Three parts of one palace
The main building has three sections: the Selamlık, where the affairs of state were conducted; the Harem, where the sultan and his family lived; and, between them, the great Ceremonial Hall, used for state ceremonies and religious holidays.
Crystal, carpets and porcelain
Hereke carpets, Baccarat crystal, Sèvres and Yıldız porcelain and paintings by Western artists decorate the rooms. Notice how the chandeliers and mirrors multiply the light.
East and West together
Rooms keep the traditional Turkish plan of a central hall with rooms around it, while Baroque, Rococo and Neo-Classical decoration covers walls and ceilings.
