“ottoman”

The Friday procession was a sign that the ruler was alive and that the order was still in place.

Famous Turkish businessman Vehbi Koç’s statement, “The Turks went to the military. Non-Muslims did not serve in the military. They made great fortunes,” is widely quoted. But was this really the case?

A Jewish dentist named Sami Günzberg seized the exiled Ottoman dynasty’s properties through various means during the Republican era. In fact, people used to say, “Sami Günzberg is the sole heir of Abdulhamid.”

There is no other dynasty in the world, apart from the Ottomans, whose rulers were not only statesmen, soldiers, and sportsmen but also highly skilled artists, poets, calligraphers, and scholars.

The Turks were the first to recognize the mentally ill, who were burned alive in Europe for being "possessed by the devil," as patients and to treat them humanely. They pioneered treatments using water, birdsong, melodies, and occupational activities.

Various nations live within empires. Many languages are spoken. The ruler assumes the position of a father to all and strives to maintain harmony. Everyone lives within their own sphere, preserving their own culture.

For some time now, newspapers have been claiming that the caliphate will be reinstated and that the legislation is suitable for this.

The ancient friend and ally France has also been a source of inspiration for the reforms carried out in Türkiye for the past two centuries. However, how good of an ally and how proper of an inspiration it was is debatable.

It is widely believed among the public that some cities were blacklisted and punished by not receiving investments because they either rebelled against or showed defiance to the central government. The following are some facts about the cities believed to have been punished.

The Ankara government had already functioned as a republic, at least since the abolition of the sultanate. So, what does the proclamation of the Republic on October 29, 1923, signify?

Thousands of Ottoman prisoners in captivity camps during the First World War suffered greatly, even under good conditions, due to homesickness, losing both their mental and physical health.

Hundreds of thousands of young men who participated in the First World War lost their lives either on the battlefield or in prisoner camps; those who survived lived out their lives as walking dead due to the trauma they endured.

One of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the world, Damascus was once famous for its fabrics and sweets. The sweets of Damascus and the sight of a fallah’s (peasant) face were worth seeing.

The Kadızadeli (Qadizadali) movement, initiated by a few anti-Sufi preachers, resulted in harassment of dervish lodges and incitement of public rebellion. The government responded harshly.

The Saudi emirs of the Salafi sect, while under Ottoman rule as the district governors of Riyadh, took advantage of the power vacuum that emerged after 1918 and, with British support, gained control over the Hejaz and Arabia. Here is the story of this eccentric family...

At one time, certain intellectuals coined the term "Ottoman Feudalism" to promote socialist ideology and ostensibly explain Turkish realities. Over time, they themselves came to believe in it.

The Ottoman land was once a sanctuary for those oppressed because of their beliefs, ethnicity, or traditions.

The caliphate was one of the oldest institutions in world history. Its role as an obstacle to imperialism paved the way for its downfall. On March 3, 1924, it was buried in history after 13 centuries…

In Ottoman society, there were those who appeared to be Muslim but secretly believed in other religions. Contrary to common belief, the reason for this was not oppression. Moreover, in the 19th century, this gave foreigners an opportunity to exploit.

The senseless War of '93 with the Russians led to disastrous consequences. The war was caused by 30 years of bureaucratic dominance, and the empire began to unravel.

It is almost impossible to know whether the Ottoman sultans drank alcohol. This is because sultans, including their families, would not eat with anyone. In fact, there is a provision about this in the "Qanunname of Sultan Fatih" (Code of Mehmed II).

İngiltere’nin Ortadoğu politikası, ezcümle Türklerle siyasi münasebeti hep bir kararda olmamıştır. Zaman ve zemine göre değişen ve çeşitlenen bir seyir takip etmiştir.

The members of the Ottoman dynasty today understood very well where they lived and the demands of the time. They knew exactly what to do and say.

The Ottomans regarded justice as an indispensable element of the state. One of the most famous Ottoman rulers was called "Kanuni" (the Lawgiver). His relief has been hanging in the U.S. Capitol for years.

Before their exile, the Ottoman dynasty was forced to sell or entrust their belongings at dirt cheap prices within three days. During this time, unpleasant incidents also took place. For example, the house of Shahzade (Prince) Seyfeddin Efendi was to be plundered by the public under police supervision...

The court dwarfs, with their clever witticisms, did something that not everyone could do; they could criticize the ruler when necessary, and this was tolerated.

Even prophets have often been tested with their children. There are numerous examples in the Quran that shed light on the relationship between fathers and sons from different perspectives.

Once numbering in the hundreds of thousands, Muslims in Andalusia, Sicily, and Russia were either expelled, killed, or forcibly baptized in a short period.

Is it possible to believe that marriages and divorces were not recorded in a vast empire?

The Karbala Incident, in which Husayn ibn Ali was martyred, is a tragic event that pains the hearts of all Muslims. As the poet said, "Every place is Karbala for us; every day is Ashura for us."

Many historians confess that the Turks have made the most sincere contributions to Islam after the Companions (Sahaba) of the Prophet. The fact that Islam has survived through many misfortunes and still exists today is proof of this.

The words of a businessman about not going to bed without an entari (jallabia) surprised many people. However, there was a time when no one, summer or winter, went without wearing an entari.

One of the factors that kept the Ottomans in power across three continents for six centuries was their fast and organized communication system.

During the World War, England promised the Arab lands to various individuals. When the war ended, chaos erupted.

Executioner work was a job requiring mastery. It was expected to be done without causing a commotion and without giving the convict too much pain.

Every nation considers nationalism a unique privilege for itself and an independent homeland its right. However, it often deems this excessive for others.

The Middle Ages was not a dark age as it is commonly believed, especially not for Muslims. Universities were established during this era, and later spread to the entire world through Muslims. The same applies to paper. (Interview)

The Hijri calendar is based on the movements of the Moon. It is more accurate and precise than the solar calendar. Therefore, it is highly suitable for travelers and sailors.

The reason for the establishment of the Anglophile Society named Friends of England Association (İngiliz Muhibleri Cemiyeti), as its name suggests, was to appear favorable to England, the superpower of the world at that time, and to overcome the disastrous days through dialogue.

In the "Turkey's top 10 enemies" survey, Greece ranks first, with England not even making the list. Yet, Greece embarked on its invasion adventure, which it called the Asia Minor (Anatolia) Catastrophe, due to a British scheme.

Hijab existed in almost all religions and societies. Modernity has taken away from life.

After the French Revolution, history has always been written by republicans. Therefore, in novels, movies, and even fairy tales, kings are cruel; nobles are evil.

Given that Islamic law consists of different legal interpretations (ijtihads), which one will be relied upon in court?

It is said that during the conquest of Istanbul, soldiers were given permission to plunder, and the city was plundered for 3 days.

Sultan Abdulhamid II, upon learning that a play against Islam would be performed in Paris, immediately attempted to prevent it through the Embassy in Paris.

