23 August 2002 - Topkapi Palace, Istanbul
After studying a bit of Ottoman history at Oxford, it made sense to visit the seat of Imperial power.
Gates are an essential feature of houses in the Islamic world, and the Imperial Gate is a large-scale example.
Under the trees of the Second Courtyard is the Council Chamber, where State business was conducted.
Was it because of this room that the phrase "Gilded Cage" was developed?
The sultans didn't actually take part in the councils, but observed proceedings from behind a grille.
If the sultan wanted to talk to an individual minister, he was summoned through this door into the Harem.
The Gate of Felicity was as far as foreigners ever penetrated into the palace.
Beyond it is the Third Courtyard, another beautiful, green area.
To celebrate military victories, the sultans often constructed new pleasure pavilions inside the palace.
From there are some of the best views of the city.
Although the gorgeous Iznik tiles make the interiors just as spectacular.
