Period Interventions of National Architecture in Topkapı Palace (until 1923) Topkapı Sarayı'nda Ulusal Mimarlık Dönemi Müdahaleleri (1923'e Kadar)

Abstract

After the conquest of Istanbul in 15th century, Fatih Sultan Mehmed had his second palace built in the area called the olive grove. The wooden Topkapı Palace was built on the slope of this grove overlooking the Marmara Sea. It was initially known as Saray-ı Cedid [New Palace] and was renamed Topkapı Palace in the 19th century. Topkapı Palace was expanded around four courtyards and used actively until the reign of Sultan Abdulmejid I, when the dynasty's administration was moved to Dolmabahçe Palace, after which Topkapı Palace was left neglected. Some restoration activities were later carried out before the visits of sultans who wanted to visit the Hırka-i Saadet Dairesi [Chamber of the Blessed Mantle], where the holy relics are located, especially during Ramadan. During the reign of Sultan Mehmed V in particular, repairs were carried out in Topkapı Palace to reflect the architectural style of the period. The architect Mehmet Vedat Tek was one of the architects assigned for these restoration works and one of the most important representatives of the national architecture style. In the buildings where restorations were carried out, both decorative and structural repairs were made. Some of these repairs were criticized in the Muhafaza-i Âsârı Atîka Encümeni Daimisi [Permanent Council of the Conservation of Antique Monuments] Report from October 10, 1915. The importance given to historical artifacts, museum activities, and restoration works during the reign of Sultan Mehmed V affected the repair and construction activities of the period.