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TOPKAPI PALACE MUSEUM OF ISTANBUL

True and original Turkish art is crafted in several palaces in the country, among which, one of the most prominent is the Topkapi Palace Museum of Istanbul. Topkapi is the oldest large palace in the world that almost entirely survived.
Built in the middle of the 15th century by Sultan Mehmet, Topkapi holds many historical and cultural treasures.
When Sultan Mehmet established Istanbul as the capital of his empire, Topkapi was the second palace to be constructed on the acropolis. Strategically located in the old city area, the palace offers an astonishing view over the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Marmara Sea.
Topkapi architecture is highly appreciated by art experts, being a true example of classical value.
The tree-shaded courtyards are surrounded by several functional constructions and protected by impressive gates. The palace has been modified and improved along the centuries but its structure has always been left untouched.
Topkapi served as the official royal residence until late 19th century. It became a museum at the beginning of the 20th century and ever since, it attracts millions of visitors every year, eager to witness the traces of the Turkish evolution and tradition within its walls, which are standing still.
The Imperial Gate will lead you to the first courtyard hosting the palace complex, the Tiled Pavilion, the Archeological Museum but also the majestic Hagia Eirene Byzantine church, currently functioning as a museum.
The Gate of Salutation introduces the second courtyard that used to lay the role of administrative center in the royal palace, in the middle of which stands the Tower of Justice.
400 rooms of the private part of the palace shelter the Harem where the sultan’s members of the family used to live, his wives and concubines, supervised by eunuchs.
The Felicity Gate opens the third courtyard, the sultan’s private domain, including the imperial university, the throne room and the treasury.
The Topkapi labyrinth is amazing displaying singular collections and artistic riches, only to mention some: the collection of weapons, the porcelain collection, the costumes exhibition, the treasury section, the clock collection, the sacred relics, the portraits of the sultans.
The painting masterpieces, the woodwork, the architectural styles, the silver jewelry and the decorative items of the Topkapi Palace reveal the tradition of Turkish art and the harmony of styles co-existing along the centuries.
Topkapi Museum is an invitation to discover the best source of learning about Turkey and its culture. The famous palace is a mirror of Islamic art and creative potential reflected in its treasures.

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