Sacred Relics

The Islamic Sacred Relics (Turkish: Mukaddes emanetler), also known as the Holy Relics, known collectively as the Sacred Trust, consist of religious relics sent to the Ottoman Sultans between the 16th century to the late 19th century.

With the conquest of the Arab world by Sultan Selim I (1517), the Caliphate passed from the long-vanquished Abbasids to the Ottoman sultans. The Islamic prophet Muhammad’s mantle, which was kept by the last Abbasid Caliph Mutawakkil III, was given to Selim I.

The various Relics of Muhammad, his followers, and other items purportedly associated with Muhammad were brought to Topkapı Palace in Istanbul, where they remain to this day.

The relics are housed in the former private chambers of the sultan, the Privy Chambers, which are located in the Third Courtyard of the palace.

The Destimal Chamber is the room in which Abraham's Pot, Joseph's Turban, the Staff of Moses, David's Sword, scrolls belonging to John the Baptist, and Muhammad's footprint are on display.

The Şadırvanlı Sofa is the room where the keys to the Kaaba, gutters of the Kaaba, the casing of the Black Stone (Hacerü'l-Esved), the Door of Repentance, and the swords of Muhammad's companions are on display.

The Audience Chamber, also known as the House of Petitions (Arzhane) houses a piece from a tooth of Muhammad (Dendan-ı Saadet), hair from the beard of Muhammad (Sakal-ı Şerif), the Seal of Muhammad (Mühr-ı Saadet), an autographed Letter of Muhammad (Name-ı Saadet), and Muhammad's swords and bow in their exclusive reliquary made by Ottoman goldsmiths. These are known as the Sacred Trusts (mukkades emanetler). The Qur'an is recited continuously by a mufti in this chamber.

The Chamber of the Blessed Mantle houses the Blessed Mantle and the Holy Banner of Muhammad, in their golden chests beneath a latticed silver canopy.