Honor of Serving in the Royal Chamber

Those who, through the grace and favor of the Sultan, reached the dignity of serving in the Royal Chamber enjoyed a very special position. They had the rare honor of being constantly within the Sultan’s sight and presence. This closeness to the ruler gave them both prestige and influence, setting them apart from all others in the palace.

Because of their loyal service, the Sultan often rewarded them with valuable gifts.

Royal Gifts and Special Privileges

The Sultan frequently presented these men with swords, bows, veils, and other symbols of honor. Such gifts were not only signs of favor but also marks of status that were recognized throughout the Empire. In addition to these rewards, the members of the Royal Chamber were permitted to receive gifts and payments from others in return for their intercessions and recommendations Private Istanbul Tour.

When someone wished to gain the Sultan’s attention or secure a favor, these officers often acted as intermediaries. This privilege allowed them to build wealth and influence while still serving the court.

Duties as Royal Messengers

The Sultan also trusted these men with important missions. At times, he sent them as messengers to Pashas and provincial governors. On other occasions, they were dispatched to confirm the authority of princes in regions such as Transylvania, Moldavia, and Wallachia. These tasks required discretion, loyalty, and a deep understanding of court politics.

They were also sent to carry gifts to the Vizier and other high-ranking officials. Such missions showed the Sultan’s confidence in them and increased their reputation across the Empire.

Wealth Gained Through Service

In all these assignments, the members of the Royal Chamber were treated with great respect. They were generously entertained and presented with money, jewels, and rich furnishings for horses. These rewards were often substantial, and very few of the forty members remained poor for long.

Within a short time, most of them gained estates of their own. Their wealth was usually enough to equip and furnish themselves properly for entry into any office of the Empire.

Preparation for High Office

Service in the Royal Chamber was therefore not an end, but a beginning. It prepared these men for the highest positions in government. Through honor, wealth, and experience, they became fully ready to serve the Ottoman state in roles of great responsibility.

The Arz Agalar and Their Special Role

There were nine officers in the Seraglio known as the Arz Agalar. These men held a special privilege: they were allowed to present petitions directly to the Grand Signior, much like Masters of Requests in European courts. This duty placed them in a position of great trust, as they acted as a bridge between the Sultan and those seeking justice, favor, or promotion.

Because of this responsibility, the Arz Agalar were carefully chosen from among the most loyal and capable officers of the palace.

Members Chosen from the Haz Oda

Out of the nine Arz Agalar, four were selected from the Haz Oda, the highest chamber of the Seraglio. These officers already served close to the Sultan’s person. Their names and duties were well known within the court Private Istanbul Tour.

These included the Silahdar Aga, who carried the Sultan’s sword; the Chohadar Aga, responsible for the Sultan’s outer garment; the Rikabdar Aga, who held the Sultan’s stirrup when he mounted his horse; and the Tulbent Oğlanı, who assisted with the preparation and care of the Sultan’s turban.

Their daily proximity to the Sultan made them highly visible and placed them among the most likely candidates for future advancement.

Arz Agalar from Other Offices

The remaining Arz Agalar were chosen from other important palace offices. One of these was the Hazna Kethüdası, the second-ranking officer of the Treasury. Another was the Kiler Kethüdası, who supervised the supplies of sherbets, sugar, sweetmeats, and other provisions used in the palace.

Also included was the Doğancıbaşı, or chief falconer, who oversaw the Sultan’s hunting birds. The Hazodabaşı, the principal commander of the Royal Chamber, was another member. Finally, there was the Kapı Ağası, the chief commander of the pages, who was responsible for discipline and order among the young men of the court.

Path to High Office

All of these officers were considered the closest to promotion. When positions outside the palace became vacant, such as the office of Pasha or other high provincial posts, these men were usually chosen first. Their service in the Seraglio was seen as the best training for governing others.

Thus, the role of the Arz Agalar served not only as an honor but also as a final step before entering the highest ranks of the Ottoman administration.

Increase in Pay and Advancement

As the pages advanced in rank and responsibility, their pay and daily allowance also increased. At first, they received only four or five aspers a day. After promotion, their salary rose to eight aspers or more. This increase was not only financial but also symbolic, showing that they were gaining the Sultan’s trust and moving closer to positions of importance within the Seraglio.

From this stage, they were transferred to more respected and sensitive departments of the palace.