Iranian historian of science, Shia Professor Seyyed Hossein Nasr says: "Umayyad caliphs should not be equated with modern tyrants in Muslim countries. While these [modern tyrants] strive to destroy religion itself, Islam was being implemented during the Umayyad period."

Some groups occasionally like to discuss deviations in Ottoman society. Mentioning something in the sources does not indicate its prevalence; it may indicate the opposite.

Laicism is neither a prerequisite for democracy nor for human rights. Indeed, there are countries like the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Sweden where democracy and human rights function excellently without being laical.

There are still countries in the world where the traditions of shining monarchies prevail. These countries are among the most stable, and their democracies function most efficiently.

"Calling someone in the Ottoman Empire a republican was like calling them an infidel at that time, akin to calling them a communist today." (Falih Rıfkı)

As New Year approaches, the issue becomes relevant once again. There's a saying, "The crow envied the partridge, couldn't imitate it, and even forgot its own way of walking." Where does the limit of trying to be like someone else begin and end?

Many elites in the 19th century believed that industry was unnecessary, even wasteful. However, the Ottoman government did not heed this belief.

The sufferings of the Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in 1915 have become a worldwide propaganda issue, due to a powerful diaspora.

The Ottoman dynasty led a life deeply connected to religion and traditions within the seriousness of a madrasa and the solemnity of a Sufi lodge. In history, no other Muslim dynasty can be compared to the Ottoman palace in this regard.

Many of the anecdotes attributed to Nasreddin Hodja today do not belong to him, and his historical identity is shrouded in shadows.

Influenced by fascist ideas in Europe, Turkism began to be understood not as nationalism but as racism.

Members of the Ottoman dynasty who were sent into exile quickly fell into great hardship. Those who sought to extend a helping hand to them encountered another obstacle.

In the past, there were designated sections for women on trams, ferries, in theaters, and tea gardens. Men were not allowed to step into these areas.

Turkey is one of the nation-states, some small and some large, established on the remnants of the empire with the remaining materials. The nation-state and the empire belong to very different worlds.

Starting from the year 1930, it was announced that letters from abroad with "Constantinople" written as the city name would be returned.

The first Qibla of Islam, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, is also considered the third holiest place of worship by Muslims. The Dome of the Rock, with its gleaming golden dome, remains a symbol of Jerusalem even today.

Foreign travelers who have never set foot in the Ottoman lands filled their books with fictitious punishments and torture descriptions, solely to fuel the fear of Turks.

Islam has made polygamy conditional on justice, and due to the scarcity of 'just men' who could fulfill this condition, it has recommended contentment with one wife.

It has been more than a century since they took power. They became the gravediggers of a vast empire. Nevertheless, their traces and voices have not diminished. An epic should be written about this success.

Europeans became acquainted with the East through the Crusades. They not only discovered its treasures but also its culture and civilization. Inspired by this, they illuminated the Middle Ages. What happened next?

The Paulician movement, which emerged in Anatolia in the 7th century and is considered a precursor to Protestantism, played a significant role in the spread of Islam in Anatolia and the Balkans.

The use of the terms ‘Islam and Democracy' or ‘Ottoman and Democracy' together is a surprise for most people, but in reality, the Ottomans encounter with democracy dates back to the 1840s, long before its European counterparts

One of the two sources of inspiration that nourished Muslim Turkish society, the tekkes (Sufi lodges), were closed in the modern era, thereby facilitating the implementation of Westernization programs.

During the reign of Sultan Selim I, the Kurds voluntarily chose Ottoman citizenship to avoid being under the pressure of the Safavid rule. After this, a period of peace and stability, lasting for centuries, began in the region.

The Ottomans used local languages in official correspondence as well. Laws, state yearbooks, and official newspapers were printed in multiple languages.

Imam Al-Sharani praises the Ottoman sultans for their commitment to religion and justice, stating, "Today, the protectors of the faith and the ones who uphold the honor of Islam are none other than the Ottoman family and their soldiers."

The events taking place in India, where mosques are being violated and Muslims are being harassed, have been overshadowed by the ongoing pandemic. One of the main reasons for this is the policy of "Divide and Rule" followed by Britain in the past, as well as the involvement of certain "nationalist heroes"(!).

Who are the Bagratunis, who are said to have carried out secret activities and served Greater Israel?

Sharia law divides the world into two domains as Dar al-Harb and Dar al-Islam. The judgment of each is different. The rules and conditions for each are different.

The Battle of Preveza was won against a three times stronger enemy, as the range of the Ottoman artillery was greater than the range of the enemy artillery.

In every age and everywhere, people have wondered about the age of the earth and when the Doomsday is due, and they have made calculations about it.

Why did the Islamic world lose its scientific dominance to Europe? What were the reasons for this decline?

Sürgüne gönderilen Osmanlı hanedanının eline bir yıllık pasaport verilmişti. Bir sene sonra bulundukları ülkelerde esir pozisyonuna düştüler!..

According to an old adage "The shoemaker's son always goes barefoot", the education of the princes (şehzades) in the Seljuks and Ottomans was entrusted to people who were older, cultured and knew the rules of good manners.

One of the last sheikh al-Islams of the Ottoman Empire Sabri Efendi said, “Abduh could not bring the disbelievers even one step closer to religion, but he brought most of the students of Al-Azhar (University) closer to being disbelievers”

Throughout history, people have used their knowledge of attire and facial expressions to choose rulers, commanders, officers, servants and even spouses

In Ottoman society, a solution was sought and found for the credit needs of the people: Cash waqfs.

Lately, there have been some outrageous claims that the Ottoman Empire was originally Shia; however after Selim I (Yavuz Sultan Selim) took the caliphate, the empire embraced Sunnism zealously for political reasons.

Mustafa Sabri Efendi left the scholars of his time astonished with the Arabic works he wrote in Egypt. He was recognized for his superior knowledge and the might of his pen. He dedicated his life to the struggle for the values ​​he believed in.

