The grand inauguration of the Sultan Ahmet I’s Grand Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) was marked by opulence. During the ceremony, the Sultan, seated on his throne, generously bestowed over a thousand robes and mohair cloth to attendees, emphasizing the significance of the occasion.
Succession Troubles Sultan Mustafa I
Following Sultan Ahmet I’s reign, Sultan Mustafa I assumed the throne, but his reign was marred by mental instability. Engaging in eccentric acts such as wandering around tombs, throwing gold coins into the sea, and scattering gold on the roads fruitlessly, Sultan Mustafa I was deemed unfit to rule and was ultimately deposed by a fatwa issued by Sheikhulislam Esat Efendi Economic Measures and International Relations.
Sultan Osman II’s Reign
Sultan Osman II succeeded Sultan Mustafa I, prompting a second accession ceremony within a short timeframe. This customary event incurred significant expenses for the Treasury, especially considering the extravagance of previous rulers. Upon ascending the throne, Sultan Osman II conducted a ceremonial visit to the Eyiip Sultan mosque, where he learned of the escape of Khan of Crimea Mehmet Giray, imprisoned in the Castle of Seven Towers (Yedikule). Iskender Pasha successfully apprehended him in a Balkan town, earning the Sultan’s gratitude and rewards of honor, including robes and monetary gifts.
Military Ventures and Diplomacy
Expressing a desire to embark on voyages to both the West and East, Sultan Osman II dispatched the Imperial army from Diyarbakir to Iran Round Turkey Tours. Although the campaign ended in failure, the commander-in-chief managed to achieve some success in the inner regions of Iran, albeit falling short of the Sultan’s expectations. Eventually, a peace agreement was reached with Iran, leading to the exchange of envoys. The Iranian envoy, bearing lavish gifts including silk, elephants, and a rhinoceros, was received by the Sultan in Istanbul. These gifts, symbols of Persian generosity, were presented to the Sultan before being surrendered to the treasury by palace officials.
