Imperial Harem 29 Jun 2022

The Imperial Harem in Topkapı Palace occupied one of the sections of the private apartments of the sultan; it contained more than 400 rooms. The harem was home to the sultan's mother, the Valide Sultan; the concubines and wives of the sultan; and the rest of his family, including children; and their servants.The harem wing was only added at the end of the 16th century. Many of the rooms and features in the Harem were designed by Mimar Sinan.
Harem Rooms are the most interesting part of Topkapi Palace. The Harem, described by 19th century orientalist painters, looked like a place where women danced…
The word "harem" is a noun derived from the Arabic verb “harama” meaning to prohibit, forbid, or make unlawful and means that which is forbidden or that which…
The Courtyard of the Black Eunuchs includes a dormitory, prayer room, and a long corridor leading to the women’s section. The Black Eunuchs were the guardians…
Over time, the Black Eunuchs gained great importance and authority in the palace. The officers who came from Africa and spent most of their lives here earned…
The Imperial Hall (Hünkâr Sofası), also known as the Imperial Sofa, Throne Room Within or Hall of Diversions, is a domed hall in the Harem, believed to have…
Dome ceiling of the Imperial Hall
In the Imperial Hall stands the sultan's throne. The gallery was occupied by the consorts of the sultan, headed by the Queen Mother. The gilded chairs are a…
Imperial Hall
Imperial Hall
Imperial Hall
Imperial Hall