Origins of Homosexuality in the Ottoman Empire According to historical records, homosexuality in the Ottoman Empire began during the reign of Orhan Bey, nearly at the time of the state’s founding. Influences from the Byzantine and Persian worlds introduced these practices to the Anatolian region, and by Orhan Bey’s time, relationships between men had already taken root in various social …
History of Beer in the Ottoman Empire The history of beer in the Ottoman Empire can be traced back to the 19th century. Sultan Abdulhamid II ruled the empire from 1876 to 1909, a period marked by both modernization and increased centralization of power in the hands of the sultan. During his reign, Western cultural influences permeated various aspects of …
The history of bird houses goes way back. The construction of bird palaces and houses, which has been developing since the 15th century in accordance with classical Ottoman architecture, reached different aesthetic dimensions through the 19th century. In fact, the purpose of making bird palaces is to provide shelter to freely flying birds, to protect them from burning sun and …
In the 19th century, which was described as the most fervent period of the Ottoman for opening to the west, an Armenian family greatly influenced the architecture, which is still seen in present day.The Armenian architects called as the Balyan Family were held in high honor by the high state officials of the Ottoman in the 19th century. An enormous …
The vampire myth is believed to have originated in the west by the great influence of popular culture. While witches and ghouls are popular in the East, the “vampire” is seen as a product of western culture. However, one of the biggest symbols of the vampire cult, Count Dracula, was also sourced from Vlad III, who was a prince that …
One of the prominent figures in archaeological collaboration between Turkey and Japan, Japanese archaeologist Sachihiro Omura, passed away last month in Kırşehir. Living in Turkey since 1972 and serving as the excavation director at Kalehöyük since 1985, Omura passed away at Kaman State Hospital, where he had been admitted due to illness. According to some sources, Omura was born in …
Gölyazı Village, nestled on the shores of Lake Uluabat in Bursa, Turkey, is an enchanting destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and tranquil village atmosphere. Recognized by the Association of Japanese Travel Agencies as one of Europe’s 30 most beautiful towns, Gölyazı blends Ottoman-era charm with ancient Roman heritage, making it a must-visit spot for travelers …
Politics, football, art, cinema, love, passion, anger, wealth, poverty, and history—Istanbul embodies all aspects of life and naturally becomes an indispensable setting in Turkish literature. Since the Tanzimat literary era, countless novels have been set in this culturally rich city. However, in some novels, Istanbul transcends its role as a backdrop and emerges as a central character—almost the protagonist of the story. …
Anatolia, a region shaped by civilizations dating back to the dawn of humanity, is a cultural melting pot. Among the many legacies embedded in its rich heritage, the influence of Byzantine (Eastern Roman) music on Classical Turkish Music—particularly the tradition that evolved during the Ottoman era—remains a subject of both academic debate and musical fascination. Despite nationalist arguments that sometimes obscure …
When speaking of the most iconic symbols of Ottoman civilization, the mind instantly turns to imperial mosques, majestic plane trees, and historical fountains—especially those built under the patronage of the sultans. Over the centuries, additions like bridges, caravanserais, and baths enriched this legacy. Yet among them, one monument stands as a timeless masterpiece: the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, built by Sinan the …