The Royal Mosques of Constantinople
The royal mosques of Constantinople are among the most famous and magnificent religious buildings in the empire. Some of the […]
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Background A Time of Religious Change
In the early period of Islam, which the writer calls “Mahometanism,” the religion was still new and not yet strong.
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 Morning After the Wedding
Early in the morning, the bridegroom was called by his friends to go to the bath. This was part of
Moldavia and Its Early Submission
Moldavia, which the Turks called “Eugdan,” first became a tributary state under Sultan Mehmed the Great. At that time, the
The Danger and Glory of the Highest Office
The office of the Prime Vizier was not only the highest position of duty and trust in the empire, but
Age and Readiness for High Office
Before ending this chapter, it is important to note that no one was promoted from the Seraglio without special favor
Order Restored Inside the Seraglio
Inside the Seraglio, everything was now brought into good order. After the morning prayers were finished, the Baltagees—a special guard
Land Ownership under the Grand Signior
The Supreme Owner of the Land All lands within the empire remain under the sole authority and gift of the
Limited Role of Historical Painting
Historical painting has played only a small role in Bulgarian art. After the early and specialized efforts of Nicolas Pavlovitch,