Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace was the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, from the mid-15th century until the 19th century.

Here are some highlights:

• Built: Construction began around 1460 under Sultan Mehmed II, shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
• Purpose: It served as the home of the sultans, the seat of the Ottoman government, and the empire’s administrative headquarters.
• Size: The palace complex covers approximately 700,000 square meters, with multiple courtyards, gardens, pavilions, and ceremonial buildings.