İstanbul’un gümüs şehri: Tophane ve Tophâne-i Âmire

Abstract

In this study, we will examine, from the point of history, in general, and of history of engineering, in particular, the district of Tophane of Istanbul and the Royal Cannon Foundry, which was found during Mehmed II’s reign (1451-1481). Mehmed II paid much attention to the production of firearms after the conquest of Constantinople; he constructed a casting centre called “Tophâne-i Âmire”, the biggest casting centre of the day, which employed both local and foreign gunners. Even though there is not much specific information about the arsenal of cannons during the reign of Mehmed II, it is known that the Ottomans produced several types of cannons during his period. It is also known that cannons of large calibres were cast. Indeed, some parts of these cannons survive to the present day. Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent (1520-1566) demolished the old foundries and at the same place, he built a new complex for cannon founding and barracks for gunners. Many skilled people were employed in the Tophâne-i Âmire. The Tophâne-i Âmire complex, which included the foundry, barracks, storehouses, carpentry and a training centre, was a big centre of military industry.