Built in 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II on Byzantine acropolis. Originally called New Palace, renamed Topkapı in 19th century. Housed up to 4,000 people at its peak. Located on Seraglio Point overlooking Golden Horn
Sultanahmet is Istanbul's historic peninsula, named after Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I. Area served as Byzantine Empire's capital from 4th century AD. Conquered by Ottomans in 1453, became Islamic cultural center
Built by Murad IV in 1639 to commemorate Baghdad Campaign. Features central dome and four iwans with cloister surrounding. Exterior tiles adorn lower windows, interior tiles used throughout
Babusselam is the main entrance to Topkapı Palace, formerly called Sarây-ı Cedîd. First appeared as simple wall passage, later transformed into double-towered structure. Current form established during Suleiman the Magnificent's reign (1524-25). Towers inspired by Hungarian conquest castles, reflecting 15th century European style
Palace serves as Ottoman imperial residence from 1453 to 19th century. Located on Sarayburnu overlooking Marmara Sea and Bosphorus. Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 during summer and winter. Combined ticket price is 1700 ₺ for palace, harem and Hagia Irene
Göbeklitepe, 12,000 years old, precedes Stonehenge as world's oldest manmade place of worship. Ephesus was Roman capital with Temple of Artemis, one of Seven Wonders. Hattusha, Hittite Empire's capital, features Lion's Gate and world's earliest peace treaty. Perge, founded 1000 BC, had 15,000-seat theater and 13 ancient sculptures. Zeugma Mosaic Museum displays restored Roman mosaics from 300 BC town