Topkapı Palace

Built in the 15th century, this palace used to be the sultans' residence. In the 19th century, the sultan decided to move to the Dolmabahce palace, but the royal treasury remained in the Topkapi Palace. Nowadays, the complex houses collections of various precious artefacts, namely the cloak and sword owned by Muhammed.

There are three courtyards connected with each other with three gates. The First Courtyard can be entered through the Imperial Gate - a massive gate with a calligraphy decoration. This courtyard is occupied by a Byzantine church of Hagia Irene which is surrounded by a nice park.

To get to the Second Courtyard, one must go through the Middle Gate, which is also known as the Gate of Salutation. There are plenty of interesting things to see - the Imperial Council where important meetings took place, the palace kitchens where the most delicious meals for sultan were prepared, the arms collection, the exhibition of imperial carriages and so much more.

The Third Courtyard is situated beyond the Gate of Felicity. The Audience Chamber, the Imperial Harem, the Imperial Treasury and many more important buildings can be found here.