Topkapi Palace, Third Courtyard. Entrance to the Holy Relics Treasury in the Conqueror's Pavilion

The Topkapi palace was expanded by sultans, and remained the sultan's residence for the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. It has opulent rooms, fine art collections, and peaceful courtyards. The palace has lush gardens, richly decorated courtyards, winding passageways, and elaborately furnished rooms. The Imperial Gate leads to the first courtyard, and the twin towers of the Gate of Salutations serve as the entry to the second courtyard of Topkapi Palace. Each of the buildings inside harbors a different type of treasure. For example, the old kitchen houses a wonderful collection of priceless Chinese porcelain and some huge ancient kitchen utensils. Topkapı Palace is "Historic Areas of Istanbul", which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, and transformed into museum of the imperial era since 1924.