Istanbul - Discover Turkey: Experience the Best of Turkey - page 112

Need to Know
TOP TIP The Harem is well worth the extra " 15. GUIDES Organise a tour in ad-
vance or opt for the rudimentary audio guide ( " 10). For further coverage, Click
here
Topkapı Palace Don't Miss
List
BY ATILLA TUNA, CHIEF GUIDE AT İSTANBUL WALKS
1 HAREM
This is not only the most fascinating place in the palace, but in all İstanbul: the home
of the Ottoman sultans. The sultan's office was here, so he spent much of his time here
when in İstanbul. The Harem remained largely secret despite the interest of the outside
world, and once you step into the labyrinthine corridors of this amazing structure, you
will find yourself in an unknown world full of stories. Just imagine that, once upon a
time, between the silent walls of this extraordinary building, the sounds of laughter and
tears of concubines, eunuchs and sultans were heard.
2 TREASURY
An exhibition not to be missed, this spectacular collection includes emeralds, pearls
and jade - an endless variety of precious stones. Watch the movie Topkapi (with
Melina Mercouri and Peter Ustinov) before visiting the Treasury, and remember your
'spiritual spectacles' - or your glittering eyes will be overcome with excitement.
3 DIVANHANE
The Divanhane is the best illustration of the modesty and simplicity of the Ottoman
world. This was the administration building of one of the most powerful empires in
history, yet it doesn't try to show the power of the emperor, but rather his spiritual sim-
pleness. Inside, you won't find a throne for the sultan, but a gold-plated iron frame