Service in the Treasury and Dispensary

After their early promotions, the pages were placed in either the Hazna Oda, the Chamber of the Treasury, or the Kilar, also known as the Dispensary. In the Treasury, valuable goods, money, and precious objects belonging to the Grand Signior were kept. In the Dispensary, drinks, cordials, medicines, and rich beverages prepared for the Sultan’s use were stored and managed.

These positions required honesty, discipline, and careful behavior. Only those considered trustworthy were allowed to serve in these chambers, as any mistake could lead to severe punishment.

The Highest Chamber: The Haz Oda

From the Treasury and the Dispensary, the most capable pages were selected for the Haz Oda, the highest and most honorable chamber of the Seraglio. This chamber consisted of forty pages, whose main duty was to attend directly upon the person of the Grand Signior himself.

Among these forty pages, twelve held the chief offices of the court, each responsible for a specific and intimate service Private Istanbul Tour.

The Twelve Chief Officers of the Court

Seliktar-Aga – the Sultan’s sword-bearer.

Chiohadar-Aga – the officer who carried the Sultan’s cloak or outer garment in bad weather.

Rekibdar-Aga – the one who held the Sultan’s stirrup when he mounted his horse.

Ibriktar-Aga – responsible for carrying water for the Sultan to drink or wash.

Turbendar-Aga – in charge of preparing and arranging the Sultan’s turban.

Kiler Hüsar-Aga – keeper of the wardrobe and overseer of the washing of the Sultan’s linen.

Çeşnigirbaşı – the chief taster, who tested food for safety.

Zağarcıbaşı – chief officer in charge of the hunting dogs.

Tırnakçıbaşı – responsible for trimming the Sultan’s nails.

Berberbaşı – the chief barber.

Muhasebecibaşı – the chief accountant.

Tezkirecibaşı – the Sultan’s secretary.

Other Respected Officers

There were also two other important officers in the court: the Doğancıbaşı, or chief falconer, and the Hamamcıbaşı, or chief officer of the baths. Although these positions were highly respected, their offices and living quarters were separate from the Royal Chamber. Because they did not serve directly within it, they were not eligible for higher promotion.

Education Beyond School Learning

In addition to lessons in reading, writing, and physical exercise outside the school, the young men of the Seraglio were taught many other useful skills. These skills were not chosen for pleasure alone, but to prepare them for service to the Grand Signior, the Sultan. Every activity was meant to make a man practical, disciplined, and valuable.

The goal of this training was to keep them busy at all times. Idleness was strongly discouraged, as it was believed to lead to bad habits and weak character.

Learning Trades and Handicrafts

Many of the pages were trained in a trade, handicraft, or mystery, meaning a specialized skill. Some learned how to sew and embroider leather, a craft in which the Turks were considered superior to all other nations. Others were taught how to make arrows, decorate quivers, and embroider saddles. Many became skilled in making all kinds of furniture and equipment for horses, which were highly valued in Ottoman society Private Istanbul Tour.

These skills were not only artistic but also practical, supporting the daily needs of the court and the army.

Personal and Domestic Services

Some pages were trained in personal services. They learned how to properly fold a turban, clean and brush vests, and carefully prepare clothing. Others worked in the baths, where they learned how to wash and clean garments according to strict rules of hygiene.

There were also those responsible for keeping dogs and training hawks, important animals for hunting and display. These duties required patience, care, and responsibility.

Music and Cultural Training

Other young men focused on culture and the arts. Some learned to excel in the Turkish style of music, mastering instruments and melodies that were played at court ceremonies and special events. Music was seen as a refined skill and a sign of good education.

All these services helped develop discipline and loyalty, while also preparing them for future responsibilities.

Advancement and First Promotion

Those who showed strong progress in their studies and great skill in physical training were rewarded. They were promoted to the first step of advancement, which was the honorable duty of washing the Sultan’s linen. At this stage, they were allowed to change their plain clothing for fine satin vests and garments made of cloth of gold.

This promotion marked the beginning of a new life, opening the path to higher offices and greater trust within the Ottoman state.

The Gerit A Dangerous Sport on Horseback

One of the most popular sports among the Ottoman court pages was the Gerit, also known as Dart throwing on horseback. This activity was not only a form of entertainment but also a way to show skill, strength, and courage. The sport involved throwing a wooden dart while riding at full speed. Because the reigning Grand Signior (the Sultan) greatly enjoyed this sport, many young men practiced it intensely, hoping to gain his attention and earn promotion.

