The first place you'll visit is the Topkapi Palace, where the Sultans and royalty lived and was also used for educational and administrative purposes. Nowadays, you can find holy Muslim relics, antiques and exhibits, such as prophet Muhammed's cloak and sword. Within the Topkapi Palace complex there are three main gates, the Imperial Gate, the Gate of Salutation, and the Gate of Felicity - four courtyards, the Harem and the Royal Gardens - known today as the Rose Garden- among others.
In the graveyard of St. Sofia you'll visit Sultan tombs. The Tomb of Sultan Selim II is one of the most beautiful in Istanbul. The Sultan had ordered a tomb for himself next to Hagia Sophia while he was still living, however since the tomb was not completed when he died, the construction of the tomb was continued and completed three years later, in 1577.
The Tomb of Sultan Murad III is one of the largest Ottoman tombs, with its hexagon layout, double domes, exterior marble coating, and the arcaded section on the front. The tomb seems unsophisticated from outside, however, its inside holds incredible beauty with the most stunning examples of coral red Iznik ceramics dated to the 16th century and hand-drawn ornamentation. As you continue your journey around the graveyard you'll discover many more royal tombs, learn about and see the rich history, bringing you much closer to the culture, traditions and legacy of The Ottoman Empire.
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