The unfortunate Sultan Vahideddin became the ruler who lost the most in the First World War, and 1000 years of tradition was buried with him

Sultan Mehmed V was a disaster era sultan and although he was not primarily responsible for the disintegration of the country, he was also never able to fulfill the duties of his office properly

Sultan Abdülhamid tread a fine line in politics, knowing what he could do and what he could not do. In this way, many political dangers were eliminated with small concessions

Sultan Murad V, who was enthroned as a result of a civil and military coup, was the shortest reigning Ottoman sultan

Those who deposed Sultan Abdülaziz in 1876 tried to persuade the public with propaganda, but the people always expressed their love for the oppressed sultan with their laments

There were very important innovations during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid. He ruled in a democratic manner, without interfering with the government, like the European monarchs of today

Sultan Mahmud II, who ascended the throne in the most depressing time of the Ottoman Empire, dealt with both wars and rebellions and worked diligently on reforms to delay the dissolution of the state

One of the most unfortunate rulers in Ottoman history, Sultan Mustafa IV could never fully establish his authority due to endless political turmoil

Influenced by his father, Sultan Selim III acquired a zeal for reform and undertook a program of transformation to eliminate the reasons for defeat to prevent the dissolution of the country but he lost his throne before he could reap the fruits of his efforts

His death from sorrow and grief following the fall of a castle in Ukraine and the persecution of his people shows the character of Sultan Abdülhamid I amid a long history filled with statespeople who would not lift a finger in the face of the loss of whole countries and disasters plaguing millions

Upon the bad news from the Russian front, Sultan Mustafa III died of a stroke due to sadness. After this war in which Crimea was lost, the Ottoman Empire was no longer the most powerful state in the world

Sultan Osman III would often dress as a commoner and wander among the public since the time of his princedom to talk to the people, check in on them and gather their ideas

The 35-year reign of Sultan Mahmud I is regarded as being among the brightest days of the Ottoman Empire, similar to a sunny summer day during autumn

Sultan Ahmed III is known as the ruler of the Tulip Era. There was great interest in tulips during this period of wealth and peace

Witnessing wars and going on expeditions during his childhood and youth, Sultan Mustafa II was the last sultan to go on a campaign with his army

After he ascended the throne with prayers, Sultan Ahmed II devoted most of his attention to wars as well as issues related to foreign policy, government and the economy

Sultan Suleiman II was able to strengthen the Ottoman Empire through internal reforms and reconquests of territory despite his short reign

Famous for his courage, Sultan Mehmed IV astonished his entourage as he jumped with his horse between two rocks that overlooked a chasm of 2,918 meters at the top of Mount Olympus in Greece

Sultan Ibrahim's reign saw very cold periods, with the Golden Horn and even the Bosporus freezing at times. The sultan was held responsible for famines in Istanbul, which ultimately brought about his end

The reign of Sultan Murad IV, known as the conqueror of Baghdad, is notable for halting the prevailing lawlessness and rebelliousness while restoring the authority of the state

Sultan Osman II, who assumed the throne in a turbulent time for the country, had genius and many projects on his mind. However, he was inexperienced due to his age, which turned into his calamity

Sultan Mustafa I took the Ottoman throne twice after his brother diverged from ascension traditions, ruling from November 1617 to February 1618, then again from May 1622 to September 1623

Sultan Ahmed I’s reign is often misevaluated as dim due to the turbulent era in which he ruled, plagued by wars and rebellions, all while lacking capable aides.

It is important to know the time for worship, which is why Muslims have always given special importance to the clock. Watchmaking is therefore an auspicious profession and erecting a clock tower was historically seen as a good deed

Sultan Mehmed III, who was the last prince to be sent to the governorship and ascended to the throne in the Ottoman Empire, conquered Eger and won't the Battle of Keresztes

Preveze Deniz Muharebesi, üç misli güçlü düşmana karşı, Osmanlı toplarının menzilinin, düşman toplarının menzilinden daha fazla olması sebebiyle kazanılmıştı.

Although it is said that Sultan Murad III was under the influence of the women in his harem and his courtiers, his reign, which saw lengthy wars against Iran, was a glorious period. Social and economic deterioration within the Ottoman state started after the death of the tender-hearted ruler

The sultanate of Palestine was offered to Şehzade (prince) Mahmud Şevket Efendi, the grandson of Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz. Into whose hands did Palestine, which once did not consent to an Ottoman prince, fall into?

The children of great people are often destined to remain in their father's shadow, no matter how many virtues they have. Despite all his virtues, Sultan Selim II likewise remained in the shadow of his father, Sultan Suleiman I, who was a magnificent ruler

Flowers are exceptional children of nature. They are perhaps the most pleasing for the eye and the soul due to their harmonious shapes, beautiful colors and unique scents.

The 10th and longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire ruled over a huge empire with his just administration, military and diplomatic genius for 46 years

Despite his short time on the throne, the reign of Sultan Selim, also known as Selim the Resolute, is notable for the enormous expansion of the Ottoman Empire, particularly the conquest of the entire Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt

Although the reign of Sultan Bayezid II, the eldest son and successor of Mehmed the Conqueror, was stable in terms of military activities, it was a time of renewal and scientific, economic and administrative developments for future conquests

There were many female service providers in the Ottoman palace, and the most proficient would become the spouses of the sultans

Sultan Mehmed II's conquest of Istanbul earned him the immortal title of 'conqueror.' Following his triumph, the Ottoman sultan transformed Istanbul into the biggest European city of the time, reviving it through reconstruction

Although he willingly abdicated the throne in 1444, Sultan Murad II was a successful sovereign who expanded Ottoman cities considerably, helping the country prosper with important developments

As he saved the Ottoman Empire from a great depression, Sultan Mehmed I is compared by historians to the Prophet Noah, who saved believers with his ark

In the Ottoman Empire, anyone with complaints against civil servants could submit a petition to the sultan as he went to the mosque for attending Friday prayers. This was regarded as the last resort

While the life of Sultan Bayezid I, the fourth ruler of the Ottoman throne, burned brightly, it had a bitter end

The relations between Britain and the Turks started late. However, the bilateral ties have left their mark on recent history

While his predecessor, Osman and Orhan ghazis, had gathered a nation and created a state, Sultan Murad I improved his lands, making a prosperous country from it for all citizens

The Taj Mahal, chosen as one of the 'Seven Wonders of the New World,' is the fruit of a legendary love story. Countless people from all over the world visit this unique work built by Muslim Turks in India, but most are unaware of its history

As Orhan Ghazi's actions during his reign showed his great military and administrative abilities, some historians describe him as the true founder of the Ottoman Empire

The Rothschild family, which issued loans to major governments and dominated the world, also wholeheartedly supported the dream of establishing a Jewish homeland in Palestine

Osman, a just and energetic tribal leader and military commander, lent his name for his small realm that went on to dominate world affairs for nearly seven centuries

French engineer Francois Baron de Tott once asked Ottoman madrassa professors what the sum of the angles of a triangle amounted to, receiving the answer 'it depends on the triangle' from one. He then clung to this response thinking he had the opportunity to humiliate the Turks

The Ottomans, who came to Anatolia with a tribe of 400 tents from Turkistan, established Anatolian unity within a century and became the direct successors of the Seljuks. Over time, they built an empire that ruled over three continents

XIX. asır elitleri arasında sanayinin lüzumsuz, hatta israf olduğuna inanan çoktu. Ancak Osmanlı hükümeti buna kulak asmadı.

When Aisha died, she could not be buried in the Prophet's tomb. Because there was a single burial place left in the room. This place is reserved for another person. Who?

