Storm on Horseback

Charting the expansion of the Rum Seljuqs from rulers of a small principality to a fully- fledged sultanate ruling over almost the whole of Anatolia, this book demonstrates how ideology, rather than military success, was crucial in this development. The Rum Seljuqs examines four distinct phases of development, beginning with the rule of Sulaymān (473-478/1081-1086) and ending with the rule of Kay Khusraw II (634-644/ 1237-1246). Firstly, Songül Mecit examines the Great Seljuq ideology as a pre-cursor to the ideology of the Rum Seljuqs. Continuing to explore the foundation of the Seljuq principality in Nicaea, the book then examines the third phase and the period of decline for the Great Seljuqs. Finally, the book turns to the apogee of the Rum Seljuq state and questions whether these sultans can, at this stage, be considered truly Perso-Islamic rulers? Employing the few available Rum Seljuq primary sources in Arabic and Persian, and drawing on the evidence of coins and monumental inscriptions, this book will be of use to scholars and students of History and Middle East Studies.

The Rum Seljuqs

This lavishly illustrated volume presents the major surviving monuments of the early period of the Rum Seljuqs, the first major Muslim dynasty to rule Anatolia. A much-needed overview of the political history of the dynasty provides the context for the study of the built environment which follows. The book addresses the most significant monuments from across the region: a palace, a minaret and a hospital are studied in detail, along with an overview of the decorative portals attached to a wide array of different building types. The case studies are used to demonstrate the key themes and processes of architectural synthesis and development that were under way at the time, and how they reflect the broader society.

Rum Seljuq Architecture, 1170-1220

From Byzantium to the Mongols to the Sultans of Rum, this acclaimed book offers an important insight into the evocative history of Turkey before the coming of Ottoman power. Turkey forms a historical bridge between Europe and Asia and as such has played a pivotal role throughout history. The rise of Constantinople and the later Ottoman Empire are well known: less well understood are developments in the three centuries in-between. What led to the decline of the Byzantine Empire and what happened in the intervening years before the rise of the Ottomans? Translated from the original French, this classic work examines the history of the Turkey that eventually gave rise to an imperial power whose influence spanned East and West.

The Formation of Turkey

Byzantıum in the Near East:Its Relations with the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum in Asia Mınor the Armenians of Cılıcıa and the Mangas A.D. C 1192-1237

Building the Sultanate of Rum

Abstract: This is a study of the monumental epigraphy of the Anatolian Seljuk Sultanate, also known as the Sultanate of Rum, which emerged in Anatolia following the Great Seljuk victory in Manzikert against the Byzantine Empire in the year 1071. It was heavily weakened in the Battle of Köse Dağ in 1243 against the Mongols but lasted until the end of the thirteenth century. The history of this sultanate which survived many wars, the Crusades and the Mongol invasion is analyzed through their epigraphy with regard to the influence of political and cultural shifts. The identity of the sultanate and its sultans is examined with the use of their titles in their monumental inscriptions with an emphasis on the use of the language and vocabulary, and with the purpose of assessing their strength during different periods of their realm. The analysis is implemented through a chronological perspective with the attempt to establish the earlier dynastic influences affecting the choices of titles, literary styles and epigraphic formulae. The history of the Anatolian Seljuks is traced chronologically through the monumental inscriptions of the era in question, from the beginning of the reign of Rukn al-Din Mas'ud I which provides the earliest surviving Anatolian Seljuk numismatic epigraphy. The main analyses of monumental inscriptions cover the period from the reign of 'Izz al-Din Kılıç Arslan II (1156-1192) to the reign of 'Izz al-Din Kaykavus II (1246-1261). An assessment of the surviving monumental inscriptions of the wives of 'Ala' al-Din Kayqubad is included. The analyzed epigraphic material is linked to the development of the dynasty through its apogee until its defeat against the Mongols in the battle of Köse Dağ (1243). The chronological connections of Anatolian Seljuk inscriptions with historical events helps to understand the ideology and political motives of the dynasty. The inscriptions provide a clearer picture concerning the influences that might have shaped the royal identity of the Anatolian Seljuk dynasty. Moreover they defined the periods in which new titles were adopted by the Anatolian Seljuk sultans, and the differences that occurred in the structure, organization and vocabulary used in monumental inscriptions. The comparison of Anatolian Seljuk epigraphy with that of other contemporary and preceding dynasties enables us to detect the most important influences. The time frame of the analyzed inscriptions also allows for a conclusion regarding the effect of the battle of Köse Dağ on the use of royal titles, as well as the development in the Anatolian Seljuk sultanate's internal balance of power as a whole.

The Seljuks of Anatolia

The Sultanate of Rum, a historical Islamic state that flourished in Anatolia from the 11th to the 13th centuries, played a pivotal role in the region's history. Established by Seljuk Turks, it encompassed diverse cultures and contributed to the spread of Islam. With its capital in Iconium (modern-day Konya, Turkey), the Sultanate of Rum thrived through diplomatic alliances and military conquests. Its legacy lies in shaping Anatolia's cultural landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the region's architecture, art, and history. Explore the rich heritage of the Sultanate of Rum to better understand the historical tapestry of Anatolia.

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Sultanate of Rum

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