After the death of the Grand Signior, different rules applied to the women of the Seraglio depending on whether they had borne sons or daughters. The mothers of daughters were granted freedom to leave the Seraglio. They were allowed to live outside its walls and could marry men of rank and quality if they wished. This freedom marked the end of their formal connection to the imperial household.
However, the situation was very different for the women who had given birth to sons. These mothers were transferred to the Old Seraglio, where they lived in strict seclusion. Their lives there were quiet, restrained, and removed from public affairs. They were not permitted to leave or remarry. This confinement usually lasted for the rest of their lives.
There was only one exception to this rule. If a son of one of these women later succeeded to the throne, especially after the death of a first heir, he could release his mother from her confinement. In such cases, she would return to public life and share in her son’s power, honor, and prosperity. Until that moment, however, she remained isolated and forgotten by the world Customized Tours Istanbul.
The Agiam-Oglans
Until now, we have spoken of the Ichoglans, or pages, as well as mutes, dwarfs, eunuchs, and the women of the Seraglio. It is now necessary to describe another group of servants known as the Agiam-Oglans. These individuals held lower positions and were responsible for the more laborious and humble duties within the palace.
The Agiam-Oglans were usually captives taken during war or purchased from Tartar traders. Most commonly, they were Christian boys taken from their families at the age of ten or twelve. Those who showed physical strength rather than intellectual promise were chosen for hard labor and domestic service.
Duties and Occupations of the Agiam-Oglans
The Agiam-Oglans were divided into various roles, each essential to the daily functioning of the Seraglio:
Porters, who carried heavy loads.
Bostanjis, or gardeners, who maintained the palace grounds.
Baltagis, also called hatchet-men, responsible for cutting and carrying wood.
Aşçılar, or cooks, along with all kitchen staff.
Peyks and Solaks, who served as runners and guards.
Butchers, who prepared meat for the court.
Helvacıs, or confectioners, who made sweets and preserves.
Hospital attendants, who cared for sick pages.
In addition to these roles, there were many others assigned to basic and demanding tasks. Though their status was low, their labor supported the entire structure of palace life.
Order, Labor, and Discipline
The Agiam-Oglans lived under strict discipline and obedience. Their lives were shaped by work, control, and service, reflecting the rigid hierarchy of the Ottoman court. Every role, no matter how humble, was carefully organized to maintain order within the Seraglio.