Topkapi Palace, the grand palace of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The palace houses an exquisite collection of precious gems, jewelry, thrones of sultans, costumes worn by the sultans and their families, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle. The Chamber of Sacred Relics is also part of the palace.
Please note that the Harem is not included in the program and visit is due to an extra entrance fee.
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday.
Hagia Irene Church, built during the same period (4th century) as its neighbour Hagia Sophia, is also part of the palace. The name Hagia Irene Church means 'Godly' or 'Holy Wisdom' in Greek. After the conquest of Istanbul, it was incorporated into the grounds of Topkapi Palace and, like many other churches, was converted into a mosque. However, there were no major changes made to the building's