The Sultan’s Throne
The throne of the Grand Sultan was raised slightly above the floor and supported by four pillars covered in gold. […]
The Ambassador’s Entrance
When the ambassador approached the Sultan, he was brought to a large gate near the audience chamber. The porch was
Escort and Presentation of Ambassadors
After the banquet, the ambassador was guided by the Chaostsbaǰǰe, the chief of the palace attendants, along with some of
Ambassadors from Distant Lands
Ambassadors from distant countries, whose main goal was to promote trade and commerce—such as those from England, France, and the
The Importance of Diplomacy
No nation in the world, however different or “barbarous” it might seem, ever ignored the role of ambassadors. Diplomacy has
Christian Soldiers under Ottoman Rule
In regions under the control of the Ottoman Empire, Christian subjects often served in the military under their local princes,
The Influence of Turkish Fashion
A wise observer noted how Greek and Armenian Christians often imitate Turkish clothing and customs. They try to look as
The Influence of Fashion and Appearance
One of the main reasons ordinary people were persuaded to become Turks was the attraction of outward appearances. People are
The Role of Slaves in the Ottoman Empire
Every day, ships arrived from the Black Sea carrying captives, as we mentioned earlier. Considering the effects of the plague
The Slave Trade in Constantinople
It was common to see ships, called Sayres or Turkish vessels, passing through the Bosphorus, carrying Christian captives of all