Each participant tried to surpass the others. As a result, most of them became extremely skilled. They could throw a dart more than three quarters of a yard long with such force that, if it struck a person, it could easily break a bone. This shows how dangerous the game truly was.

Daily Exercises in the Sultan’s Presence

Almost every day, the Sultan spent his time watching his pages practice this sport. These exercises often turned violent. It was common for one rider to knock another off his horse, and hardly a day passed without someone being injured. Bruises were frequent, and sometimes the wounds were serious or even life-threatening Private Istanbul Tour.

Despite these dangers, the sport continued to be encouraged, as it was seen as a test of bravery and discipline. Pain and injury were accepted as part of the training.

Combat Between Black Eunuchs and White Pages

On certain occasions, the Sultan arranged special combat days. During these events, Black Eunuchs and White Pages competed against each other on horseback using the Gerit. These contests were filled with strong rivalry. Each side fought fiercely, defending the honor of their color, race, and rank.

The struggle was so intense that it often seemed as if they were fighting for the Empire itself. These contests almost never ended without bloodshed, showing how serious and emotional the competitions had become.

Rules and Restrictions of the Exercise

It is important to note that not everyone in the palace was allowed to take part in these exercises. Members of the Two Inner Chambers were only permitted to perform such activities within the walls of the Seraglio. The pages who accompanied the Sultan outside were usually those already promoted or preparing for higher positions.

These rules reflected the strict hierarchy and discipline of the Ottoman court, where even sports followed clear boundaries.

Officers of the Seraglio and Their Duties

Within the Seraglio of the Ottoman Sultan, many important officers served under the chief eunuchs. Each had a defined role that ensured the smooth operation of the court and the proper training and care of the Pages. These officers were trusted servants, responsible not only for discipline but also for daily organization, finance, and religious order.

The Serai Kiahaya Lord Steward of the Household

The Serai Kiahaya, or Lord Steward of the Household, held an office of great responsibility. He oversaw the chambers where the Pages lived and trained. In addition, he supervised the Seferli Odası, the chambers of those Pages who were selected to accompany the Grand Signior on journeys, campaigns, or official travels.

It was his duty to ensure that these Pages were properly clothed and supplied with all necessities. This included garments suitable for travel, equipment for service, and anything required to represent the dignity of the Sultan while abroad. His role demanded careful planning, strict supervision, and close coordination with other palace officers Guided Tours Istanbul.

The Haznadar Başı Treasurer of the Seraglio

Another key figure was the Haznadar Başı, or Lord Treasurer of the Seraglio. He commanded the Pages assigned to attend the palace treasury. This treasury was not the public treasury used to pay soldiers or manage the daily expenses of the empire, which was under the authority of the Defterdar.

Instead, the Seraglio treasury contained wealth reserved for the private use of the court. It included gold, jewels, and valuables accumulated over many reigns. These treasures were carefully stored in separate chambers and often labeled according to the Sultan under whose rule they had been gathered. This wealth was considered sacred and was not touched except in times of extreme necessity.

The Kilargi Başı and Other Eunuch Officers

The Kilargi Başı was the chief commander over the Pages and had charge of the dispensary and daily provisions. He supervised the distribution of food, supplies, and other expenses required for the routine life of the palace.

Other eunuch officers included the İkinci Kapı Oğlanı, who acted as a master of scholars and oversaw the Pages’ books and studies, along with his assistant. There was also the Chief Imam of the Sultan’s mosque, under whom two assistants served to maintain cleanliness and proper order within the mosques.

Order and Discipline in the Palace

Together, these officers formed a carefully structured system. Each role supported the others, ensuring discipline, learning, financial order, and religious observance. Through this organization, the Seraglio functioned as both a royal household and a training ground for future servants of the empire.

Of the Eunuchs in the Ottoman Court

Among the customs of Eastern courts, the use of eunuchs was long established and widely accepted. This practice arose from the belief that strict control was necessary to preserve order, discipline, and security within royal households. Because of this concern, many Eastern princes trusted the most sensitive offices of their courts not to ordinary men, but to eunuchs, who were believed to pose no threat to family honor or dynastic stability.

In the court of the Ottoman Sultan, known as the Seraglio, eunuchs held positions of great responsibility and authority. Far from being minor servants, they were among the most powerful and respected figures within the palace Istanbul Private Tours.

