Giant İnhabitants of the Ottoman Empire: Elephants; [Osmanlı Devleti’nin Dev Sakinleri: Filler]

Elephants have always been a focus of attention for humanity, thanks to both their physical structure and their potential strength. This attractive effect of elephants also made itself felt in the Ottoman Empire, and elephants took their place in Ottoman property from the early periods of the state. The elephants sent from the “Eastern” world to the Ottoman sultans within the scope of diplomatic relations now became permanent residents of the state. In fact, within the Ottoman Empire, positions such as chief elephant keeper and filbân (elephant caretaker) were created to care for and train elephants. The filbâns, whose numbers changed from time to time, worked under Mîrâhûr in the Ottoman state organization. The filbâns, who were paid salaries as ulufe, also routinely received allowances for the needs of the elephants. Shelters were provided for elephants in suitable areas in Istanbul. Elephants were not only found in Istanbul, but also in provincial cities, especially in Edirne. Elephants, who contributed to the authority and charismatic personality of the Sultan, were kept in the Ottoman Empire to serve different purposes. As a matter of fact, elephants appeared as important figures in the reception of ambassadors, festivals, wars and diplomatic relations between states. In this context, the subjects of this study were the actions that took place in the social, military and political life of the Ottoman Empire.