TOPKAPI MUSEUM
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Imperial Highlights

Palace Highlights

Masterpieces of architecture, sacred relics, and imperial treasures—discover the heart of the palace.

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3 Galleries
Treasury
Holy Relics
01
The Royal Residence

The Imperial Harem

The Harem was not merely a home but a hidden city within the palace walls. A strictly hierarchical world where the Valide Sultan (Queen Mother) reigned supreme over hundreds of residents.

Wander through the "Courtyard of the Favorites", marvel at the intricate Iznik tiles of the "Twin Kiosk", and imagine the secretive life of the Ottoman dynasty in these opulent halls.

Courtyard of the Favorites

Overlooking the Golden Horn, this was the primary living space for the Sultan's favorite consorts. The wooden balconies and intricate latticework allowed them to view the breathtaking gardens while remaining unseen.

Valide Sultan Apartments

The grandest suite in the Harem, reflecting the immense power of the Queen Mother. Features the "Dome with Frescoes" and direct access to the Sultan's private privy chamber.

The Golden Road

A narrow, cobbled passage dating back to the 15th century. It is said the Sultan passed through here on festive days, scattering gold coins to the concubines lining the walls.

Harem Interior
XVI. Century Architecture
02
Treasury
86
Carats (Spoonmaker)
Jewels of Empire

Imperial Treasury

A blinding collection of emeralds, rubies, and diamonds that reflects the absolute power of the Ottoman Sultans.

The Spoonmaker's Diamond

One of the world's largest

The Topkapi Dagger

Emerald Studded Weaponry

The Topkapi Dagger

A gift intended for Nadir Shah of Persia, this dagger features three enormous emeralds on the hilt and a watch set into the pommel. It is the symbol of the Treasury.

The Spoonmaker's Diamond

The 86-carat pear-shaped diamond, surrounded by a double row of 49 old-mine cut diamonds. Its origins are shrouded in legends of a fisherman finding it in trash.

The Nadir Shah Throne

A golden throne sent by Nadir Shah to Sultan Mahmud I. It is a masterpiece of Mughal art, decorated with pearls, emeralds, and rubies on red and green enamel.

03
Sacred Trust

The Holy Relics

Sacred artifacts of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and other prophets, preserved with utmost reverence for centuries.

"The recitation of the Holy Quran has continued uninterrupted in this chamber for over 500 years, day and night."

The Holy Mantle (Hırka-i Saadet)

The cloak of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), kept in a golden chest. It is the most sacred item in the collection and was brought to Istanbul by Sultan Selim I.

The Sacred Swords

The swords belonging to the Prophet and the four Caliphs. These weapons symbolize the caliphate authority passed to the Ottoman Sultans.

Destiny Container

A granite bowl attributed to Patriarch Abraham. It has been used for centuries to distribute ceremonial pilaf or water during sacred nights.

Holy Relics Pavilion
Privy Chamber
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