Turkey: Visiting The Topkapi Palace & Taking A Turkish Bath

A Day of Inspiration: From Topkapi Palace to Turkish Bath Cleansing

The day I visited the Topkapi Palace Museum was magical. I was not even planning to go, but I met another Brazilian solo traveler at the Hagia Sofia Mosque and she convinced me that it was worth the time and visit. I took her word for it and did not regret it. Located in Istanbul, overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, this iconic landmark showed me how the Ottoman Empire was. It left me inspired to go on to another experience right after, a traditional Turkish bath at a centenary in Haman. Let me share both experiences with you!

Arriving at the Topkapi Palace

As I entered the gates of the Topkapi Palace, I was transported back in time to the 15th century, when Sultan Mehmed II commissioned this majestic complex after his conquest of Constantinople. The palace once served as the primary residence and administrative hub for Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Today, it stands as a museum, preserving the opulence of an era.

When the guide told us, me and my recently-made Brazilian friend, that more than 4,000 people used to live there, I imagined the lives of the sultans, their families, and the countless courtiers who lived within these walls. The palace was a self-contained city, with everything that they needed to live privately inside kitchens, gardens, and surrounding areas.

I was particularly excited to visit the Harem, a section surrounded by mystery. The details of the tiles, the luxurious chambers, and the air of secrecy left me fascinated. It was in these private quarters that the sultan’s family lived, under strict protocols and a rigid social structure. In one of the chambers, I felt a profound connection and could visualize myself living there in another life. It gave me goosebumps and every time I tell this story to someone, the memory comes back to my mind!

A Showcase of Arts and Crafts

As a good old art teacher, I was inside this place looking for the treasures. It did not disappoint me at all. Each room was devoted to showing the Ottoman story and techniques of that time. Some of the arts and crafts that I encountered:

• Calligraphy: Delicately inscribed Quranic texts and imperial decrees demonstrated the importance of beauty in written form.

  
  
  

  

  

  

  
  
  

• Jewels: Emeralds, diamonds, and other treasures were displayed in the Imperial Treasury Room.

  
  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  
  
  
  

• Ceramics and Tiles: The Iznik tiles, with their blues and patterns, adorned walls and ceilings, showing the attention to detail and the beauty of each piece.

  
  
  

  

  

  
  
  

• Miniatures and Paintings: These detailed works told stories of the court and historical events, showcasing the skills of Ottoman artists.

  
  
  

  

  
  
  
  
  

Coffee, Tea, and the Royal Servants

One of the most fascinating sections of the palace was dedicated to coffee and tea traditions. These beverages held significant cultural importance, symbolizing hospitality and refinement. The guide told us that only the Sultan’s most trusted servant was allowed to prepare and serve coffee, highlighting the drink’s esteemed status and the care given to ensure the Sultan’s safety.

The coffee and tea sets on display were my favorites. Made from gold, silver, and porcelain, many were encrusted with precious stones, reflecting the luxury of the Ottoman court. These pieces were functional works of art, embodying the empire’s dedication to aesthetics and ceremony.

Another highlight was the collection of costumes worn by the sultans. The wardrobe room featured several garments, many of which were a surprising shade of pink—a color that symbolized power and elegance in Ottoman culture. The craftsmanship of these outfits was extraordinary, with embroidery, fancy fabrics, and elaborate designs that conveyed the Sultan’s status and taste.

The Palace Grounds

It was perfect weather in December to walk around the gardens and courtyards of the Palace. The palace's proximity to the Bosphorus Canal highlights Istanbul’s control over one of the world’s most critical waterways, which has been pivotal in trade and military strategy for centuries. Standing in the courtyards, with the Galata Tower visible in the distance, I could imagine the historical significance of these places — the waterways with merchant ships and the skyline dominated by minarets and domes reflecting the city’s rich history.

Exploring the entire palace complex took me close to five hours. Each corner revealed something new—a piece of history, a stunning work of art, or a story that brought the Ottoman Empire to life. It was a great cultural visit and it marked my exploration days in Turkey, a country that I can see myself visiting over and over again!

Why Topkapi Palace is a Cultural Treasure?

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Topkapi Palace shows the influence of the Ottoman Empire. Its architecture, art, and historical significance highlight the Turkish heritage, and it is of incredible value for world history.

The palace stands as a testament to the empire's artistic achievements, blending Islamic, Byzantine, and Persian architectural elements into a cohesive and design that reflects the multicultural influences of its time. The tilework, the beautiful domes, and the interiors of the palace, including the Imperial Harem and the Treasury Room, highlight the sophistication of Ottoman art and craftsmanship. Beyond its architectural beauty, the palace houses a collection of historical artifacts, including sacred Islamic relics, jewel-encrusted weaponry, textiles, and manuscripts that show the empire's rich cultural and religious traditions.

As I left the palace, I felt a great sense of inspiration and desire to explore more architectural sites that hold a Turkish story. But since walking for that long took all my energy, I decided to combine a relaxing time with more research. so, I headed to my next destination: the Çemberlitaş Hamamı.

The Turkish Bath Experience: A Cleansing Ritual

The front of the Çemberlitaş Hamamı might not be as interesting, but what it's inside will mesmerize you!

The Çemberlitaş Hamamı, also located in Istanbul, perfectly complemented my journey through the Topkapi Palace. Built in 1584 by Nurbanu Sultan, the mother of Sultan Murad III, this historic Turkish bath has stood as a sanctuary of cleansing and relaxation for centuries.

Much like the Topkapi Palace, the Çemberlitaş Hamamı shows the Ottoman Empire’s dedication to combining beauty, functionality, and cultural significance. Stepping inside, the atmosphere and the stunning architecture of domed ceilings and marble surfaces made me feel again back in time. The experience itself was both a physical and spiritual cleansing. As I lay on the heated marble platform, feeling the steam wrap around me, I thought of the sultans and courtiers who might have engaged in similar rituals. The traditional kese (exfoliation) and köpük (foam massage) it was like being bath in heaven, with clouds touching my skin and smoothing my muscles, tired from the exploration from before!

Connecting the Two Experiences

Both the Topkapi Palace and the Çemberlitaş Hamamı left me with a great appreciation for the Ottoman emphasis on ritual and refinement. While the palace showcased the majesty of imperial life, the hammam revealed the everyday elegance of their traditions. Together, these places told a story of a civilization that valued both luxury and mindfulness.

By the end of the day, I stopped one more time with my Brazilian friend to taste a Turkish tea and warm up our bodies, before heading back to our hotel. I felt physically rejuvenated and deeply connected to the cultural legacy of Istanbul. The harmony between the two experiences made the day unforgettable, and I’d recommend pairing a visit to the Topkapi Palace with a traditional Turkish bath to anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the richness of Ottoman heritage.

Hope you have great adventures and experiences when you travel too!

Ms. Mila