The Golden Throne

This golden throne tells a quiet story of power and ceremony.

It was used at the Gate of Felicity, known as Bab-ı Saadet. This gate was a very important place in Topkapı Palace. It stood between the outer palace world and the private world of the sultan.

The throne was placed there for accession ceremonies. An accession ceremony was the moment when a new sultan took the throne. It was also used for festival ceremonies.

It has seen many historic events. It was made in the mid-18th century. It replaced an older throne that had become worn out.

The throne is covered with gold. It is also decorated with chrysolites, a kind of precious stone with a green shine. Paintings from that age also help us understand how rich and bright these ceremonies looked.

The last time this throne was used was on July 4, 1918. It was for the accession ceremony of Mehmed the Sixth. He was the last Ottoman sultan.