The spring of 1453 completely changed the fate of ancient Constantinople: on May 29, after a prolonged siege and storming, the city was conquered by the army of the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror. The Byzantine ruler of Constantinople was killed, marking the beginning of a completely different history for the centuries-old settlement. Despite several centuries having passed since these events, curious tourists today can immerse themselves in the past with the help of the Panorama Museum located in the European part of modern Istanbul.
How to Get There
The museum complex is located near a major transportation hub. Tram and metro bus stops (called "Topkapı") are nearby, and approximately a 20-minute walk away is the metro line (Topkapı—Ulubatlı station).
Many travelers are likely aware of the increased prices for visiting Istanbul's museums. For instance, in November 2022, I purchased a ticket for the panorama for 80 liras, but now its cost has risen to 500 liras. Entrance can be paid in cash or by credit card.
A Bit of History
The museum recreates the history of the conquest of Constantinople by the Turkish Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror. Guests, strolling through the circular hall, can transport themselves several centuries back and feel like spectators on the battlefield.
The museum space is a large hall with a diameter of 38 meters. On the walls of the room is a circular seamless image with scenes of battles against the backdrop of the walls of Constantinople. These defensive structures with majestic towers can still be found in Istanbul today. The painting is complemented by cannons and various objects placed between the viewer and the background.
The museum's floor area is 3000 square meters. On the panoramic image, ten thousand figures of people can be found in a 1:10 scale. Many tourists walk through the exhibition several times to examine in detail everything happening in the picture. A walk through the museum is accompanied by the sounds of cannon shots and other audio effects. The first floor of the building is occupied by stands with historical information.
The exhibition opened relatively recently, in January 2009. The construction of the complex took four years. On the premises, there is a museum shop, and guests can also purchase coins with the signature of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and the museum's logo.
The choice of location for the panorama's placement is likely not random, as the siege of ancient Constantinople took place precisely in this area. It was here that the first soldier entered the conquered city.
To further explore this period in the city's history, you can take a tour of the Seven Towers Castle. I often recommend this attraction as a very interesting place that sees relatively few tourists.
Have a nice trip!
