Sultan Abdulaziz’s Europe Journey

Abstract

Except for the tradition of going on expeditions in the Ottoman Empire, the Ottoman Sultans did not visit any foreign countries. Sultan Abdülaziz was the first sultan to travel to Europe in Ottoman History. The idea of traveling was suggested by Grand Vizier Ali Pasha in order to strengthen bilateral relations with France and England, to observe Europe's successful reforms on site and to implement more effective reforms in the country. Shortly after, Grand Vizier Ali Pasha's suggestion was approved by the sultan, so it was decided to organize a trip to France, England and Austria in 1867. Within the scope of the trip, the Sultan first visited the King of France III. He participated in the International Exhibition held in Paris as Napoleon's guest of honor. After Paris, the second visit destination was England. After that, the sultan visited Belgium and Austria-Hungary, and then completed his trip on August 7, 1867, and returned home with his entourage. The sultan, who completed his trip and returned home, was welcomed with enthusiastic celebrations that lasted three days and three nights. This journey, which was completed in 47 days, had a great impact on the Ottoman Empire and the European States and had positive effects on both the Ottoman Empire and the European States. For the Ottoman Empire, the Ottoman-Western alliance that started with the Crimean War was strengthened, and determinations were made about what to do to ensure that the reforms initiated in the state were achieved. For Europe, a new phase has entered in relations with Europe. In addition, with the trip, Europeans had the opportunity to see the Ottoman Sultan, about whom they had heard legends, live for the first time.

This study aims to tell the story of the first trip of an Ottoman Sultan to Europe, the entourage that accompanied the Sultan during the trip, the events that took place during the trip, and the effects of the trip on Ottoman lands.