👑 Roxelana | Hürrem Sultan

👑 "Roxelana, also known as Hürrem Sultan, was the most important wife and legal consort of Ottoman Sultan Süleyman. She is considered one of the most powerful and influential women in Ottoman history. She was born in Ruthenia, in present-day Rohatyn, Ukraine. Born as the daughter of a Ruthenian Orthodox priest, she was captured by Crimean Tatars and brought to Istanbul. After entering the Imperial Harem, her name was changed to Hürrem, and she rose to become one of Süleyman's favorites. 🏰

🌟 Experiencing an extraordinary rise from being a slave in the harem to becoming Süleyman's legal wife, Hürrem became one of his most trusted advisors and actively participated in state affairs. During Süleyman's reign, she was known for her intervention in state affairs. She wrote diplomatic letters, patronized important public works, and played an influential role in politics. While Hürrem is considered one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history, she is also associated with some controversial events. 📜

💼 Hürrem's influence was felt not only in Ottoman society but also in international relations. Two letters from Süleyman to the Polish King Sigismund II Augustus reflect the peaceful relations between the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Poland. Hürrem also engaged in charitable work; she supported many charitable institutions from Mecca to Jerusalem and had many public buildings constructed. 🕌

⚰️ Hürrem, who died on April 15, 1558, holds an important place in Ottoman history and has been the subject of many artworks both in modern Turkey and in the West. Hürrem's appearance was imagined by male European artists outside the harem, and many Renaissance paintings depict her." 🎨