Eski Saray

The Story

After the conquest of Constantinople, Mehmed II established an imperial palace at Beyazıt before the construction of the later New Palace at Sarayburnu. That distinction gave Topkapı its long-used historical designation Saray-ı Cedîd-i Âmire — the New Imperial Palace — in contrast to the Old Palace.

Eski Saray later became especially important as a residence for women of the Ottoman dynasty, including former or widowed members of the imperial household. The building disappeared, but its role is essential to understanding the spatial organisation of the early Ottoman court in Constantinople.

People Associated with This Palace

• Mehmed II — Ottoman sultan / ruler