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Writer's pictureBerlin Rickshaw

The first Ottoman visit to Berlin took place in 1764, during the reign of Frederick the Great.

The Ottoman Empire, one of the most powerful empires in history, significantly impacted Europe during its reign. One of the most exciting aspects of Ottoman history is the visits to European countries, including Berlin. These visits were significant regarding diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.

The first Ottoman visit to Berlin took place in 1764, during the reign of Frederick the Great. The visit was significant as it was the first time an Ottoman delegation had visited Prussia, one of the most important European countries. The Ottoman delegation was led by the Ottoman ambassador to France, Yirmisekiz Mehmed Çelebi.

The Ottoman delegation arrived in Berlin on September 28, 1764, and was received with great fanfare. The board was welcomed by Frederick the Great himself, who was known for his interest in foreign cultures and languages. The Ottoman ambassador, Yirmisekiz Mehmed Çelebi, was impressed by Frederick the Great's palace, one of Europe's most magnificent buildings at the time.

During the visit, the Ottoman delegation and Frederick the Great discussed various topics, including diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. The Ottomans were interested in allying with Prussia, while Frederick the Great was keen to establish a strong trading relationship with the Ottomans. The two sides also discussed the possibility of cultural exchange, with Frederick the Great expressing his admiration for Ottoman art and architecture. Overall, the first Ottoman visit to Berlin was a success. The delegation returned to Istanbul with a positive impression of Prussia and its ruler, while Frederick the Great was impressed by the Ottomans' diplomatic skills and cultural achievements. The visit laid the groundwork for future diplomatic and economic relations between the Ottoman Empire and Prussia. In the years that followed, Ottoman delegations continued to visit Berlin and other European capitals, cementing the empire's status as a significant player on the world stage. These visits were not without their challenges, however. The Ottomans faced discrimination and prejudice in some countries, particularly in countries where most of the population was Christian. Despite this, the Ottomans persisted in building relationships with European powers, recognizing the benefits of diplomacy and trade. The Ottoman visits to Berlin also had an impact on the city itself. Ottoman art and architecture became fashionable in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, and this influence can be seen in some of the buildings in Berlin. For example, the Alte Nationalgalerie, built in the 19th century, features elements of Ottoman architecture in its design. Today, the legacy of the Ottoman visits to Berlin can still be seen in the city's cultural landscape. Turkish and Middle Eastern communities have a strong presence in Berlin, and numerous Turkish restaurants, markets, and cultural centres are throughout the city. The Ottomans' influence can also be seen in Berlin's architecture, particularly in the city's many neo-Moorish buildings.

In conclusion, the first Ottoman visit to Berlin in 1764 was significant. The event in the history of both the Ottoman Empire and Prussia. It paved the way for diplomatic and economic relations between the two powers and impacted Berlin's cultural and architectural landscape. The visit was a testament to the power of diplomacy and cultural exchange in building bridges between different nations and cultures.

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