The measure of fairness of each legal system is determined in its own concept. Taken into consideration are things such as whether the judges apply the rules of law, whether they are impartial and whether they can be influenced by bribes

Büyük devletlere borç verip dünya üzerinde hâkimiyet kuran Rothschild ailesi, Filistin’de bir Yahudi yurdu kurulması idealini de yürekten desteklemiştir.

Kimsenin çözemediği sessiz filmi bazı aklı evveller çözmüş; Padişah’a İngilizlere İstanbul’un olmayan anahtarını verdirtmiştir.

Osmanlı Devleti’nin başta Şii olduğu; Yavuz Sultan Selim’in halifeliği almasından sonra siyaset icabı koyu bir Sünniliğe büründüğüne dair bazı müfrit sözler işitiliyor.

"The first purpose of the hajj is to fulfill Allah's will," Islamic law professor Ekrem Buğra Ekinci told the Daily Sabah.

This paper focuses on fratricide in the Ottoman Empire from the Islamic/ Ottoman Law viewpoint.

During the Ottoman Era, Mawlid al-Nabi used to be celebrated with magnificent grandiose ceremonies as it was a public holiday.

After World War II, the United States began to show close interest in Turkey, seeing it as a safety valve against communism and the Soviet Union. However, this judgement has never seen any bearing.

Hejaz railway atau jalur kereta api Hijaz, merupakan mega proyek Ottoman paling cemerlang di masa Sultan Abdul Hamid II.

Hejaz railway atau jalur kereta api Hijaz, merupakan mega proyek Ottoman paling cemerlang di masa Sultan Abdul Hamid II.

Osmanlı ordusunun bozulmasından sonra Medine Muhafızı Fahreddin Paşa, Mescid-i Nebi'deki bazı kıymetli eşyaları da Hicaz’dan gelen son trenle İstanbul’a gönderdi.

U.S. President Trump's announcement that the U.S. will move its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem has stirred the pot and the motives of this eccentric president, who falls on the world's agenda with every action he takes, are unclear

Cats are known to be ungrateful while dogs are renowned for their loyalty. However, this is not the case in Islamic-Turkish culture, where cats and dogs held a place completely different

The roots of banking go back to 13th-century Italy, but truely flourished during and after the Industrial Revolution, whose effects also brought the banking system to the Ottoman Empire

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said the range of Islamic law implementation will be limited in Greece, but as international agreements require, the Muslim minority in Greece has the right to demand the implementation of legal principles of their religion

Bread has been one of the basic staple foods since it was first invented, but people do not appreciate bread when it is abundant and only value it when it is scarce

Ottoman sultans had always been in the service of the holy lands of Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem even before they became caliphs, and their exquisite work there is proof that they were true servants of Islam

People living in the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over 22 million square kilometers, communicated through a complex postal system over long distances

Liberal principles prevailed in Ottoman economic life, but it was not a loose liberalism, as social justice was essential in the distribution of the empire's income

Throughout its history, the Ottoman Empire was a place where Jews could live without fear of persecution, a comfort denied to them in most of Europe in the 19th century

Trading sugar made so much money that people started to call it ‘white gold.' The increase in sugar production was also one of the main drivers of the slave trade

Some people who saw the Ottoman's brilliant role and reputation Islamic history claimed to be related to the Ottoman dynasty, and they succeeded in deceiving the simple-minded with these false claims, and some of these people were from European dynasties such as the Romanovs and Habsburgs

Workers' rights in the Ottoman Empire were always protected under the guidance of Islam, which is a religion that honors honest labor. Although there were setbacks, labor rights were always present in the empire which was not an industrialized state

Harems and eunuchs are among the most eccentric issues of old oriental life. The discipline of the harem, where it was impossible to come across even a male fly, was handled by the eunuchs. Thanks to them, the palace didn't witness a single scandal in six centuries.

As the capital city of the empire, Istanbul was administered under strict rules and travel to the city was regulated. Different permits would be issued depending on whether you wanted to visit and or to settle down. The city population was also strictly maintained in order to avoid food shortages and keep the peace

The ritual of sacrifice is observed by many traditions and religions, and, Turkic people, even before accepting Islam as their religion, are known to have practiced this tradition and continue to follow it during Eid al-Adha

The administrations of every single province in the Ottoman Empire differed in their features, which allowed the large, contiguous empire that was home to people of various origins and religions to sustain itself for centuries

In modern-day Turkey, mute officials serve in Parliament and in the Cabinet, and the reason for this is the concern for privacy about state affairs, which has a history dating back to the Ottoman era

Honey is one of the oldest foods known to man, but this natural treat is much more than just a sweetener, as honey also works as an effective cure for ailments and a natural shield against infection

Jerusalem, founded by David 3,000 years ago, is considered a sacred city by the three Abrahamic religions, but the recent conflicts between Palestinians and Israelis over Al-Aqsa have their roots in the 1940s

Circumcision is an age-old tradition and, according to archaeological findings on ancient mummies and papyri, the practice existed in ancient Egypt, as well. Christopher Columbus was shocked to find Native Americans were circumcised. Even in today's world, circumcision can be a symbol of class, status and a worldwide topic for debate

The population of Istanbul, which was not even 50,000 when the Ottomans conquered it, grew slowly due to migration from Anatolia. Through construction and settlement, the Ottomans made their mark on the city, making it the dream city of the empire

July 15, 2017 is the first anniversary of the coup attempt perpetrated by the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ) and a secret group in the military. Fortunately, contrary to the previous coups, the attempt failed thanks to the people's tenacious protection of democracy

The supporters of the tsar fleeing the Bolsheviks took refuge in Istanbul under great difficulties. Among them were people of all stripes, including generals, famous artists, professors and businessmen

Everyone says the Muslim holidays they experienced in their childhood were better than they are now. In the past, the desserts were sweeter, the places they traveled were more beautiful, people were warmer, and life was like a feast. Of course, some parts of this is true even though they might seem like a fairy tale to most

This is the story of Qatar, a country that has striven to become a powerful political actor in the Middle East since it was a district of the Ottoman Empire over 100 years ago

The companions of Prophet Muhammad served in transferring the Islamic holy book to future generations. The Quran was compiled into a book in the time of the first caliph, Abu Bakr

In the past when political opposition and the press were nonexistent, Ottoman scholars were the ones who warns the administration of issues when they arose, while poets and artists created a culture of criticism by employing their sharp tongues and wit

'Nutuk' (The Great Speech), which is regarded as one of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's and defense for defining moments reforms, begins with the line, 'I landed in Samsun on May 19, 1919,' what is considered the beginning of the Ankara movement in the official schematic of revolution history

Tradesmen held an important position in Ottoman society. Together with merchants, they formed a central group that led and prevented changes in political and social life

Hıdırellez was once the most lively and fun days of the year, providing children with memories that lasted a lifetime

A significant number of Jews, most of whom had escaped Spanish persecution in 1492, lived in the Ottoman lands. They spoke a mixed language of Hebrew and Spanish, called Ladino and mostly lived in Thessaloniki, Izmir and Istanbul

