Topkapı Palace - Wheelchair Rental İstanbul

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Topkapı Palace, constructed by Sultan Mehmed II between 1460 and 1478 after the conquest of Istanbul, has undergone numerous additions and renovations by subsequent sultans over the years. Originally known as Zeytinlik, the palace complex was built on a headland at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus. The initial construction involved laying out gardens and constructing pavilions, followed by the erection of walls known as Sûr-ı Sultânî or Kal‘a-i Sultânî to enclose the site. Initially referred to as the New Royal Palace in distinction from the earlier Beyazıt Palace, it later came to be known as Top Kapısı Palace after a pavilion named Toplu Kapı (Cannon Gate). Until the mid-19th century, Topkapı Palace served as both the main residence of the sultan and the center of government.

By the 1840s, however, the palace proved inadequate for state protocol requirements, leading to the construction of Dolmabahçe Palace between 1843 and 1856. This new palace became the official residence and administrative hub of the empire.

Topkapı Palace is located in one of Istanbul’s oldest neighborhoods, situated within the historic peninsula bordered by the Marmara Sea, Bosphorus Strait, and Golden Horn inlet. It stands as an iconic structure covering an area of 700,000 m² on Sarayburnu headland, which previously housed Eastern Roman acropolis. For almost four centuries, Topkapı Palace served as the epicenter for Ottoman governance, education, and artistic endeavors until Abdülmecid’s reign (1839-1861), who shifted his official residence to Dolmabahçe Palace. Nonetheless, Topkapı Palace retained its historical and symbolic significance.

On April 3rd, 1924, shortly after the establishment of the Republic of Turkey on October 29th, 1923, Topkapı Palace was transformed into a museum. It became the first museum established during the Republican era. Presently, the palace and its grounds encompass a vast area, providing visitors with a glimpse into Ottoman history and culture.