Suleiman in a portrait attributed to Titian c.1530
In 1520, Suleiman I was the longest reigning sultan, ruling over the vast Ottoman Empire for 46 years. He was one of the most powerful monarchs during 16th century Europe. Suleiman expanded the empire across the Middle East, Europe and North Africa. However, his conquest of Europe was famously halted at the failed Siege of Vienna in 1529. An estimated 25 million people lived under his control.
Suleiman the Magnificent receives an ambassador (painting by Matrakçı Nasuh)
In addition to his military successes, he is remembered for implementing vast changes across the empire’s legislature, society, taxation, criminal law and education. Suleiman truly brought about a golden age for the Ottomans by also supporting the arts, literature, architecture and poetry. In fact, Suleiman himself was an accomplished poet and goldsmith.