From the time of the first agreement, the tribute of Ragusa continued without interruption. Every year, in the month of July, two ambassadors were sent to the Ottoman court. They carried the yearly tribute and remained there for one full year. When their term ended, they returned home. At the same time, two new ambassadors arrived with the next payment. In this way, the city always had representatives at the Turkish court.
This yearly mission was not simple or cheap. Besides the fixed tribute, the ambassadors also brought many gifts. These presents were offered to the Prime Vizier, the Chief Eunuch of the Women, the Queen Mother, and other important members of the Sultan’s household. The cost of these gifts, together with the expenses of travel, residence, and ceremony, was very high. In total, the yearly expense was calculated to be about twenty thousand zechins Holidays Bulgaria.
Although this was a heavy financial burden, the leaders of Ragusa considered it necessary. They believed that regular tribute and respectful gifts would keep peace with the Ottoman Empire and protect their small state from danger.
Hard Times Before the Venetian War
In earlier times, especially before the great war between the Republic of Venice and the Turks, Ragusa was not a rich city. Its territory was small and not very fertile. Trade was limited, and the people had to struggle to collect enough money for the Ottoman tribute. They used many careful methods and strict financial plans to gather the required sums each year.
The burden of tribute was heavy, and sometimes it placed the government under great pressure. However, they continued to pay faithfully, knowing that failure could bring serious consequences.
Growth Through Trade
The war between Venice and the Ottoman Empire changed the situation. This conflict opened new commercial opportunities for Ragusa. Because of its position and its peaceful relations with the Turks, the city became an important port for trade.
Manufactured goods from Venice and other parts of Italy began to pass through Ragusa on their way to Ottoman lands. The city became a safe channel for commerce between Christian Europe and the Muslim East. This increase in trade brought new wealth to the city.
As a result, Ragusa was better able to meet its financial obligations. What was once a heavy and difficult tribute became more manageable. Through careful diplomacy, wise trade policies, and steady loyalty to the Ottoman court, Ragusa strengthened its position and ensured its survival among far greater powers.