460 Years Have Passed Since the Death of Suleiman the Magnificent

460 years have passed since the death of Suleiman the Magnificent, the longest-reigning padishah of the Ottoman State. Leaving his mark on the era in military, legal, and cultural fields throughout his 46-year reign, Sultan Suleiman passed away during the Siege of Szigetvár.

Who Was Suleiman the Magnificent

Born in Trabzon as the son of Yavuz Sultan Selim and Hafsa Sultan, Suleiman the Magnificent ascended the throne as the 10th Ottoman padishah following his father's death. Throughout his reign of approximately 46 years, the Ottoman State reached the peak of its political, military, and economic power.

Military Conquests and Campaigns

Embarking on a total of 13 major campaigns during his reign, Suleiman accomplished the conquests of Belgrade and Rhodes. In the campaign organized in 1529, the Ottoman army advanced as far as the gates of Vienna, significantly increasing its influence in Central Europe.

Mediterranean Dominance and Legal Regulations

Thanks to the Ottoman navy extending from North Africa to the Eastern Mediterranean, the balance in the Mediterranean shifted entirely in favor of the Ottomans. Sultan Suleiman also received the title 'The Magnificent' (Kanuni) due to the legal codes he had prepared and his comprehensive regulations in the field of law.

Literary Aspect and the Divan of Muhibbî

In addition to his military and administrative successes, the ruler was also known for his poetry, using the pen name Muhibbî in his poems. These works were later gathered under the name Divan-i Muhibbî, published by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The Szigetvár Campaign and His Death

Despite his advanced age and health problems, Suleiman embarked on his final campaign in 1566 to besiege Szigetvár Castle, but passed away on the night connecting September 6 to September 7 before he could witness the conquest of the castle. His death was kept secret to prevent any drop in morale.