The new historical series Kurulus Orhan, broadcast on ATV, has become one of Turkey’s most ambitious productions — continuing the legacy of Kurulus Osman. With Mert Yazıcıoğlu portraying the legendary Orhan Gazi, the series tells the story of the Ottoman Empire’s second ruler, his rise to power, and the foundations he built for an empire that would last centuries. Know Who was orhan Ghazi?
Who Was Orhan Gazi?
Orhan Gazi, also known as Orhan Bey, was the son of Osman Gazi and Malhun Hatun, born around 1280/1281. Known for his fair hair, tall stature, blue eyes, and strong sense of justice, Orhan was a courageous leader who ruled from 1324 to 1362. His reign marked the true beginning of Ottoman statehood, combining military victories with strong governance.
After his father’s death, he became the Bey of the Ottomans in 1326 and continued his father’s mission of expanding and organizing the young state. Who Was Orhan Gazi?
⚔️ Major Conquests of Orhan Gazi
Orhan Gazi led a series of successful campaigns that defined the early Ottoman expansion. His victories strengthened the empire’s foothold in northwestern Anatolia and opened the path to Europe.
Key Conquests During His Reign:
- 1321 – Mudanya
- 1326 – Bursa (which became the new Ottoman capital)
- 1329 – İznik (Nicaea)
- 1331 – Taraklı, Mudurnu, Göynük
- 1333 – Gemlik
- 1337 – İzmit (Nicomedia)
The Battle of Pelekanon (Palekanon) against the Byzantine Empire marked a turning point, as it cleared the way toward Constantinople (Istanbul).
🏛️ Reforms and Achievements
Orhan Gazi was more than a conqueror; he was a reformer and institution builder. Many of the core systems of the Ottoman state were founded during his rule.
- Established the first Ottoman council (Divan-ı Hümayun)
- Appointed the first Grand Vizier
- Formed the first regular army (Yaya and Müsellem)
- Founded the first madrasa for Islamic education
- Introduced the first Ottoman coin and budget system
- Built the first naval shipyard in Karamürsel
- Oversaw the first bazaar (bedesten) and royal palace
By the end of his reign, Orhan had expanded Ottoman lands from 16,000 km² to nearly 100,000 km², leaving a strong foundation for his successor, Murad I.
💍 Orhan Gazi’s Wives and Family
Orhan’s first wife was Nilüfer Hatun (originally Holofira), the daughter of the Yarhisar governor. After marrying Orhan, she embraced Islam and became a symbol of devotion and piety. Several landmarks in Bursa are still dedicated to her memory.
He also married Asporça Hatun, Theodora Hatun, and Eftandise Hatun.
His children included:
- Süleyman Paşa
- Şehzade Murad (later Murad I)
- Şehzade İbrahim
- Şehzade Halil
- Şehzade Kasım
- Şehzade Eyüp
- Fatma Hatun
- Hatice Hatun
⚰️ Death and Tomb of Orhan Gazi
Orhan Gazi passed away in 1362, reportedly due to the plague in Bursa. His tomb, Orhangazi Türbesi, is located in Tophane Park, across from Osman Gazi’s tomb. The mausoleum stands on the remains of the ancient Sainte Elie Monastery, symbolizing the transformation of Byzantine lands into the Ottoman heartland.Who Was Orhan Ghazi?
🎬 Kurulus Orhan In English Subtitles – A Global Phenomenon
The release of Kurulus Orhan In English Subtitles allows global audiences to witness the formation of the Ottoman state through modern storytelling. Mert Yazıcıoğlu’s portrayal of Orhan Gazi captures his intelligence, compassion, and leadership — blending fact with drama to keep history alive for a new generation.
The series, produced by ATV, has already been licensed in several countries, following the worldwide success of Kurulus Osman.
🌍 Legacy of Orhan Gazi
Orhan Gazi’s era set the political, military, and administrative blueprint for centuries of Ottoman rule. His wisdom, courage, and dedication to justice continue to inspire historians and audiences alike.
Through Kurulus Orhan In English Subtitles, his story reaches beyond borders — reminding viewers how one man’s vision shaped the destiny of an empire.
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Who was Orhan Gazi?
Orhan Gazi was the son of Osman Gazi and the second ruler of the Ottoman Beylik, known for his military victories and administrative reforms.
When did Orhan Gazi rule?
He ruled from 1324 to 1362, expanding the Ottoman territory from 16,000 km² to nearly 100,000 km².
Who plays Orhan Gazi in Kurulus Orhan?
The role of Orhan Gazi is portrayed by Turkish actor Mert Yazıcıoğlu in ATV’s historical drama Kurulus Orhan.
Where is Orhan Gazi buried?
Orhan Gazi is buried in Tophane Park, Bursa, opposite his father Osman Gazi’s tomb.
