The Gate of Charisius
A Site of Many Battles
The Gate of Charisius was a significant location in the history of Constantinople, and many important events took place there....
The Gate of Charisius and the Mesoteichion
The Gate of Charisius is located near a direct road that leads to the Imperial Cemetery, making its name very appropriate. The name may...
The Hall of the Holy Garment The Most Sacred Place in Turkey
The Chirkau Scherif, or Hall of the Holy Garment, is considered the most sacred place in all of Turkey. This special room is located...
The History of the Seraglio and the Fate of Sultans
From the time of Mohammed II, who conquered Constantinople in 1453, to Abdul Medjid in 1864, who moved to the brighter Dolma-Baghtcheh Palace on...
The Seraglio A Historical Landmark
The Seraglio of the Sultan is a vast group of buildings surrounded by a strong wall. It sits at the very tip of the...
Political Conspiracies and Power Struggles in Ottoman Turkey
The Source of All Conspiracies
All the conspiracies against the Sultan came from within his own circle of people and his immediate attendants. The threats...
Sultan Abdul Hamid II A Ruler Living in Fear
The Sultan's Reputation for Cowardice
Abdul Hamid II, who was the Sultan of Turkey and turned sixty years old in September 1902, had a reputation...
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror’s Conquest Letters
Strengthening Bonds with Mecca
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror continued the tradition of sending conquest letters, known as “be§aretname,” to announce the conquest of Istanbul. These...
Diplomatic Correspondence and Gift Exchange
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror’s Announcement of the Conquest of Istanbul
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror continued the tradition of announcing conquests to the Islamic world through...
Ottoman Diplomacy and Wealth
Accumulation During Sultan Murad II’s Reign
Diplomatic Endeavors and Treaty Agreements
During both periods of Sultan Murad II’s reign, the Ottomans were engaged in military campaigns...