It may be surprising to see the star and crescent on the emblem of Irish football club Drogheda, but this emblem has a story dating back to the Irish famine of 1847

The great colonial empire established by the Netherlands and the policy it practiced in the lands, which measure 40 times larger than its own, overshadowed its humanist history. The rising trend of fascism in the country is being followed with astonishment and concern

Calligraphy, the art of writing, was more than just art that decorated the walls during the Ottoman times. The teachings and the names written in calligraphy were believed to protect the house

A few centuries ago, protecting roads in Anatolia was honorable work for its people, which led to the establishment of a primitive accident insurance system

Although it is commonly believed that the printing press is Johann Gutenberg's invention, Buddhists and Muslims had been using the magic of the printing press for centuries. The Ottoman's late transition to the printing press, on the other hand, is directly related to the magnificent work of calligraphists and aesthetic pleasure

In the late 1800s, the Zionist movement called for a Jewish state to be established in Palestine. Sultan Abdülhamid II took a series of precautions to reverse the plan. However, when the sultan was dethroned and the Young Turks took charge, the movement was able to spread in the region

The caliphate was one of the oldest Islamic institutions in the history. The Ottoman caliphate was the last Sunni caliphate of the late medieval and early modern era that lasted 13 centuries and was abolished in 1924

Ottoman Armenians distinguished themselves in sports during the early 20th century with successful sportsmen representing the empire at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics

After the Ottoman Empire lost its territory in Rumelia, now referred to as the Balkans, Turks living there migrated to Anatolia over times. However, Turkish existence in Rumelia dates back, even before the arrival of the Ottomans

The grandchildren of Ottoman Sultan Abdülhamid II's claim on the properties owned by the late sultan have been the subject of an ongoing debate. In the early 20th century, the sultan's personal treasury was seized, and since then the royal members have sought the return of their ancestor's personal properties, which has been denied

Until the early 16th century, Egypt was ruled by the Mamluk Sultanate and it became an Ottoman province in 1517. Under Ottoman rule, Muhammad Ali Pasha was the most influential name in Egypt, and his family ruled the region for more than a century

Tobacco, an important crop in Turkish agriculture, was introduced to the Ottoman Empire by European merchants in the late 16th century. Tobacco consumption became widespread in a short period of time, but there were several attempts to ban smoking for various reasons

Reunification talks on Cyprus, a divided island in the Mediterranean Sea, are back on the table with Turkey, the U.K. and Greece. Through the ages, this small island has remained at a critical junction with long-term Turkish influence

The historic graveyards containing the remains of the sons of the 34th Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II are on the verge of being lost for ever.

Osman Bayezid Osmanoğlu, the 44th head of the Ottoman family, died at the age of 92 last Friday in New York. A humble and intellectual person, he was born in exile but used to visit Istanbul in his later life

The new heir to the throne of the scattered Ottoman dynasty, which once ruled the strongest empire in the world, has witnessed the horrors of the Syrian civil war since 2011 in his native Damascus.

Dozens of clock towers adorned Ottoman cities around the empire for centuries. They have remained a symbol of Ottoman modernization. Many of them were built during the late Ottoman period

Türkistan’dan dört yüz çadırlık bir aşiretle Anadolu’ya gelen Osmanlılar, bir asır içinde Anadolu birliğini kurarak, Selçukluların tam halefi oldular. Zamanla üç kıtaya hükmeden bir imparatorluk kurdular.

Damage to Syria's cultural heritage has been widely reported since the outbreak of the war. With UNESCO World Heritage sites, Aleppo has lost its great architectural beauty, some of which had been built by court architect Mimar Sinan during the Ottoman period

In the Ottoman Empire, rowing races on the Bosporus, mainly on the Golden Horn, were very popular with a history going back to the 16th century. The Moda Bay in Istanbul later became a hot spot for rowing where professional teams fiercely competed. The teams also appeared in international games

Without any doubt, tea is a way of life for Turkish people. In the late 19th century, tea used to be a luxury commodity. It was in early 1900 that tea cultivation began in northeastern Anatolia and it quickly spread around the region, becoming a cultural beverage that is consumed any time of the day

The root of the modern-day intelligence service in Turkey dates back to the Ottoman era, most notably to the 19th century. During the reign of different emperors, the structure of the intelligence service was changed. Countless spies disguised as illusionists, beggars or dervishes were among the intelligence network of Sultan Abdülhamid II

While touring Istanbul's historic sights, encountering old fountains designed in the period's architectural style is inevitable. Fountains in Ottoman Istanbul were where the public could freely get water and perform ablution before prayers

Having been used by numerous civilizations to preserve the body after death, the technique of mummification was also practiced in Anatolia. Although different from the one in ancient Egypt, embalming was also performed on rulers in certain Anatolian civilizations

Of all the disasters that hit Ottoman cities, fire was the most destructive. City-dwellers were experienced in preventing fires as well as saving valuable property

Built upon the order of Ottoman ruler Sultan Abdulhamid II, the Hejaz Railway provided a modern means to transport pilgrims to Mecca and Medina by replacing old camel caravans as well as served to strengthen relations in the Islamic world

A very compassionate offering to feathered friends, the history of bird houses adorning mosques, inns and bridges around Turkey go back a long way. An important expression of love for animals, these birdhouses are an element of Ottoman-era architecture with their intricate designs and tiny architecture

Early in the 14th century, sports competitions in the Ottoman Empire mostly involved war games. In later centuries, football clubs were established and matches became common. In the final decades, paddling, gymnastics and fencing gained popularity at the imperial palace and schools

In 18th-century Europe, especially with the arrival of Ottoman embassies to the royal courts, Turkish fashion, also named 'Turquerie,' emerged sumptuously influencing fine arts, architecture and music

The Balyan family was one of the most well-known Armenian families during the Ottoman era. Coming from Central Anatolia, family members served as imperial architects for years and are remembered as the masterminds behind many palaces, mosques and barracks like the Dolmabahçe Mosque and the Beylerbeyi Palace

Islam is a religion that prioritizes and gives great importance to science and education. The world's first higher education institutions were established by Muslims in the Islamic world, setting examples for future universities in Europe

Although it is a lesser-known story in the Ottoman history and relatively unexamined one, the Kuleli Incident was recognized as a coup attempt to topple Sultan Abdülmecid by a secret committee including soldiers and religious men

The Alawites, also called Nusayri is a Shiite offshoot, makes up around 10 percent of Syria's population. The Assad family ruling Syria for years comes from the Alawite background. The ongoing war that has turned Syria into a firestorm also has a religious side accompanied by sectarian cleansing

In ancient times, Syria was a land of trade, culture and flourishing civilizations. Throughout the centuries, the area was under the rule of different powers from Romans to Seljuks, being home to numerous world heritage sites. This sacred land is now witnessing this century's worst conflict

