Topkapı Palace Museum Library

After its transformation into a museum in 1924, the Agalar Mosque in the third courtyard of the Topkapı Palace was transformed into a library. Gathered from different sections of the Palace, they were classified according to their original place and Emanet Hazinesi [Treasury of Trusts], Hazine [Treasury], Revan Kosku [Mansion], Bagdat Kosku [Mansion], Hirka-i Saadet, Mehmed Resad ve Tiryal Hanim, Medine, Koguslar, Isfendiyarogullari, Halil Han Arda, Sultan Ahmed III and non-Islamic manuscripts locations were formed. The newer books were acquired either through purchases or donations and have been gathered in the New Manuscripts Section. The books from the Sultan Ahmed III Library were moved into the new library in 1966. There are approximately 13,450 manuscripts found in the library in various different languages, including Turkish, Persian, Arabic, Greek, Latin, Armenian, Serbian, Hebrew, and Syriac.

There are also sample calligraphy works of Ottoman calligraphers. Tools related to this art, such as the reed pen, kalemdar, pen drawer, scissors, pen knife (sharpener), wooden cases for the Qur’an, lecterns, seals, and maps. Services to make copies of the printed materials as well as microfilms, photographs, and media services are provided.

Year of Establishment: 1928