Construction began in 1459 , ordered by Mehmed the Conqueror , six years after the conquest of Constantinople . Topkapı was originally called the " '' ' New Palace ' '' " ( '' Yeni Saray '' or '' Saray-ı Cedîd-i Âmire '' ) to distinguish it from the Old Palace in Beyazıt Square . It was given the name Topkapı , meaning '' ' Cannon Gate ' '' , in the 19th century . The complex was expanded over the centuries , with major renovations after the 1509 earthquake and the 1665 fire . The palace complex consists of four main courtyards and many smaller buildings . Female members of the Sultan 's family lived in the harem , and leading state officials , including the Grand vizier , held meetings in the Imperial Council building
1509 earthquake
1509 Constantinople earthquake
Topkapı Palace