Daily Tour
1 person
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Our tour begins at Topkapi Palace, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. Built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the palace became the heart of Ottoman governance after the conquest of Istanbul. Accompanied by a professional guide, the main sections of the palace are explored in detail.
After entering through the main gate of Topkapi Palace, we arrive at the First Courtyard. This area was used for military and official ceremonies during the Ottoman period. Our guide provides an overview of the palace layout, daily palace life, and the Ottoman state system. Brief information is given about Hagia Irene Church and the palace walls.
The Second Courtyard was the center of Ottoman state administration. Here, detailed explanations are given about:
Imperial Council (Divan-ı Hümayun),
Tower of Justice,
Palace kitchens.
Our guide explains how state affairs were conducted, the roles of the Grand Viziers, and the palace protocol. The palace kitchens and their famous collection of Chinese porcelain are also introduced.
The Third Courtyard is one of the most important parts of the palace and marks the entrance to the Sultan’s private area. The Enderun education system, where high-ranking Ottoman statesmen were trained, is explained in detail.
In this section, information is provided about:
Audience Chamber, where the Sultan received foreign ambassadors,
Privy Chamber,
The daily life of palace officials.
One of the most impressive parts of the tour is the Sacred Relics Section. Here, visitors receive historical and religious information about:
Sacred relics belonging to Prophet Muhammad,
Items associated with the Four Caliphs.
The Ottoman concept of the Caliphate and its role in the Islamic world are also explained.
The Imperial Treasury, reflecting the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire, is visited. Our guide provides detailed information about:
The Spoonmaker’s Diamond,
The Topkapi Dagger,
Jeweled thrones, precious gifts, and royal treasures.
The Harem is one of the most intriguing and private areas of the palace. Accompanied by the guide, visitors learn about the organization of the Harem, the roles of the Valide Sultan, concubines, and the Sultan’s family. Common myths about the Harem are clarified with historical facts.
In the final part of the tour, terraces offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn are visited. Information is given about the Baghdad Pavilion, Revan Pavilion, and palace gardens, as well as the leisure and ceremonial traditions of the Ottoman sultans.
Our Topkapi Palace Tour concludes with breathtaking views of Istanbul.