The Topkapi Palace was built in a brilliant location, with stunning views onto the water below.  The Palace is now a museum and on the whole I’d say that a visit there is more about the museum exhibits than about the building and life at the Palace.

That is not to put you off visiting, at all; some of the exhibits are fascinating.  I particularly liked the exhibition of jewels and treasures.  The ornate bejeweled and gilded pots and other paraphernalia were simply stunning. As a lover of fashion, fabrics and sewing, I also enjoyed the kaftan exhibition.  Judging by the considerable size of the garments, the Sultans either wore many undergarments or else they were pretty portly people.  One of the cabinets definitely housed the largest pair of pants I’ve ever seen!  Photography was banned so I’m afraid I can’t share any of these items with you visually.

Neither did the grey, wet weather provide any good outdoor photo opportunities until I came across these yellow flowers brightening up the garden.

Linked to Monday Mellow Yellow.