Topkapi Palace, View to the Bosphorus Strait

Abstract

The Topkapi Palace was the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans between 1465-1856. The palace is a major tourist attraction containing some of the most holy relics of the Muslim world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. The palace was constructed between circa 1459-1465 upon an order by Sultan Mehmed II. The palace complex comprises four main courtyards and smaller buildings. The complex was Renovated circa 1509 after an earthquake and circa 1665 after a fire. Topkapi Palace lost its importance at the end of the 17th century. In 1856 the royal court moved from there, leaving the palace to serve as an accommodation for ranked officers. In 1924 the Palace was transformed by the Turkish government into a museum of the imperial Ottoman era. The Second Courtyard, called also Divan Square, is situated beyond the Middle Gate. This courtyard, considered as the outer courtyard, lead to the Third Courtyard. The 2nd courtyard was completed circa 1465 during the reign of Mehmed II, but received its final appearance circa 1525-1529 during the reign of Suleyman I. The courtyard is surrounded by the palace hospital, a bakery, Janissary quarters, stables, the imperial harem, Divan, the Imperial Council and kitchens.