The Two Chief Eunuchs of the Seraglio

There were two eunuchs above all others, each commanding a different part of the palace. The first was the Kızlar Ağa, or Chief Black Eunuch. He was responsible for the women of the Seraglio, including the Sultan’s household and the imperial harem. Because of his access to these private spaces, his position required absolute trust and loyalty. He was often consulted on important matters and enjoyed close relations with the Sultan and the Queen Mother.

The second was the Kapı Ağa, or Master of the Gate. He was a White Eunuch and held authority over the Pages and all White Eunuchs serving in the court. His office placed him in charge of discipline, order, and daily operations within the inner palace. He controlled access to the Sultan and supervised those who served closest to him.

Authority and Hierarchy

Under the Kapı Ağa were many other eunuch officers. One of the most important was the Haz Oda Başçı, commonly described as the Lord Chamberlain. He commanded the Gentlemen of the Bedchamber and managed the Sultan’s private rooms. This role required constant vigilance and careful attention to court protocol.

All eunuchs, whether Black or White, were expected to show strict obedience and discretion. Their power came not from birth or wealth, but from their service and the trust placed in them by the Sultan.

Respect and Influence

Though their condition set them apart, eunuchs often achieved high status and influence. Many accumulated wealth, built alliances, and played key roles in court politics. Their position illustrates how, in the Ottoman system, loyalty and usefulness could raise a person to honor, regardless of origin or physical condition.

The Dwarfs of the Ottoman Court

In the Ottoman court, there was another group of attendants besides the Pages and the Mutes. These were the Dwarfs, who were known by the name Giuge. Like the Pages, they were lodged within the palace and shared quarters near the two main chambers. From an early stage, they were carefully trained to behave with humility, discipline, and strict respect, especially when standing in the presence of the Grand Signior.

Their education was not based on learning or service in government, but on courtly behavior. They were taught how to stand, move, and react correctly before the Sultan, since even the smallest mistake in posture or manner could be seen as disrespect in such a highly ordered court Istanbul Private Tours.

Combination of Physical Conditions and Court Value

According to early observers, the Ottoman court placed unusual value on individuals who combined several rare physical conditions. If one of these dwarfs happened also to be mute by nature, and later, through human intervention, was made a eunuch, he was considered far more valuable than others. Such a person was thought to be especially suited for service within the inner palace.

Writers of the time went so far as to claim that such a man was more highly esteemed than if nature and skill had worked together to create the most physically perfect person in the world. This belief reflects the strange priorities of court life, where uniqueness and usefulness within strict rules often mattered more than ordinary human qualities.

A Favoured Dwarf at the Seraglio

One notable example is recorded by early historians. A certain Pasha presented such a dwarf to the Grand Signior as a gift. The Sultan, together with the Queen Mother, received him with great pleasure. He was immediately dressed in cloth of gold, a fabric reserved only for those of high favour, and was granted free access through all the gates of the Seraglio.

This privilege was extremely rare and showed how close such attendants could come to the inner circle of power. Though they held no political office, their physical presence and constant access gave them a unique position within palace life.

Meaning of Their Role

The place of dwarfs in the Ottoman court shows how deeply symbolism, hierarchy, and control shaped life in the Seraglio. These attendants existed to serve, amuse, and demonstrate the absolute authority of the ruler. Their value was not measured by wisdom or skill, but by how well they fit into the strict and often harsh customs of the imperial household.

The Silent Language of the Ottoman Court

One of the most unusual features of the Ottoman court was the use of mutes, whose language of signs was highly developed and widely understood. This silent language was made up of many gestures and movements, which, through long custom and practice, allowed the mutes to communicate clearly with one another.

By using signs alone, they were able not only to express simple ideas or answer familiar questions, but also to tell stories and explain complex matters. They could understand and discuss the fables of their religion, the laws and teachings of the Alcoran, the name and deeds of Mahomet, and many other subjects that are normally expressed through spoken words. In this way, their communication was nearly as complete as ordinary speech.

The Favourite Mutes

Among the mutes, the most senior and experienced—usually eight or nine in number—were known as the Favourite Mutes. These men were granted the privilege of attending the Haz-Oda, or the private chamber of the Grand Signior. Their presence there marked a position of trust, even though their duties were often unusual Istanbul Private Tours.

