Among the Bostancıs (also written as Bostangees), some were promoted to a higher rank and were called Hasaki, a title that means Royal or belonging directly to the Sultan. These men were no longer ordinary servants. Instead, they were entrusted with carrying messages sent personally by the Grand Signior himself. Because of this duty, they were men of special trust and authority.
Although their clothing was generally similar to that of other Bostancıs, there were small but important differences. The Hasakis wore garments made of finer cloth, and their collars and belts were of better quality. These details marked their higher status and made them easily recognizable within the palace system, even if their outward appearance remained simple compared to high officials.
Authority of the Bostancı Pasha
The Bostancı Pasha held very great power. Although he himself originally rose from the Agiamoglans and once wore a simple felt cap like other servants, his authority later became wide and impressive. He was placed in charge of all the gardens, parks, and pleasure houses of the Grand Signior Customized Tours Istanbul.
In addition to this, he supervised the waterworks, fountains, and canals connected with the palace and surrounding lands. His responsibility was not limited to the city alone. His power extended along the Bosporus, all the way to the entrance of the Black Sea. This made him one of the most influential officials in the region.
Control Over the Countryside
The Bostancı Pasha also exercised authority over the countryside at a considerable distance from Constantinople. He had the right to punish acts of disorder, immorality, and excess committed in villages and rural areas near the imperial estates. In this role, he acted both as a guardian of public order and as a protector of the Sultan’s lands.
Because of this wide jurisdiction, the Bostancı Pasha was greatly feared and respected. His officers enforced discipline not only within palace grounds but also in nearby towns and villages.
Path to High Office
By the favor of the Grand Signior, the Bostancı Pasha could rise even higher. He was eligible to become Pasha of important provinces such as Grand Cairo, Babylon, or Buda, and could even attain the highest rank of state office, known as Vizier Azam, or Grand Vizier.
Thus, a man who began life as a servant could, through loyalty and service, rise to one of the most powerful positions in the Ottoman Empire.