Istanbul, with all its splendor and history, is home to quite a number of castles and palaces. After all, it has been home to some of the most important people, some who figured prominently in the annals of world history. Istanbul has been home to emperor and sultans. It is no wonder that it holds a lot of palaces that are beautiful and splendid in their own right.
Here is a rundown on the castles and palaces you can find in Istanbul.
- Topkapi Palace
This is home to the Ottoman Sultans for 4 centuries and you can be sure that it is made according to standards of royalty. It has some of the city’s most beautiful gardens, as well as 4 courts. There is the Court of Processions, the Second Court (which includes the Imperial Council Chamber and the kitchens). In the chamber, you will see a breathtaking gate with windows covered by gold lattice. The kitchen contains a large Chinese porcelain collection. The Third Court was home to the Imperial Family, as well as the treasury. The treasury will require extra admission fees, but it’s well worth the money. Here, you will find the 5th largest diamond in the world, the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, as well as a fascinating array of treasures – jewelry and ornaments used during the times of the Sultans. The Third Court is also home to a magnificent collection of holy relics, such as dust from the Prophet Mohammed’s tomb, the very sandals that he wore, and footprints he made. You will also get a glimpse of how royalty lived – their bath or hamam is covered with gold decorations.
Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (Harem – until 4:00 p.m. only) Wednesdays to Mondays
Address: Sultanahmet (at the back of the Hagia Sophia)
- Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahce Palace is the more European version of the Topkapi Palace. Upon entering the palace, you will see an immense gate that looks like white lace. This fabulous gate is actually made up of thick metal and is just an introduction of what you will see inside. The gardens are lined with trees and flowers. When you get in the palace itself, you will see quite a number of paintings, period furniture (sofas, tables and armchairs), and the famed carpets Turkey is known for. There are a number of ceremonial halls, some of which hold breathtakingly beautiful chandeliers (some of them made of Baccarat crystal). The throne room holds a chandelier presented to the sultan by the queen of England. It is said to be one of the biggest Baccarat chandeliers in the world.
The walls are also elaborately designed and adorned, and you will also find stately columns along the entire building. The Dolmabahce Palace was also the home of Ataturk. In fact, this was where he died, quietly, on his bed. During one of the compulsory guided tours, you will also find the Ceremonial Suites, which is the administrative building of the empire. Here, you will find a treasure house of artifacts, mementos and gifts presented to the Ottoman sultans by neighboring countries. Another highlight of the palace is the crystal staircase. Actually, it is only the balustrades that are made of crystal, while the steps are made of hard word.
Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Address: Dolmabahce Cad, Besiktas
- Ciragan Palace
Now part of one of Istanbul’s finest hotels, Ciragan Palace was ordered built by Sultan Abdulaziz in 1855. To see the “latest” he first version was made of wood interiors, while its exteriors were made of marble of different colors. Since then, the palace has undergone five renovations. The latest renovation imbibed the place with a baroque style.
Opening Hours: Common areas of the hotel – 24 hours
Address: Ciragan Cad, Besiktas
- Yildiz Palace
This was built during the late 18th century and was ordered built by Selim III. Today, it is actually a collection of different buildings and also connects to the Ciragan Palace via a stone and marble bridge.
Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays
Summer Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Winter Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 500 p.m.
Address: Besiktas
Some palaces and castle you should also check out include:
- The Tekfur Palace: This is connected to the city walls. You will find the Chora church museum nearby.
- Bryas Palace: Harking back to the 9th century, there are only a few remnants of the building.
- The Blakherna Palace
- The Great Palace – you will not find it standing, although its remains (particularly the floor mosaics) are located at the Mosaics Museum.
- Mangana Palace – can be found inside the Topkapi Palace compound.
- Magnaura Palace
- Beyelerbeyi Palace
- Bucoleon Palace