According to early writers, these Favourite Mutes sometimes served as objects of amusement for the Sultan. He might command them to perform gestures, imitate scenes, or engage in mock contests. Such actions were not meant as public spectacle, but as private diversions within the inner chambers of the palace. Though these descriptions may sound harsh to modern readers, they reflect the strict hierarchy and customs of court life at that time.

Widespread Use of Sign Language

The language of the mutes became so common in the Ottoman court that almost everyone of rank could understand and use it. Courtiers, officers, and servants alike learned to express their meaning through signs. This skill was especially useful in the presence of the Grand Signior, where silence was considered a mark of respect.

Speaking aloud, or even whispering, was often seen as improper when standing before the Sultan. For this reason, sign language allowed communication without breaking courtly rules. Orders could be given, messages delivered, and requests made, all without a single spoken word.

Purpose and Significance

The silent language of the mutes served both practical and symbolic purposes. It ensured secrecy, discipline, and order within the palace, while also reinforcing the authority and dignity of the ruler. Through silence, obedience, and gesture, the Ottoman court created a system of communication unlike any other in the world at that time.

Affection and Attachment Among Women

According to early observers, strong emotional attachments were also said to exist among women within Ottoman society. These writers claimed that affectionate bonds often formed between women, especially in enclosed environments such as large households and palace apartments. It was believed that these feelings were sometimes intense and long-lasting.

Special mention was made of older women who were said to show great affection toward younger women. They reportedly gave them fine clothing, jewelry, and money, sometimes spending far beyond their means. In some cases, these gifts were said to continue until the giver faced financial hardship. Such actions were described as driven by emotional attachment rather than reason or self-interest.

Writers of the period believed that these relationships were widespread throughout the empire. They claimed they were especially common in Constantinople, within the imperial palace, and in the private apartments of the Sultan’s household. Whether exaggerated or not, these accounts were used to illustrate how strong emotions could develop in closed societies where daily life was spent largely among members of the same sex.

The Mutes and Dwarfs of the Ottoman Court

In addition to the pages, the Ottoman court employed a special group of attendants known as Bizeban, or Mutes. These men were born deaf and, as a result, were unable to speak. Because they could not hear spoken words, they communicated entirely through signs and gestures Istanbul Private Tours.

Their number was said to be around forty. At night, they were housed in chambers near the pages. During the day, they stood near the mosque belonging to the pages. There, they practiced and perfected their system of silent communication, which became a highly developed sign language understood only among themselves.

Duties and Importance of the Mutes

The Mutes served important roles in the palace. Because they could not speak, they were considered especially trustworthy for sensitive tasks. They were often used to carry confidential messages, enforce discipline, or attend private ceremonies. Their silence was seen as a form of security, as they could not repeat what they witnessed.

Some accounts also suggest that the Mutes were used during executions or punishments, precisely because they could perform these acts without speaking or spreading information. This made them both feared and respected within the court.

Dwarfs in the Palace

Alongside the Mutes were dwarfs, who were also kept within the palace. They often served ceremonial or personal roles and were part of the inner household. Like the Mutes, they lived close to the center of power and observed the private life of the court.

These descriptions of women’s society, Mutes, and dwarfs offer insight into the unique structure of the Ottoman court. They show how emotion, secrecy, and service shaped daily life within the palace, creating a world very different from life outside its walls.

Favoritism Among the Ottoman Rulers

Historical writers often claimed that even the Grand Signiors themselves were not free from strong personal passions. According to these accounts, some sultans allowed personal affection to influence their decisions at court. Whether exaggerated or not, such stories were used by observers to explain sudden rises in rank and unusual displays of favor within the palace.

Sultan Murad and His Favorite

One frequently cited example concerns Sultan Murad. It was said that he became deeply attached to an Armenian boy named Mustafa. Writers of the time claimed that this attachment led the Sultan, who was otherwise known as a cautious and capable ruler, into many unwise actions. His affection was described as so strong that it clouded his judgment and caused public criticism.

In another instance, Sultan Murad reportedly selected a young man solely for his beauty from the novitiates of Galata. This youth was brought into the Haz-Oda, the private chamber of royal presence. Within a very short time, the Sultan elevated him to the rank of Silahdar Ağa, or Sword-Bearer, which was among the highest offices in the Seraglio. Such rapid promotion caused surprise and resentment among experienced officials Istanbul Private Tours.