Officially resolving the conflict between the Ottoman Empire and the Allies after the World War I, the Treaty of Lausanne, which marks its 93th anniversary this year, is still open for discussion as it had both pros and cons

History is full of coup attempts used by certain groups to gain power. From the late period of the Ottoman Empire to the present day, Turkey has seen successful and failed coups many times with varying results

Mankind has always found ways to record their thoughts over ages. First, they used leaves, silk and clay tablets. After the invention of paper and later its transfer to Europe through Islamic societies, not only did information become widespread but the intellectual world was given its fuel

A diverse country in North Africa, Morocco has everything to satisfy a traveler's needs from its mystical atmosphere and colorful, narrow streets to Andalusian-style mosques

Muslims around the world will celebrate Ramadan Bayram, a three-day holiday marking the end of fasting. Bayram traditions have diversified from the early days of Islam, but for all, it is a time of joy and enjoy festivities

Situated on Istanbul's Bebek coast, the current Egyptian General-Consulate building was once owned by Princess Emine Necibe, the only woman that took the title pasha during the Ottoman era. From the dynasty of Muhammad Ali of Egypt, Emine was one of the fanciest figures in the early 20th century and her memory is still alive at the mansion named after her

Prior to the population exchange between Turkey and Greece, Anatolia was home to a large Greek Orthodox community called the Karamanlides, who spoke Turkish but used the Greek alphabet to write it. Today, there are very few Karamanlides left in Anatolia

Ottoman charity showed itself throughout its history. A number of foundations, known as 'waqfs' served the public and were an important means to offer a helping hand and share with those in need

For a long time, shamans were commonly seen in a vast region from Siberia to India, Africa and the Americas. Most Turkic peoples had Shamanistic traditions and believed in the superiority of the creator called Kök Tangri, meaning Sky God

The use of money dates back thousands of years. As in other cultures, minting of coins and banknotes was a reflection of a ruler's power in Islamic societies, although their shapes and names have changed over and over again

The fez used to be common headwear in Mediterranean countries and originated from Morocco. It was a popular accessory used by Ottoman elites and soldiers that became a symbol of a common Ottoman identity in the 19th century

The Abdullah Brothers, three Ottoman Armenian brothers named Vichen, Hovsep and Kevork Abdullahyan ran a profitable studio in Istanbul as well as other locations like Cairo. In the 19th century, the brothers were named the royal photographers to the imperial family and took numerous photographs of the period's prestigious figures such as the Prince of Wales and Mark Twain

The town of Kut al-Amara in Iraq had been under siege for around five months during World War I. Without sufficient artillery, Ottoman forces encircled the town and besieged the British-Indian garrison. Although it is not very well-known, the siege was the last victory for the Ottoman army, which celebrates its 100th anniversary today

Spanning from the eighth century to the 15th century, the Islamic golden age saw many advances in science and medicine. These developments continued during the time of the Seljuks and Ottomans and its legacy is still alive. The Imperial School of Medicine was established upon the order of Sultan Mahmut II in the 19th century. The students were given a modern medical education and today it serves as a university campus that includes the faculty of medicine

'Bedesten,' a covered bazaar with thick domes, used to operate as a trade center where precious textiles and jewels were sold and was an early form of banking where locals could store their luxury goods. In Istanbul there are three bedestens, two are in the Grand Bazaar and the other is located in Galata

Perceptions of the Ottoman harem have changed over time, but contrary to the prevailing opinions that criticize it, the harem always preserved its structure as a school for jariyahs from different ethnicities and bore some similarities with elite schools for girls run in the period

The nomadic but colorful world of the Roma has always remained intriguing. In 15th century Istanbul, there were skilled Roma artists and army tradesmen who were treated well in the society. Pointing to Roma's adaptable nature, famous Ottoman-era traveler Evliya Çelebi once said: 'They celebrate Qurban Bayram with Muslims, Easter with Christians and Hanukkah with Jews'

Today marks the 105th year since the Gallipoli naval battle of World War I, which ended with a unique victory against the Allied forces. Yet the high casualties and successive battles led to the collapse of the Ottoman Empire

The tradition of living together has always been an issue in Europe and now they think what the EU is trying to figure out what it will do with millions of Muslim refugees. Some politicians even go further and trigger Islamophobia. Will this problem bring an end to the European principles that they praise?

The spring has not yet fully shown itself, but jamrah, the herald of spring, has already arrived. It is believed that jamrah brings warmth to the three aspects of nature of air, water and soil and had a deep cultural place among nomadic Turks

Throughout history, there have been very few items used for multiple purposes. Among them, handkerchiefs have an interesting story both as decoration and clothing as well a means of communication between lovers

The Karaim are a Jewish community that completely reject the Talmud oral law and only recognize the Torah. They continue their existence in different regions, including Lithuania and Turkey, and it is rumored that Istanbul's Karaköy neighborhood is named after them

The Treaty of Lausanne marked the independence of Anatolia while also sealing the fates of 150 randomly selected people who only carried out their duty to their country and sultan

The Islamic world made significant contributions in different scientific fields up until the 15th century. These contributions are inevitably seen not only in science, but also in other fields such as art, trade and politics. So what happened to make the Islamic world fall behind in science while it rose in Europe? What are the reasons behind this downward trend?

Facing the port city of Orsova in southwestern Romania, Ada Kaleh was an island, whose previous population was entirely Turkish. Conquered by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed I, the island was under Romanian rule after the World War I. The island was submerged with the construction of a dam in the early 1970s and the residents either moved to Turkey or Balkan cities

Mosul was the last city that the Ottomans lost in World War I. The city was also the main reason for a long dispute between the Turkish and British governments, which suspended the Lausanne Peace Negotiations

Snow was much more fun in the past. People used to forget everything when glittering snowflakes were falling on the ground. For some it was a pain. There were times when harsh weather and snow brought the end of a sultan

Newspapers have always played an important part in society, shaping life both socially and politically. A number of newspapers were published in different languages including Arabic, Persian, French, Greek, Armenian and Bulgarian in the Ottoman Empire

Bankers were very active in financing Ottoman-era trade. Based in the Galata quarter, the empire relied on them for long-term loans. Galata bankers, whose financial power reached its peak in the 19th century, were involved in the establishment of the state's first banks

The rivalry between Russia and the Ottoman Empire had shown itself in a series of wars, the most significant of which happened between 1877 and 1878. Balkan nationalism was the main reason behind the Russo-Turkish War, bringing many changes to both politics and economics

Throughout history, women have struggled for equality and gained political and civil rights gradually. In Islamic law, a number of binding provisions, although not very well known, were introduced to empower women at home and in society

The long-rooted relations between Turks and Arabs go back to the eighth century, notably after the Battle of Talas in 705. The ties between Arabs and Turks strengthened over the years, yet confronted difficult times when the Party of Union and Progress took power from the Ottoman government and instilled nationalist sentiments in the public

