Ottoman Relics
The Price : € 40.00
Select Date and Travelers
Duration : 6 Hours
Start Location: Istanbul
Highlights
- Discover the ancient relics of the Ottoman Empire.
- Explore the rich history of Topkapi Palace with an expert guide.
- See the final resting places of the great Ottoman Sultans and their families.
Departure
We’ll pick you up from your hotel between 12:30 – 13:00.
(Only from Sultanahmet, Laleli, Taksim areas)
Background
Topkapi Palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years and now a UNESCO world heritage site as the best example of palaces. Sacred Islamic relic of prophet Mohammed, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts and murals, large collections of porcelains, robes, weapons, armors, shields, Ottoman miniatures, imperial treasures and jewelery are exhibited at the palace. Harem is not included in the program.
The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the
Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in İstanbul after Hagia
Sophia. It’s a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site
of an old temple in 330.
The Sultan Tombs, which consist of five, can be found at the Hagia Sophia graveyard. One of the most aesthetically pleasing tombs is that of Sultan Selim, which was constructed by the architect Sinan. The tomb of Sultan Murat II is considered to be one of the largest in the Ottoman Empire. Sultan Mehmet II’s tomb features unique decor, including star, flower, and landscape imagery, which deviates from the traditional ornamentation of the time period. Additionally, the tombs of the princes were also built by Sinan.
Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday. Sultan Tombs is closed on Monday/replaced with Little Hagia Sophia Mosque.
This tour ends approximately at 20:00 pm