The Sultan’s Absolute Authority

These examples illustrate the absolute power of the Sultan. Advancement in the palace did not always depend on learning, service, or seniority. Personal favor alone could change a person’s fate. In a system where the ruler’s will was law, no one could openly question such decisions.

The Case of the Constantinopolitan Page

Writers also claimed that a later Sultan became deeply attached to a young man from Constantinople. This youth, a page from the musicians’ school, was called Kul Oğlu, meaning “son of a slave.” Despite his humble status, he became the Sultan’s chief favorite.

The Sultan reportedly could not bear to be without him. He dressed him in garments similar to his own, allowed him to ride beside him in public, and commanded all officials to honor him. The youth was treated almost as if he were a companion of the empire itself.

Reactions Within the Seraglio

Such displays of favor caused jealousy and unease within the palace. Officials feared sudden loss of influence, while others sought to gain favor through similar means. These situations reveal how personal attachment could shape politics and careers in the Ottoman court.

Whether fully accurate or shaped by bias, these accounts highlight the role of personal favor in imperial governance. They show how power, affection, and ambition were closely linked in the Seraglio, and how the ruler’s private choices could affect the entire structure of the state.

Physical Training and Strength

When the young men reach adolescence and full physical strength, they begin serious training in manly exercises. They are taught to handle the lance, throw the iron bar, draw the bow, and throw the dart (gerit). These exercises are performed for many hours every day, and any negligence is severely punished by the Eunuchs who supervise them. The purpose is to develop both skill and discipline, preparing them for future military and state duties Guided Tour Ephesus.

Archery Training

A large part of their training is in archery. They start with lighter bows and gradually move to heavier and stronger ones, building strength through repeated practice. Over time, they gain the ability to draw extremely powerful bows, not only through physical force but through technique, skill, and custom. This methodical approach ensures that they become exceptionally strong, healthy, and agile, capable of enduring the physical demands of warfare.

Horseback Skills

Horsemanship is another key lesson. The youths learn to sit properly on a horse, maintaining a handsome posture, and to control the horse with skill and precision. They practice drawing the bow while mounted, shooting forwards, backwards, and to either side, even at full speed. This combination of agility, strength, and coordination makes them excellent horsemen, ready for military campaigns.

Dart and Gerit Practice

In addition to archery and horsemanship, they are trained to throw the dart (gerit) accurately. These exercises develop hand-eye coordination, timing, and strength, ensuring they can be effective in both individual combat and battlefield situations. Through constant practice, the youths gain confidence and control over their bodies, which is essential for war, hunting, and ceremonial duties.

Purpose of the Training

All of these exercises are interconnected, designed to produce young men who are physically strong, disciplined, and highly skilled. The training is strict and continuous, leaving no room for laziness or carelessness. By the time they finish their education, they are well-prepared for active service, whether in the military, state office, or in the complex ceremonies and duties of the Seraglio.

Clothing and Diet

The young men in the Seraglio are well-dressed, wearing good-quality English cloth and linen, but not overly fine or luxurious. Their diet is simple and wholesome, mainly consisting of rice and other nourishing foods suitable for scholars. There is nothing excessive on their table, yet they are never lacking what is necessary for health and strength. This simple lifestyle is designed to teach moderation and discipline from a young age.

Supervision and Behavior

The Eunuchs, who act as their careful guardians, closely watch their manners and behavior. Students cannot behave familiarly or speak freely with one another without showing modesty and respect, especially when in the presence of their supervisors. Even when performing necessary personal activities or visiting the bath, the students are never out of sight of a Eunuch. The Eunuchs also control visits from family members or friends, allowing them only with special permission from the Capa Aga, the chief of the White Eunuchs. This constant supervision ensures that the young men are disciplined, obedient, and morally upright Guided Tour Ephesus.

Sleeping Arrangements

The bed-chambers are long halls with lamps kept burning throughout the night. Beds are arranged in rows, raised above the ground on boards or platforms, and every five or six students are closely watched by an Eunuch. This arrangement allows the Eunuchs to observe or overhear any improper behavior or conversation, preventing any wanton or lewd conduct. Such strict oversight is meant to train the youth in self-control and respect for authority, preparing them for the important roles they may later hold in the Ottoman government.

