Mahmud II: Istanbul in the Process of Reconstruction

Mahmud II: Istanbul in the Process of Reconstruction

Mahmud II: Istanbul in the Process of Reconstruction, edited by Coşkun Yılmaz, examines the reign of Sultan Mahmud II, one of the most influential figures in Ottoman modernization. Through his far-reaching reforms, Mahmud II transformed and restructured the classical Ottoman administrative system in line with developments in the West, making him a central figure in the history of Turkish modernization and an important contributor to the historical foundations of modern Türkiye.

As a period in which the foundations of contemporary Türkiye were laid and profound reforms were implemented across many areas of public life, the era of Mahmud II occupies a crucial place in both Ottoman and Turkish history. Prepared with contributions from Turkish and international scholars, the book explores the Sultan’s life, the restructuring of the state, the preparation and implementation of reforms, and their social and political consequences.

The volume also addresses a wide range of topics, including politics, education, healthcare, science, culture, art, literature, music, and the city of Istanbul itself—the stage upon which these radical transformations unfolded. Enriched with visual materials such as miniatures, paintings, engravings, imperial decrees, certificates, and historical as well as contemporary photographs, the work serves as an experiment in visual history.

Its aim is to illustrate the role Istanbul played during the reign of Mahmud II, to portray the city’s urban fabric, daily life, governmental structure, and cultural, social, and scientific environment in the early nineteenth century, and to highlight the civil, religious, and military architecture, as well as the official musical traditions, that emerged during this transformative era and have survived to the present day.

Editor: Coşkun Yılmaz

Publisher: Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture

Publication Year: 2010

Language: Turkish–English

Dimensions: 25 × 34 cm

Page Count: 519 pages