Topkapi Palace

The Imperial Gate opens onto the first courtyard.

The Church of Hagia Eirene was never destroyed and survived by being a storehouse and an armory.  Today it is a museum.

The Gate of Salutation

The Palace Kitchens

Inside view of the chimney of the palace kitchens.

The Gate of Felicity

Magnolia Trees!

The place where the Sultan would breakfast.

Courtyard of the Eunuchs 

Courtyard of the Concubines

A Cistern

Topkapi Palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1465 - 1856, it was also the site of state occasions and royal entertainment.At one time it housed over 4000 people and included mosques, hospital, bakeries and a mint.  It is now a museum that houses weapons, armor, jewelry, porcelain and architectural treasures.