Slavery has existed in different civilizations over millennia. With the arrival of Islam, the institution of slavery was rehabilitated and many slaves were set free. During the Ottoman-era, slaves were trained as professional soldiers and statesmen

The first election in the Ottoman Empire took place in 1840, which established local councils in order to address issues related to administration and public order. While women's suffrage was introduced in 1935, the transition to a multi-party system occurred during the 1946 elections

There are days in history on which many well – known incidents occurred, such as today. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is one of those days. Ashura means 10th day in Semitic languages, and the customary dessert prepared on this day is also called ashura. Today, Oct. 23, is the Day of Ashura

Cucinare la ashura non fa parte dell'islam, ma è tradizione di tutti i musulmani prepararla in questo giorno

Even though Turkey is not usually considered successful at commercializing cheese, Turkish cuisine offers just as good of a selection as other countries and has a variety of cheeses thanks to its proximity to Rumelia and the Caucasus, the homeland of dairy products, and the Middle East

Coffehouses started to spread in Istanbul after 1554 when the first two coffeehouses opened in the city. First, the Ottoman administration did not interfere with the actions of the public as long as they did not disturb the political order and social life, but when they became the place for secret meetings, coffee houses began to draw the authorities' attention

There are many theories explaining the star and crescent on the coats of arms of the Irish city of Drogheda and the English city of Portsmouth. What is the story behind these symbols?

Muslims celebrate Qurban Bayram, one of most important festivals in the Islamic calender along with Eid al-Fitr. The holiday marks the end of the hajj period and involves animal sacrifices as a symbol of Abraham's sacrifice to God

Kösem Sultan was one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history. She found herself in the midst of political chaos after her husband Sultan Ahmed I died, but she eliminated her opponents even though she suffered a bitter death. While some historians say she was a master manipulator, others think she was a prominent actor who helped ensure the empire's survival

The statistics of the early Republican era suggest the literacy rate in the Ottoman Empire was lower than 10 percent. However, these numbers do not reflect the truth, as the alphabet reform introduced Latin letters to replace the Ottoman Arabic alphabet, thereby making much of the literate population effectively illiterate

Selim I and Ismail I, two Muslim rulers that reigned over the Ottoman Empire and the Safavid Persian Empire, two major powers in the 16th century, always had a hostile attitude toward each other that arose from political conflicts and sectarian differences. This conflict led to the Çaldıran War, which concluded with a decisive Ottoman victory and started the dissolution of the Safavids

Şer’î bir devletten söz edebilmek için hangi kriterler lâzım gelir? Osmanlı Devleti’nin bunlara ne denli sahiptir?

As a member of a noble Avar family, Imam Shamil burned the fire of independence in Dagestan against its Russian oppressors by uniting local tribes. When he was captured after 25 years of heroic resistance, Russian Tsar Alexander II personally met with him and even admired him for his resistance

The Devşirme Act, which was issued in the 15th century, allowed the taking of sons of non-Muslim citizens and putting them into government service to be trained. The system trained 64 grand viziers as well as many important statesmen and army officers. The system worked functionally until 1633, when it began to fail due to the inclusion of children from Muslim families

Fransa’da başına fes geçirip kendisini IV. Selim adıyla padişah ilan eden adam, aslında İskenderiye’de hânedanın da doktorluğunu yapan bir Fransızın üvey oğludur.

After the Spanish reached the shores of the Americas they began exploiting the continent, but struggled against pirates while carrying plundered treasure back to Europe. Even though other powers cut them down to size in the 19th century, it created many areas with Spanish culture and the Spanish language

Undoubtedly, fratricide is one of the most controversial topics in Ottoman history. Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror's Law of Governance imparted the right of executing the male members of the dynasty to his son in order to prevent an interregnum. There were different practices regarding fratricide throughout the empire's history, with most of them seen as legitimate, but some executions, done to prevent a possible revolt, were criticized as illegitimate

Built in the 5th century, the walls of Istanbul, which are some of the oldest remaining city walls, were used for military and public purposes in the past. Today, most of the gates to the city are associated with the name of neighborhoods that settled around them throughout history

The Ottoman Empire imposed a constitutional monarchy for the second time on July 23, 1908, 30 years after the first unsuccessful attempt. While the sultan's authority was limited, power shifted to the military and bureaucracy, which dragged the country into WWI

During World War I, the Allied forces defeated the Ottoman Empire and redrew the map of the Middle East for the post-war European colonial period. In order to protect their interests, artificial borders were drawn by diplomats that ignored regional features and sowed the seeds of conflict that continue today

June 29 marked the execution anniversary of Sheikh Said. He was labeled as a British spy and separatist traitor by the official discourse of the Republic. However, he was considered a hero by the Kurdish people and a man who sacrificed his life for the sake of his ideals. As opposed to the popular belief, his rebellion started from a simple, local incident, and was not an organized nationalist or religious movement

Hats have been much more than just a fashion accessory since the beginning of Turkish Republic: They have also been at the center of an important political issue. A reform involving hat-wearing and a revolt against it caused many lives to be lost during the early Republic period

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims, has a different atmosphere from the other months of the year. This atmosphere owes its uniqueness to iftar tables, vigorous Tarawih prayers and the people who pack the mosques

It is rumored that the very first Ottoman observatory was founded in the 17th century and demolished soon after. Several stories have been attributed to the observatory and its founder, Taqi al-Din, throughout history, but the truth is hidden between the lines of these legends and stories

For many people, the late arrival of printing is the reason why the Ottomans left behind other great powers, something they attributed to bigotry. In reality, the first printing press in the Ottoman Empire dates back to the same period of that of in Europe. However, it did not gain popularity. But why?

The conquest of Constantinople by the Turks on May 29, 1453 is more than just the ordinary fall of a city. The conquest was a turning point both in the Turkish and Islamic history and the history of the world

Built by the Byzantines as a church, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. It was later converted into a museum after the declaration of the Turkish Republic. Its situation has always being controversial during the Republican periodand there have been different initiativestaken by politicians to change its status

Throughout its history, not only Muslims but also non-Muslim people and groups who were exposed to discrimination because of their religion, ethnicity or lifestyle resorted to taking shelter in the Ottoman Empire. In turn, they were openly welcomed by Ottoman society

The Kılıç Ali Pasha Mosque is a beautiful structure that decorates the Bosporus on the Tophane Pier on Istanbul’s European side. It was built by Mimar Sinan by filling the sea with rocks, and was named after Kılıç Ali Pasha, one of the most prominent figures in Ottoman maritime history

Today, the 1915 events are not discussed between Armenia and Turkey, but major powers take up the issue. This is a historical process, as eastern Anatolia of the Ottoman Empire, where most Armenians were living, was an area that saw a power struggle between France, Russia and the U.K., where each had their own projects for region

The pains endured in 1915 by Armenians living in the Ottoman Empire, due to a powerful diaspora, have become an international issue of propaganda. Ankara denies the claims of genocide, defending that the matter was nothing but the relocation of Armenians who were close to the Russian front for military security and that the real massacre was done by Armenians

Jamal al-Din al-Afghani whose influence continues to this day, is one of the most debated personalities of recent history. Was he a great reformist who aimed to revive the Muslim world, or a mad man who thought he was the Mahdi, or a spy?

