Topkapi Palace pictures and Topkapi Palace Harem photos. Ottoman Sultans ruled their empire from this Istanbul, Turkey palace from the 15-19th centuries. Explore the opulence enjoyed by rulers and their families. One of the highlights is a tour of the harem. Harem means "private" and was the living quarters of the Sultan, his family, and concubines. Ornate hand-painted Iznik tiles decorate almost every surface inside. Frescoes decorate non-tiled surfaces. The amount of geometric artwork is overwhelming. Depending on which version you believe, sultans enjoyed the pleasures of between 4-300 wives and concubines. All the concubines were foreigners, as law prohibited those of the same God (Muslims, Jews, Christians) from serving. Also in Topkapi Palace are the Sacred Safekeeping Rooms which contain priceless artifacts. Some items include Mohammed's hair, footprint, sword, tooth, etc. These holy relics are immersed in the sound of an imam constantly chanting the Quran. Other valuables include the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond; 5th largest in the world at 86 carats.

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