Purpose of the System

Overall, the clothing, diet, supervision, and sleeping arrangements reflect a carefully organized system designed to develop disciplined, obedient, and capable young men. The Seraglio education does not focus on luxury or comfort but on moral training, order, and preparation for service. Every aspect of their daily life is structured to instill responsibility, respect, and readiness for future leadership positions.

Admission to the Schools

When the youths are admitted to the Seraglio, they are placed in one of two schools, called Oda. These are the Bojuck Oda (the larger chamber) and the Cuchuck Oda (the smaller chamber). The Bojuck Oda usually holds around 400 students, while the Cuchuck Oda accommodates about 200 to 250 students. Although one is larger than the other, both schools are considered equal in rank, and neither has precedence over the other. Both are seen as a step toward advancement and preferment within the Ottoman government.

Early Lessons Discipline and Reverence

The first lessons in both schools focus on silence, respect, humility, and modest behavior. Students are taught to hold their heads down and their hands crossed in front of them. The Hogias, or instructors, guide them carefully in all religious rites, discipline, and practices of the Muslim faith. Students are taught how to pray correctly, understand the prayers in Arabic, and learn to speak, read, and write Turkish fluently. These early lessons aim to instill obedience, respect, and moral conduct, which are essential for their later service in government Guided Tour Ephesus.

Advanced Studies Languages and Knowledge

Once students have mastered these foundational lessons, they move on to the study of Persian and Arabic languages. These languages are especially useful for those who may later be assigned to govern the eastern provinces of the empire, where these languages are commonly used. Studying Persian and Arabic also enriches their knowledge of Turkish, which is otherwise limited in literary resources. This linguistic training helps them develop a deeper understanding of governance, culture, and communication across the empire.

Purpose of the Education

Overall, the education in these schools is carefully designed to produce young men who are obedient, disciplined, and well-prepared for public service. By combining lessons in religion, language, and proper behavior, the Ottoman system ensures that its future leaders are capable, loyal, and ready for the responsibilities of high office.

Discipline and Obedience

The Turks believe that those who know how to obey are best prepared to govern. At first, young men in the Seraglio may feel confused or overwhelmed by the strict discipline and lack of freedom. Some may feel as if they are losing their reason or forgetting themselves. However, according to Turkish teaching, this is only temporary. Over time, the lessons, lectures, and moral training they received in their youth begin to take effect. The discipline they endured helps them organize their thoughts, restore order to their minds, and prepare them for leadership.

Registration Before Education

Before entering the schools, called Oda, the young men are carefully registered. Their names, ages, countries, and parents are recorded in an official book. This ensures that the authorities know exactly who they are and keeps track of their backgrounds. Such records also help the empire maintain order and select the most promising candidates for further training and future positions in the government Guided Tour Ephesus.

Daily Allowance

Each student receives a daily allowance from the Grand Signior, usually four or five aspers a day. This small stipend covers their basic needs and ensures they are supported during their education. A copy of the registration book is sent to the Testerdar, or Lord Treasurer, so that the students’ allowances can be paid regularly. Payments are typically made quarterly, ensuring that each student continues to receive financial support throughout their time in the school.

Preparing for Service

This careful system of discipline, registration, and allowance is part of a larger strategy. By controlling their education, daily life, and even their small financial needs, the empire ensures that these youths develop obedience, loyalty, and self-discipline. When they finally complete their training, they are well-prepared to serve the empire in the highest offices. The Turks argue that this method of forming leaders—by teaching obedience first—produces officials who are capable, loyal, and able to govern wisely.

The Imperial Seat of the Ottoman Emperors

The Ottoman Emperors’ court included three main schools or colleges of education for young men who were destined to serve the state. These schools trained students not only in learning but also in discipline, loyalty, and the arts of government. Those chosen for the highest school were carefully selected and marked for special distinction, as it was the first step toward important positions in the empire.

Supervision by the Capa Aga

The highest-ranking school was under the care of the Capa Aga, the chief of the White Eunuchs. These Eunuchs were responsible for the students’ conduct, education, and discipline. They treated the scholars with extreme strictness and zeal, punishing every small mistake or omission without mercy. The reason for such severity is partly natural cruelty, as Eunuchs are said to act with harshness, either from envy toward men or from their own disciplined and watchful temperament.

