Seljuks and Mamluks

Seljuks and Mamluks Overview

Empire: The Great Seljuk Empire, founded in 1037 by Tughril and Chaghri, spanned 3.9 million square kilometers across parts of modern-day Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia.
Cultural Influence: Predominantly Turco-Persian, with Persian culture and language adopted for governance.
Geographical Reach: Included regions from Anatolia and the Levant to the Hindu Kush.
Key Cities During Reign: Isfahan (capital since 1050), Bukhara, and Konya.
Architectural Contributions: Significant developments in Islamic art and architecture, notably under Malik Shah I and Nizam al-Mulk, who established madrasas promoting Sunni Islam.

After the late 12th century, smaller Turkic dynasties emerged, leading to the formation of local states like the Seljuks of Rum in Anatolia.
Transition from a predominantly Christian society to an Islamic and Oriental society in Anatolia.
Preservation and evolution of architectural styles despite the Mongol invasions in the 13th century.

Rise to Power: The Mamluks, originally slave warriors, established a sultanate in Egypt around 1250.
Cultural Authority: Controlled key Islamic cities such as Jerusalem, Mecca, and Medina.
Military and Social Structure: Mamluks transitioned from enslaved youth to military elite, often ascending to high positions, including sultans.
Historical Impact: Successfully repelled Mongol and Crusader invasions, marking the Mamluks as significant players in Middle Eastern politics.

Caravanserais: Essential for trade and cultural exchange, acting as hubs for travelers along trade routes.
- Concept: Derived from the Arabic terms for a group of travelers and a house/place of residence.
- Construction: Featured large courtyards with iwans, providing lodging for caravan traders.
Great Seljuk Architectural Features: Symmetrical four-iwan layout became prevalent, influencing later Islamic architectural developments.

Karatay Madrasa (1251): Notable for its unique enclosed plan and advanced decorative schemes.
Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hasan (1356-1363): A monumental example of Mamluk architecture, emphasizing vast spaces and decorative intricacy.
Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital: Eclectic and detailed structures, recognized as UNESCO heritage sites, showcasing detailed stone carvings.

What architectural styles influenced the Great Seljuks?
Compare the construction materials used by the Great Seljuks versus the Anatolian Seljuks.
Discuss the interactions between different cultures within Anatolian Seljuk architecture.