To Ottoman sultans and their courts Topkapi Palace was home in Istanbul. This large palace complex includes royal living quarters, meeting and consultation rooms, libraries, a harem, and much more. In the Ottoman tradition, the rooms are all spectacularly decorated. Many have domes, which are elaborately painted. There is magnificent stone work, and there are lovely courtyards and gardens.
Details
Fountains were a simple solution to prying ears near a room where the sultan consulted with his vazirs, one placed by the front door and the other inside. They create a white noise to mask the sound from eavesdropping.
Just like the Forbidden City, Topkapi Palace has a clock collection on display. These clocks were given as gifts from western powers.
Many of the auxiliary pavilions or rooms were added to commemorate or celebrate victories in battles. They were mostly used for libraries and study rooms. However, one was labeled as a circumcision room even though it was lavishly decorated.
Relics
The highlight for many visitors to the palace is a collection of religious relics. The main draw, as touted by our tour guide, was the selection of items belonging to or relating to the Prophet Mohammed. They include his sword, his official seal, and many pieces of his beard.
Other relics within the collection that may appeal to a wider audience include the supposed staff of Moses, turban of Joseph, sword of Daniel, and pan of Abraham. These artifacts are similar to the relic practices of the Roman Catholic Church. In many cases, I would assume the actual provenance of the objects is also a matter of faith.
The relics were taken from Saudi Arabia by the Ottomans when the conquered the area. Since Istanbul became the seat of the Caliphate for the Ottoman Empire, which included much of the traditional Muslim world, it seemed only right that they should have possession of such treasures.
Ceilings
And, the ceilings are amazing, some of the most beautiful there are!
