In Enderun, there were kiosks and coastal palaces. At the entrance was the Arz Odası (audience hall), where the sultans welcomed ambassadors, viziers and other high-ranking officials.
The harem was a sacred and private place and entry was not permitted by anyone but the staff. It was under the control of the sultan’s mother, or Valide Sultan. She lived there along with the sultan’s children, his favourites, and his concubines (called ikbal and odalisque). Although they all lived in material luxury none of them were allowed to sit next to the sultan or go out of the palace without his permission.