The Magnificent Century: True Story of Sultan Suleiman and Roxelana
About this experience
During a 3-hour walk through the most remarkable places of the historical center of Istanbul, I will tell you the story of the outstanding Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, about the era in which he lived and ruled, about his conquests and achievements. And, of course, about what is truly known about the love of his life - a love that influenced the future history of the Ottoman Empire, predetermined its decline and fall.
What to Expect
3 hours of immersion in the history of the Ottoman Empire
I will introduce you to the history of Istanbul, tell you about the city's conquest by the Turks, the most outstanding personalities of the 600-year Ottoman era, and the founder of the modern Turkish Republic. And, of course, the main theme will be the life story of the great ruler - Sultan Suleiman I.
Authentic streets and places of the old city
We will start from the central square of Sultanahmet. In this square, you will see and learn about the history of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Cathedral-Museum, Hippodrome Square, the underground cistern, the Roman Milon, and Ibrahim Pasha Palace. I will also share with you the secret of how and where to get a museum card that will significantly reduce your expenses on entrance tickets to museums and palaces;
Suleymaniye Mosque complex
The Grand Bazaar in the Suleymaniye complex - the great architectural creation of the architect Sinan - the imperial mosque of Suleiman I, where he rests in his mausoleum next to his beloved Roxelana.
Eastern market vibes
We will walk through the Grand Istanbul Covered Market and the Egyptian Spice Market and finish the walk on the Golden Horn bay shore in the district of Eminonu, famous for its boats selling local traditional delicacy Balik ekmek - fish in bread.
The truth and fiction of the Magnificent Century
The popular series depicts the love story of the greatest of the Ottoman sultans, Suleiman the Magnificent, with the Slavic concubine Roxelana. You will learn the answers to many questions that will help you understand whether the story shown on the screen is true.
- Was Roxelana really a fiery-red beauty?
- Is it true that Suleiman was a skilled jeweler?
- Did the intrigues, secrets, murders of heirs and viziers really exist?
- How did Roxelana manage to captivate the sultan's heart and become the most influential woman in the history of the Ottoman Empire?
- Why is she known as Roxelana and entered Turkish history as Hurrem?
- What is a harem and who are eunuchs?
- How is it possible that the Ottoman rulers, who are holy protectors of Islam, had heirs to the throne from non-Muslim women?
- Did Suleiman really spend so much time in the palace rather than on military campaigns?
- Why did Suleiman order the execution of the grand vizier Ibrahim Pasha and his own sons, princes Mustafa and Beyazid?
- What was the fate of the sultan's sisters and children? Why did Roxelana and Suleiman die and where are they buried?
- Which of the sons inherited the throne and how did it affect the future of the Empire?
Who is this tour for
The walk is perfect for first-time visitors to Istanbul as it passes through the central tourist spots of the historical part of the city. By your request, the narration about Suleiman the Magnificent can easily transform into a story about the history of Istanbul as a whole, which will help you navigate the variety of routes, museums, and landmarks of our city.
Organizational Details
When visiting the mosque, women should dress accordingly: bring scarves/shawls and avoid wearing short skirts/shorts as when visiting an active mosque, women should cover their head, shoulders, and knees (however, pants/jeans are perfectly acceptable).
If you are booking the tour more than 1.5 months in advance from the date of booking, please write to me before booking to additionally coordinate the date.
