Topkapi Palace, seat of the Sublime Porte

Topkapı Palace is situated in an incredibly beautiful and awe-inspiring area, overlooking the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara simultaneously, as well as various points of the Bosphorus strait. The palace owes its enchanting view to the hill on which it was built.

History of Topkapı Palace:

Construction of Topkapı Palace began in 1459 by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and was completed after several years. Initially, it was known as "Beyazıt Sarayı" (The New Palace), but later its name was changed to Topkapı Sarayı (Topkapı Palace) in the 19th century.

The palace underwent renovations twice, first after an earthquake in 1509 and then after a fire broke out in 1665.

The palace served as the center of the Ottoman Caliphate from its construction until 1856 when the headquarters were moved to Dolmabahçe Palace by Sultan Abdülmecid I.

In 1924, Topkapı Palace was converted into a museum and houses precious artifacts from the Islamic world, including several items believed to have belonged to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Topkapı Palace from the Inside:

Inside the palace, visitors can find several remarkable exhibits, including:

1. Personal belongings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
   • Part of his staff.
   • The kohl tube that he used to apply kohl to his noble eyes.
   • The water container he used for ablution and the stone he used for dry ablution (tayammum).
   • His seal ring.
   • His mantle.
   • His turban.
   • His shoes.
2. Correspondence of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
   • A letter sent by the Prophet (peace be upon him) to the Byzantine Emperor.
   • A response from the Prophet (peace be upon him) to the false prophet Musaylimah.
3. Other artifacts related to the Prophet (peace be upon him):
   • The Prophet's (peace be upon him) battle flag used by Ali ibn Abi Talib during the Battle of Khaybar.
   • A hair and strands from the Prophet's (peace be upon him) beard.
   • A tooth of the Prophet (peace be upon him) lost during the Battle of Uhud.
   • An imprint of his footprint found in the Dome of the Rock after the Night Journey and Ascension.

Opening Hours of Topkapı Palace:

Topkapı Palace is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Tuesdays.

Entrance Fee to Topkapı Palace:

The ticket price is approximately $10 USD per adult, and children under 6 years old can enter for free.

Address of Topkapı Palace:

Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul.