Attractions Near Topkapi Palace

Gokce Nacar

Apr 02 478 read

Attractions Near Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, which is one of the most popular and historical touristic places in Istanbul, has so many visitors every day due to its historical past and old, valuable architecture. However, if you want to visit Topkapi Palace, you may not know where to go after the trip. For this reason, you may need a guide to list other attractions near Topkapi Palace.

Here is a list for you!

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Grand Mosque

Neighboring Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia could be one of the best choices to see. The mosque was a church during the Byzantine Empire and after Istanbul was conquered by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, it started to be used as a mosque. Although it collapsed 2 times and was rebuilt 3 times, the mosque is still alive ad displays the historical traces of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Now the Hagia Sophia Mosque is the 8th wonder of the world due to its great architecture and history.

If you are around Topkapi Palace, do not miss visiting Hagia Sophia Mosque!

Hagia Irene (Aya Irini) Museum

Meaning Holy Peace in Greek, Hagia Irene Church was first built as a basilica with three sections: naos, narthex, and atrium. The atrium is the only part that survived from the Byzantine period.

Due to some devastating earthquakes and wars, the museum was restored and after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, Hagia Irene Church has converted into a museum unlike Hagia Sophia Mosque because it was used as an army storehouse. Now the museum hosts different cultural activities and amazing exhibitions. Due to its professional acoustic architecture, classical music events are like visual fasts!

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) Museum

Known as one of the other impressive and historical places near Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern is one of the most salient buildings in Istanbul.

Built during the Byzantine period, Basilica Cistern was used to meet the water needs of the Great Palace. The water was coming from the Belgrad Forests, which is 19 kilometers away.

After the conquest of Istanbul, Basilica Cistern was used to meet the water need of the gardens of Topkapi Palace, however, due to some religious reasons, Basilica Cistern was not used and therefore forgotten. Now it is a great visual sight for those who want to see old historical columns and feel the quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Gulhane Park

Gulhane Park (Rose Garden) is one of the most impressive and beautiful parks in Istanbul and it is close to Topkapi Palace.

Opened to the public in 1912 and located in between Sirkeci and Sultanahmet neighborhoods, Gulhane Park was used for some military barracks. Besides these, the park hosted celebrations and ceremonies during the Ottoman period. In 1955, a zoo was built in the park.

Later on, the zoo moved to Ankara but Gulhane Park is still amazing with its huge green area that includes numerous beautiful trees and flowers. Also, there are pools and cafes with an amazing Bosphorus view!