Topkapi Palace’s Sacred Relics Prepared for Ramadan
The Speed Cruses Department of the Topkapi Palace, under the National Palaces Presidency, has undergone a meticulous cleaning process in preparation for the upcoming month of Ramadan. A feverish study is currently underway in the section that was flooded during the eleven Sultan Ramadan. The Bible Department of Relics, which houses priceless artifacts from carpets to tiles, from the ground to the dome, is undergoing thorough maintenance and cleaning to ensure that the works are exhibited in a pristine condition.
The Bible Department of Relics, located in the Enderun Courtyard of Topkapi Palace, has been showcasing valuable works from the Turkish and Islamic world for over 500 years. The relics brought to Istanbul after Yavuz Sultan Selim’s Egyptian campaign in 1517 have been carefully preserved and displayed for centuries. Among the sacred relics housed in this section are the cardigan-i saadet belonging to the Prophet Muhammad, letters of the Prophet, his sword, cloak, Sakal-ı Sharif, and the broken footprint from the Uhud War. Additionally, relics from the Harem-i Şerif, such as swords of the four caliphs and companions, keys to the Kaaba, and the Hacerü’l Esved Mahfazası, are also on display.
The maintenance and cleaning of the Bible Department of Relics are being carried out by the National Palaces Object Maintenance and Conservation Team, the first of its kind in Turkey. The team is meticulously cleaning carpets, tiles, silver oil lamps, incense burners, candlesticks, wooden window covers, cabinets, and marble niches. Special care is taken in cleaning the Cardigan-i Saadet and Sancak-ı Şerif housing with museum-specific vacuum sets, HEPA filter devices, and horse hair brushes.
In 2023, a comprehensive rearrangement was done in the Bible Department of Evales, increasing the number of works exhibited from 60 to 300. The Hz. Mushaf, attributed to Osman, was reintroduced to visitors after a long hiatus. As part of these efforts, a historical opening was made, and the room where the Hırka-i Saadet is kept was opened for the first time.
Regarding the ongoing preparations at the Department of Safety, the President of the National Palaces, Yasin Yıldız, emphasized the significance of the Bible Department of Relics within Topkapi Palace. With the approach of Ramadan, special cleaning efforts are being made in accordance with tradition to ensure that the palace is ready for the influx of visitors during the holy month.
In conclusion, the meticulous cleaning and maintenance of the Speed Cruses Department of the Topkapi Palace reflect the dedication to preserving and presenting the rich cultural heritage housed within its walls. As the sacred relics are readied for Ramadan, visitors can look forward to experiencing the historical and religious significance of these artifacts in a fresh and pristine setting.
