"Gate of salutation,Topkapi palace"
The Topkapi Imperial Palace is the ottoman palace that currently serves as a museum in Istanbul and is a must-visit site for tourists visiting Istanbul. It was home to the Ottoman sultan and the sultan used to rule the huge empire from this very palace. The palace was first commissioned by the Fatih Sultan Mehmet after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453. Construction began six years later in 1459. The word Topkapı means 'Cannon Gate'. The palace was originally called Yeni Sarayı or New Castle. It was the central administrative center and the residence of Sultans until the 19th century when Sultan Abdul Mecid I moved to newly built baroque-style palaces on the bank of Bosphorus. The palace sustained damage during the 1509 earthquake and 1665 fire and was renovated and vastly extended afterward.
"Felicity door and dome, Topkapi palace"
The palace itself consists of four beautiful courtyards, decorated pavilions with the throne of the sultans, Kosk with dazzling ornamentation, a Harem clad with breathtaking tile works, and a treasury with the most valuable collection of armory and sacred religious items such as the sword of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) and the swords of first four khalifs of Islam along with many more.
Contrary to the popular belief, the Harem was an institution tightly governed by the mother of the Sultan according to Islamic law. The harem, which literary means 'forbidden', was no playground for Sultans, it was a residing place. The Harem served as an organization where the future sultans were provided with education and training, simultaneously the women also got their education in religion, ottoman culture, and etiquette from here.
"Baghdad Kiosk, Topkapi"
Huge selections of porcelain, ottoman robes, weapons, Ottoman miniatures, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts, as well as other Ottoman treasures and jewelry are exhibited in the Topkapi Palace Museum. The Palace Treasury houses an amazing collection of the most beautiful and well-known jewels in the world, including the renowned Spoonmaker's Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger. The palace was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1985 considering its historical and artistic importance.
In conclusion, Topkapi Imperial Palace is a magnificent historical landmark in Istanbul, Turkey, that offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire. The palace served as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years and features a vast collection of artwork, treasures, and relics.
The palace is divided into different courtyards, each showcasing different aspects of Ottoman culture and history, such as the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and the Royal Kitchen. Visitors can also explore the palace's impressive gardens and admire the stunning architecture and intricate tile work.
Topkapi Palace is a popular tourist destination and can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance and plan to spend several hours exploring the palace and its grounds.
Overall, Topkapi Palace is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Ottoman history and culture. It's a testament to the grandeur and luxury of the Ottoman Empire and remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul.
You can also experience this amazing Historical Palace with great accommodation and transportation facilities, and knowledgeable tour guides with various language skills, just by contacting Ottoman Tours and Travels.
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