Five-Century Quran Recitation Tradition Continues Unbroken at Istanbul’s Topkapı Palace

Five-Century Quran Recitation Tradition Continues Unbroken at Istanbul’s Topkapı Palace
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A continuous Quran recitation tradition that began more than 500 years ago under Ottoman Sultan Yavuz Sultan Selim continues without pause at Istanbul’s historic Topkapı Palace, IQNA reported.

In the Sacred Trusts Chamber, located in the palace’s Enderun Courtyard, hafizes — individuals who have memorized the Quran — take turns reciting verses around the clock. Twenty-eight hafizes rotate every 45 to 60 minutes, completing one full recitation, or Khatim, each day, amounting to 365 annual recitations.

The practice began after Sultan Selim brought the Prophet Muhammad’s sacred relics to Istanbul following his Egyptian campaign in 1517. These relics, including the Prophet’s mantle, sword, and a tooth from the Battle of Uhud, remain safeguarded in the chamber, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Ilhan Kocaman, head of the Topkapı Palace Department, said the recitation symbolizes a living connection between the Ottoman legacy and present-day Turkey. Hafiz Halil Ibrahim Akgün described participating in the centuries-old relay as “a divine blessing” and “a bridge between the past and the future.”