel or somewhere else, but not in the restaurant at the palace.

From journal Fascinating city Istanbul

Editor Pick

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

  • June 13, 2004
  • Rated 5 of 5 by mightywease from Carshalton, United Kingdom
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi)

The Topkapi Palace is, I think, one of the highlights of a visit to Istanbul. Built between 1459 and 1465 it is not the traditional royal palace building I was expecting but a series of pavilions and kiosks placed in four large courtyards and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

I’d suggest starting a tour of the palace with the Harem (see separate tip) partly because tickets are limited so it is best to book into a tour straight away but also because it allows a ‘private’ view of the day to day workings of the palace as opposed to the more public and ceremonial areas in the first two courtyards.

Then start to explore the courtyards and pavilions. In the second courtyard, near to the entrance to the Harem, is the Imperial Council Chamber wonderfully decorated with beautiful calligraphy, tiling and wall paintings. In the chamber is the Divan (indeed Divan is the name often given to this room) upon which the Grand Vizier would sit to preside over meetings. Nearby, on the wall, is a metal grille through which the Sultan himself would watch, seeing but not being seen. Also in the second courtyard are the old kitchens with their huge doomed roofs and distinctive chimneys, they now contain a collection of porcelain, silver, ceramics and celadon – the latter prized because it supposedly neutralised any poison in food. A useful tool for a Sultan fearing he may be overthrown. Housed in the old State Treasury is a collection of arms and armour including some formidable looking swords – some of which belonged to individual Sultans - huge muskets, maces and a particularly fierce looking shield with spikes on it.

In the third courtyard are the Treasury (see separate tip) and Pavilion of the Holy Mantle. The latter contains some of Islam’s most holy relics including the mantle of the Prophet Mohammed, hairs from the Prophets beard, an impression of his footprint and a letter written by him. It is a place of pilgrimage with verses from the Koran being constantly chanted. Visitors are asked to respect this and speak and act quietly when visiting.

The Fourth courtyard contains a series of beautifully decorated pavilions including the Baghdad Pavilion, decorated with blue and white tiles, and the gold canopy of the Iftariye Pavilion from where there are wonderful views over the Golden Horn. Indeed the views from the fourth courtyard over the Golden Horn, Bosphorus and the Sea of Mamara are quite stunning.

Walking round Topkapi Palace is a serene experience, even when busy it retains an air of stillness and tranquillity. There are many small alleys and walkways where you can find a quiet place to yourself or simply sit in one of the small gardens observing the traffic of people. You may just find the atmosphere starts to work on you to create a soothing sense of inner calm that stays with you after you’ve walked out through the palace gates and back into the bustle of Sultanahmet.

From journal Istanbul - Minarets and Magic

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