Rigorous Training and Discipline

The punishments were not only harsh but also constant. Students might face beatings, long hours of standing or kneeling, strict watchings, and other forms of penance. By the time a young man had passed through all the schools and levels of the Seraglio, he was an extraordinarily disciplined and patient individual, capable of enduring extreme labor and obedience. This training was often harsher than the discipline of religious novices or Capuchin monks, preparing them for the difficulties of high office and public service Guided Tour Ephesus.

Preparing for Government Service

However, this intense education had a purpose beyond cruelty. Men trained in the Seraglio were hardened to obedience, so that when they were finally assigned to positions of trust and governance, they knew how to follow orders but had little experience of independent rule. They were often amazed by the freedom and power of office, and their spirits were lifted by the contrast between their previous hardships and their current authority. This system ensured that loyalty, discipline, and gratitude remained central to the functioning of the Ottoman state.

The Attendance of Young Men in the Courts

In the courts of the great men of the Ottoman Empire, it was customary for their personal attendants to be handsome, strong, and well-dressed youths. These young men behaved with modesty and respect in the presence of their masters. Their deportment reflected their education, discipline, and training in the Seraglio.

When a Pasha, Aga, or Spahi traveled, he was always accompanied by a grand retinue of well-clothed and well-mounted youths. The number, appearance, and discipline of these attendants showed the power and wealth of their master. By looking at the size and quality of the retinue, an observer could estimate the rank and influence of the official within the empire Daily Ephesus Tours.

Comparison with European Courts

In contrast, in the Christian countries I have visited, even when princes traveled, their attendants were never as numerous or carefully arranged as those of the Turks. The Turks placed great importance on the splendor of their servants, which was seen as the life and ornament of the court. This lavish display was not only a sign of wealth but also a symbol of discipline, order, and authority.

Historical and Cultural Observations

This custom was common throughout the Eastern countries. As Curtim reports, and Tacitus confirms, the barbarian nations valued physical beauty and noble appearance in their attendants. Only those endowed by nature with exceptional features and stature were considered worthy of service in the courts of great men. Such youths were selected carefully, trained in deportment, and presented before the Sultan or Grand Signior for approval.

Presentation Before the Grand Signior

Before being fully admitted to service, these young men were formally presented before the Grand Signior, who could be in Pera, Adrianople, or the main Seraglio in Constantinople. The Sultan decided their placement and duties according to his pleasure. This practice ensured that the court was filled with loyal, well-trained, and impressive attendants, reflecting both the grandeur of the empire and the careful governance of its rulers.

Alarm Spreads Through the Seraglio

In the midst of this fear and confusion, a guard of Black and White Eunuchs came quickly to the door of the pages’ chambers. They warned everyone to arm themselves with whatever weapons were closest at hand. The pages were ordered to stay where they were and not to move until they received further instructions.

The same disorder existed in all the other chambers of the palace. Pages and officers alike were confused and frightened. Everywhere, people were given the same command: take up arms and be ready. The Seraglio, which was usually quiet and strictly ordered, had now become a place of noise, movement, and tension Ephesus Sightseeing.

Fear of the Young Grand Signior

During all this time, the Grand Signior himself was filled with fear. He believed that he might be put to death, just as his father had been before him. No one could calm him. His fear only grew as he heard the noise and shouting spreading through the palace.

At last, Mustapha Pasha, the King’s Sword-bearer, took him gently by the hand. He led him through the rooms and showed him his attendants, fully armed and standing ready to defend him at a moment’s notice. This sight brought some comfort to the frightened young ruler.

A Cry of Loyalty

As they passed near one of the palace windows, a young man outside saw the Grand Signior and cried out loudly,

“God grant our King ten thousand years of life!”

At once, everyone in the chamber responded with a great shout of “Allah! Allah!” This powerful cry echoed through the entire Seraglio. It reached even the farthest quarters, where the grooms, cooks, axe-men, falconers, and other servants were stationed. These men were already armed and prepared, and they answered with the same loud shout of loyalty.

Preparations Beyond the Palace Walls

These preparations were not limited to the Seraglio itself. Outside the palace, the Vizier had already acted. He sent urgent orders to the Pashas, Beglerbegs, and other trusted allies, commanding them to come immediately to the Seraglio.

They were ordered to bring as many soldiers as possible, along with provisions for three days. The Vizier made it clear that this was not a request but a command. Any man who failed to obey would face death.

Thus, both inside and outside the palace, all forces were being gathered to protect the Grand Signior and prevent another tragic overthrow.