Historians refer to the years between 1718 and 1730 as the ‘Tulip Era' in Ottoman history. It references the people who were fascinated by the flower and their interest in tulip gardens. However, it is not just a period that saw high aesthetic tastes on the rise, but draws interest as a peaceful and prosperous time between periods of intense war

Being a cradle of some of the world's oldest civilizations, Yemen has not been able to establish a stable political structure for almost a century due to its divided groups. Now, the country is experiencing another bloody civil conflict followed by yet another foreign intervention

Originating from the Kaffa region of Ethiopia, coffee was introduced to Turks in the early Ottoman period. Gradually,it gained an important place in Ottoman culture and became popular among patrons of coffee houses in Istanbul

The Islamic term ‘jihad,' meaning ‘struggle' in Arabic, is misinterpreted in today's lexicon. It does not mean forcing someone to abide by Islamic rules because, as it says in the Quran, ‘There is no compulsion in religion'

On March 3, 1924, the leaders of the newly-formed Turkish Republic ordered the exile of the members of the Ottoman royal family. This did not just mean deportation, but also meant the beginning of a journey that included harsh living conditions in different parts of the world

While debates continue about the origins of yogurt, certain scientific studies indicate that Turkic peoples may have been the first to discover this salutary food. Later, it spread to other continents with mass migrations

Last week, the Turkish Army relocated the Tomb of Süleyman Shah to a location closer to the Turkish border. Yet, there have been some controversies about the identity of the remains in the tomb, which belong to a predecessor of the Ottoman Empire

The post-coup Constitution of 1982 introduced a tragic presidential practice in Turkey that gives a largely ceremonial role to presidents who were elected by Parliament. Now, it is reasonable to implement a more systematic practice by adopting a presidential model

The followers of Wahhabism claim that they are trying to purify Islam and see themselves as devotees of early Muslims and their practices. However, it is a mistake to include Wahhabis within the framework of mainstream Sunni Islam, as their interpretation and methods differ significantly

The declaration of World War I, one of deadliest conflicts in history, led to major transformations in the societies of both the victors and the losers. As one of the losers, the Ottoman Empire paid an especially heavy price, as those responsible who had plunged the empire into the war fled and left the destruction behind

King Abdullah, the late king of Saudi Arabia, died at the age of 90 last week. The new king, Salman, is 80-years-old and his half-brother Muqrin, 72, has been announced as the new crown prince, meaning the period of elderly kings will continue in the country

Many foundations, shelters and hospitals were established during the Ottoman era dedicated to the protection of street animals, as people considered doing so a religious responsibility and feared the effects of mistreating animals

As one of the most famous and controversial historical figures in Ottoman history, Hürrem Sultan is usually depicted as an ambitious and power-hungry character that manipulated Sultan Süleyman. But is this really the truth?

Recently proposed as an elective course at high schools, the Ottoman language is not entirely different from Turkish. lt is the ancestral language of Turks who have been living in Anatolia for centuries. The difference lies in its letters and the lack of invented words

The emperors’ seal, which was one of the most significant indicators of imperial authority, varied in ornamentation depending on cultural and regional characteristics. While European emperors had illustrated and ornate seals, Ottoman sultans merely featured decorative calligraphy

Fires in Istanbul had been a centuries-long problem for the Ottomans. The libraries of the city, which were contructed with thick walls and brick roofs, survived the fires over the centuries and have kept the city’s memories alive

Unlike swimming in a pool, the practice of sea bathing was once very popular. Women and men used to have their own public sea baths. Reminiscent of swimming pools, sea baths were not only seen as a refreshing and fun activity, but also a place for socializing.

Tripod cameras attracted a great deal of attention when they were first introduced to Turkey in the 19th century in the final stages of the Ottoman Empire

Water is a problematic issue facing humanity. Legends tell the story of men carrying water from mountains to marry the daughters of wealthy families. The Ottoman Empire resolved the problem by building aqueducts.

Under the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the Armenians were one of the three non-Muslim communities along with the Orthodox and Jewish people. They were called "millet-i sadıka" ("loyal people or nation") since they lived in harmony with the new rulers of Anatolia. According to Ottoman records dating back to 1914, the Armenian population was 1.23 million

It is well known that Ottoman janissary music inspired European composers. German composer Richard Wagner once said, "That is the real music"

The world's oldest written constitution was announced 14 centuries ago in Medina, Saudi Arabia. The constitution featured a precursor to democracy. Turks are recognized as the leading actor of modern constitution, history since 1808 and the Ottoman Empire adopted the regime of constitutional monarchy with the Constitution of 1876

Turkish people are known to love flowers.

There were once many Europeans settled in the eastern Mediterranean region for trade. This community was known as "Levantine," which means "eastern Mediterranean" in French

There are different traditions in the preparation and serving of Turkish desserts. Certain sweets mark the occasion of important events within the year

The Lawgiver Sultan Suleiman's mother, Valide Sultan was a Crimean Tatar and points out that the Sultan was "not like he is portrayed in the TV drama", contrary to today's inaccurate depiction, he carried traits resembling the Tatars.

Intelligent and charitable, Süleyman the Magnificent's daughter Mihrimah married a grand vizier, inspired Mimar Sinan, and advised her father and brother in state affairs

A homeland for Tatars since the eighth century and ruled by the Ottoman Empire for hundreds of years until the Russian conquest, anything that happens in the Crimean peninsula reverberates in Turkey

The 2nd International Symposium on “Traditional Foods from Adriatic to Caucasus” 24-26 October 2013 Struga (Ohrid Lake) / Macedonia

Cihan Harbi’ne katılan yüzbinlerce genç, harb meydanlarında veya esaret kamplarında hayatını kaybetmiş; hayatta kalanlar da uğradıkları travma sebebiyle yaşayan birer ölü olarak ömrünü tamamlamıştır.

İngiltere ile münasebetlerimiz geç başlamıştır ama yakın tarihe de damgasını vurmuştur.

Anayasa tecrübemiz 200 yıldan fazla… 1808’den beri modern anayasa tarihinin baş aktörlerinden biriyiz. Türkiye'de ilk modern yazılı anayasa 1876 tarihli Kanun-ı Esasî’dir. Bununla Osmanlı Devleti anayasalı bir parlamenter monarşi hâlini almıştır.

Altın soylu bir madendir. Soyluların da tutkusu olmuştur. Altın, sarı rengi ile sükûneti, kızıl ışıltısıyla da hırsı ilham eder.

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