Topkapı Palace was the main residence of the sultan and his court. Initial construction began in 1459, ordered by Sultan MEHMET II. (the conqueror) was initially the seat of government as well as the imperial residence. Audience and consultation chambers and areas served for the political workings of the empire. For the residents and visitors, the palace had its own water and the great kitchens provided for nourishment on a daily basis. Dormitories, gardens, libraries, schools, even mosques, were at the service of the court. Attached to the palace were diverse imperial societies of artists and craftsmen collectively called the Ehl-i Hiref (Community of the Talented), which produced some of the finest work in the whole empire.