image credit The Topkapi Palace is a large palace in Istanbul, Turkey, that was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for approximately 400 years (1465-1856) of their 624-year reign. As well as a royal residence, the palace was a setting for state occasions and royal entertainments.
It is now a major tourist attraction and contains important holy relics of the Muslim world, including Muhammed's cloak and sword. The massive complex consists of four courtyards and hundreds of rooms, and the treasures on display are among the world's most valuable.
