Palace Collections & Treasures

The Imperial Treasury

The Treasury of Topkapi Palace is one of the world's most spectacular collections of precious objects. Accumulated over six centuries, it contains treasures that once belonged to Ottoman sultans and their families.

The Spoonmaker's Diamond

The legendary 86-carat Spoonmaker's Diamond (Kaşıkçı Elması) is one of the largest diamonds in the world. Surrounded by 49 smaller diamonds, this extraordinary gem has captured imaginations for centuries with its brilliance and the mysterious legends of its discovery.

The Topkapi Dagger

Made famous by the film "Topkapi," this jeweled dagger features three large emeralds on its hilt and a watch concealed in the pommel. Commissioned by Sultan Mahmud I in 1747, it represents the pinnacle of Ottoman craftsmanship.

The Golden Throne

Adorned with thousands of precious gems, the Golden Throne exemplifies the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire. Its intricate goldwork and embedded jewels make it one of the most valuable thrones in existence.

Chinese and Japanese Porcelain

Topkapi Palace houses one of the world's finest collections of Chinese and Japanese porcelain, with over 10,000 pieces. The collection spans from the Song Dynasty (10th century) to the Qing Dynasty (19th century).

Chinese Celadon

The celadon collection features stunning examples of Song and Yuan dynasty craftsmanship. The Ottomans prized these pieces not only for their beauty but also because they were believed to detect poison.

Blue and White Imperial Porcelain

The collection of blue and white porcelain from the Ming and Qing dynasties represents the most sophisticated ceramic art of the period. Many pieces were created specifically for the Ottoman court.

Sacred Relics

The Sacred Relics chamber houses some of Islam's most revered objects, brought to Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt in 1517, when Sultan Selim I assumed the title of Caliph.

Relics of Prophet Muhammad

The collection includes the Prophet's mantle (Hırka-i Saadet), his sword, bow, a tooth, and strands of his beard. These sacred objects are among the most precious items in the Islamic world.

Relics of the Companions

The chamber also contains belongings of the Prophet's companions, including swords of the first caliphs and other significant Islamic historical artifacts.

Holy Cities Artifacts

Items from Mecca and Medina include keys to the Kaaba and covers for the sacred Black Stone, demonstrating the Ottoman Empire's role as guardian of Islam's holiest sites.

Arms and Armor

The Arms and Armor collection showcases the military might and craftsmanship of the Ottoman Empire, with weapons and armor from Turkey, Europe, and Asia spanning several centuries.

Ottoman Swords

The collection includes ceremonial and battle swords with jeweled hilts, many bearing the tughra (signature) of sultans. These masterpieces combine deadly function with exquisite artistry.

Imperial Armor

Chain mail, helmets, and shields demonstrate the evolution of Ottoman military equipment. Many pieces are elaborately decorated with gold inlay and precious stones.

Imperial Textiles and Costumes

The textile collection preserves magnificent examples of Ottoman court dress and ceremonial robes, showcasing the empire's mastery of silk weaving, embroidery, and textile arts.

Sultan's Kaftans

Over 2,500 kaftans worn by sultans have been preserved, many featuring intricate gold and silver thread embroidery. These garments represent the height of Ottoman fashion and craftsmanship.

Prayer Carpets and Textiles

The collection includes rare silk prayer carpets and ceremonial textiles used in imperial ceremonies, many adorned with Quranic calligraphy and intricate patterns.

European Clocks

The clock collection demonstrates the Ottoman fascination with European mechanical innovations. These timepieces, many gifts from European monarchs, combine function with elaborate decoration.

Musical Automaton Clocks

Several clocks feature elaborate automaton mechanisms with moving figures and musical components, representing the pinnacle of 18th and 19th century European clockmaking.

Miniature Paintings and Manuscripts

The library and treasury contain thousands of illuminated manuscripts and miniature paintings, representing the finest examples of Ottoman, Persian, and Mughal book arts.

Ottoman Miniatures

Court painters created detailed miniatures documenting imperial ceremonies, military campaigns, and daily life in the palace. These works provide invaluable historical records of the Ottoman court.

Conservation and Research

Topkapi Palace maintains state-of-the-art conservation facilities to preserve its priceless collections for future generations. Ongoing research continues to reveal new insights into these remarkable artifacts.

The palace works with international experts and institutions to ensure the highest standards of conservation. Many items undergo rotation to minimize light exposure, meaning each visit may reveal different treasures.