The Humble Beginnings of the State
When Osman Bey, the founder of the Ottoman State (1299 – 1324), passed away, he left behind modest possessions: a spoon, a salt-shaker, an embroidered caftan, a new turban, silk flags, and fine horses. His treasury was devoid of substantial gold or silver, reflecting his simple lifestyle.
The Price of Peace The Conquest of Bursa
Orhan Bey, succeeding his father, besieged Bursa, where the Byzantine Commander negotiated safe passage for the city’s inhabitants and their belongings in exchange for 30,000 gold coins. This became a standard practice for almost three centuries, with Christian rulers paying 30,000 ducats as a “salvation asper” for peace negotiations. The conquest of Bursa was heralded across Asia, demonstrating the Ottomans’ expanding influence Transition of Power and Diplomacy in the Ottoman Empire.
Sultan Murat I and the Balkan Conquests
Sultan Murat I, after capturing Edirne, advanced into Europe, securing numerous conquests in the Balkans. During one campaign, the King of Bulgaria was captured along with his treasures. However, Sultan Murat I held strict standards regarding the distribution of spoils. When a soldier concealed a golden bowl, a portion of which belonged to the treasury, under his helmet, the Sultan reprimanded him for his actions Customized Round Turkey Tours.
Wedding Gifts A Source of Treasury Enrichment
Weddings of Ottoman princes were grand events where valuable gifts played a significant role in enriching the state treasury. At the wedding of Beyazit, one of Sultan Murad I’s sons, dignitaries from various regions, including Aydin, Mentese, Kastamonu, and Karaman, as well as envoys from Syria and Egypt, presented lavish gifts. Governor Evrenos’s gifts were particularly noteworthy, carried by 100 slaves. Among them were golden and silver plates filled with coins and basins adorned with precious stones, showcasing the opulence of the Ottoman Empire.
The Ottoman Treasury A Reflection of Power and Prestige
These historical anecdotes highlight the evolution of the Ottoman Treasury, from its humble beginnings under Osman Bey to its enrichment through conquests, negotiations, and diplomatic exchanges. The treasury not only served as a repository of wealth but also symbolized the power and prestige of the Ottoman Empire during its zenith.
