The Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is an architectural marvel that celebrates the rich culture and history of the Ottoman Empire. Did you know that the palace kitchen comprises a collection of almost 12,000 porcelain pieces, including a celadon bowl from China that would, apparently, change color if the food within contained poison? If you’re in Istanbul, a visit to Topkapi Palace is a must-do if you want to indulge in the city’s rich history and culture. The Topkapi Palace is one of the world’s largest surviving palaces and was built between 1460 and 1478 under the orders of Sultan Mehmed II a few years after he conquered Constantinople. The palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four centuries. It was also the state’s administrative and educational headquarters. After Mehmed’s death, about 30 sultans ruled from the palace renovating and expanding it to its current appearance - a unique mix of Islamic, European, and Ottoman architecture styles. Comprising four courtyards and over 400 rooms, the palace was home to an estimated 4,000 people, including 300 concubines in the Harem. I reccomend visit the museum and harem topkapi.