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Topkapi Palace - The great palace of the Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries, housing an exquisite collection of precious gems, jewellery thrones of sultans, costumes worn by the sultans and their families; miniatures, the Holy Mantle; CHAMBER OF SACRED RELICS.
(Harem is not included in the program and visit is due to extra entrance fee.) -
Hagia Irene Museum - The Second Largest Church After Hagia Sophia:
The Hagia Irene located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace is the oldest church of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine). It was also the second largest church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Hagia Irene, originally means “sacred peace” (Hagia Eirene), has a special meaning as the first place where Turkish museology was born.
Hagia Irene, a typical Byzantine structure with its materials and architecture, was built on the site of an old temple in 330. During the reign of Emperor Justinianus, the Nika Revolt in 532 led to the devastation of both Hagia Sophia and the Hagia Irene, and two of them were rebuilt together.
- Professional licensed tour guide
- Entrance fees included
- Hotel drop-off in comfortable, non-smoking coaches
- All service charges and local taxes covered
- Meal, beverage
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratitues
We will arrange pick-up from your city center hotel, followed by a visit to the Sultans Tombs. These are nestled behind Hagia Sophia, housing the graves of Sultan Selim II, Sultan Murad III, Sultan Mehmed III, Sultan Mustafa I, and Sultan Ibrahim I.
Next stop, the Topkapi Palace, which was home to the Ottoman sultans over a span of nearly 400 years. The palace complex includes four main courtyards, notable Islamic relics, and Muhamed’s clock and sword.
Please note that the Sultans Tombs are closed on Mondays (we will visit the Little Hagia Sophia Mosque instead), and the Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays. Also keep in mind that the Harem isn’t included in the itinerary and requires an additional entrance fee.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
