Topkapı Sarayı (Topkapı Palace) Attractions & Landmark
Get Here Early
Eminönü
Istanbul,
34122
Turkey
+90 212 512 0480
+90 212 528 5991
http://www.topkapisarayi.gov.t..
topkapisarayi@kulturtuizm.gov...
Transport Options:
Train Available: Sultanahmet
Overview
Topkapı Sarayı, on the Seraglio Peninsula, became a museum in 1924. The Harem, Baghdat Pavilion, Revan Pavilion, Sofa Pavilion, and Audience Chamber distinguish themselves with their architectural assets, while other artifacts on display reflect palace life. Gülhane Park is located on the slopes below the palace extending to the seashore, and is popular among Istanbul residents for picnicking and open-air concerts. In the park is the Gothic Column (courtesy of Claudius II), known to have been one of the main obelisks of the Byzantines. One of the most interesting parts of the palace is the Harem, so be sure to get here early to sign up for a complete tour of it.Open Hours
We to Mo from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM
Beeing there is a different experience. While you are inside the palace you immagine Sultan's life and the greatness of the Empire.It is one of the world's treasures
plenty to see ! also consider to take a guided tour take your time to browse through this is a colorful warm impression of ancient osman culture dont miss to cross the bosporus on a locals ferry boat and see the medusa in the cisterns !
While many people head to Topkaipi, they often bypass the harem, which in my opinion is the craziest thing I ever heard! maybe they are turned off by the extra ticet price, but really, it is worth it. You can not get a feel for the old Ottomon Empire without seeing the harem. it is gorgeous and delicately-tiled and just beautiful in eery way. It is incredible to see. For your sake, do not bypass the harem; it is the most magnificent part of the entire palace!
I consider this Palace in the same position of History as Versailles. The place is huge. Frankly, I do not know where to start. My suggestion is for all who visit Instanbul to take some time and walk through the Topkapi Palace. The Palace represent just about 500 years of the History of the Ottoman Empire.
In Topkapi palace for me as a Muslim the most beautiful place is the sacred belongings of Prophet Muhammad and his friends that brought to Istanbul from Egypt beginning of the 15th century, really original sacred belongings that when I see them makes my whole body shiver, thanks from my heart to every body served for their protection until this day.
Topkapi Palace... make sure you get there BRIGHT AND EARLY to beat the massive crowds! Once in you can take your time. I wouldnt recommend paying for a tour guide as its all pretty self explanitory. It has an extensive collection of excelently preserved artifact including John the Baptist Arm and half of his skull.... Highly Recommended, just get there early!!
I have been there several times. because, I'm Turk and I live in istanbul. when I viseted Harem, I could image life of concubines that made me upset. Concubines were slave who servised to Sultan. therefore, thanks Atat
when I visited "harem", Sultan's home, I felt terrible myself. because, there were many concubines who serviced Sultan and Sultan's mother. then, I returned myself and thanks for Atat
HArem section requires extra ticket but worthwhile. Downside : Waiting on the ticket line. If you do not like waiting : Go see the 19the century Dolmabahce PAlace's HArem - it has more of its furniture, meaning more to see waiting for you.
Topkapı Palace constructed by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, (the Conqueror) in 1478 has been the official residence of the Otoman Sultans and center of State Administration around 380 years until the construction of Dolmabah
