The Topkapi is an ensemble palace rather than a single building. It is several buildings separated by courtyards and gardens. Below are two fountains, one very ornate and the other simpler with a large pool.
Below: External door.
Below are some windows from one of the buildings. The use of tiles, especially blue ones, was very striking in the Topkapi.
Below is a photo of a ceiling.
Below are windows from another building.
Below: Doors.
This young Turkish family was also visiting the Topkapi.
Below: Tilework on an interior wall.
Below: Interior door.
Below: Ceiling
Below: Window.
Below: Doors.
Below: Door and window.
Below: One of the many gardens.
Below: A magnificent entrance door to one of the buildings.
The building(s)of the harem are also on display at the Topkapi, but we missed them.
After leaving the Topkapi we went to the Grand Bazaar. The bazaars of the Middle East are in my opinion clearly the fore runners of the shopping mall, and in many ways far more interesting. It would be easy to get lost. One must bargain for everything; not to bargain is considered an insult. Below are photos of the Grand Bazaar and some bargaining going on.
Below: Fishing from the wharf along the Golden Horn.
Below is a night shot across the Golden Horn showing the Sophia Dome,the Blue Mosque and a little bit of the Topkapi Palace on the left edge.
