Explore the Legacy of Kuruluş Orhan

Sultan Orhan, the illustrious son of Osman Ghazi (Osman I), became the second ruler of the Ottoman dynasty in 1324. His leadership played a decisive role in shaping the destiny of the early Ottoman state. Unlike his father, who laid the foundation of a small frontier principality, Orhan successfully transformed it into a rising regional power.

One of his greatest achievements was the conquest of Bursa, a strategic Byzantine city that later became the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. By establishing Bursa as the administrative and cultural hub, Orhan introduced crucial military, financial, and administrative institutions that provided long-term stability and growth to the empire.

Under Orhan’s reign, the Ottomans expanded their influence beyond Anatolia, making significant advances into the Balkans. His rule marked the true transition of the Ottoman beylik from a tribal confederation into a structured and ambitious state. Sultan Orhan’s vision, reforms, and conquests not only strengthened his dynasty but also laid the foundation for the future greatness of the Ottoman Empire.