Ancient Ottoman land documents, including those pertaining to Jerusalem, safeguarded in present-day Turkey
In the heart of Ankara, Turkey, lies an archive that holds centuries of history, meticulously preserved for over 400 years. This treasure trove, known as the collection of land and endowment records in the archives of Türkiye's General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre, dates back to the Ottoman era.
The Ottoman state placed significant value on archival practices, ensuring the preservation of documents that would offer a glimpse into the past. This collection, spanning two distinct periods, from 1562 to 1597 and from 1865 to 1917, includes records from 26 countries once ruled by the Ottoman Empire.
The records in this collection cover a vast period, including the Ottoman era itself. Among these documents, a special focus is on the lands of Jerusalem, registered after the conquest of Palestine by Sultan Selim I, known as Yavuz Sultan Selim. The registration of the lands of Jerusalem in 1566 took place under Sultan Suleiman I.
This collection provides rare documentation of Jerusalem's ownership and foundation history, covering both private and charitable estates. The registers span nearly 170,000 records relating specifically to Jerusalem. The entries detail property rights of private owners as well as waqf holdings-religious endowments established under Islamic law.
One of the most significant finds in this collection is the 'Jerusalem Waqf Register', a special volume that has been published, making part of the historical record available in book form. This register, officially inscribed during the reign of Sultan Suleiman I in 1566, holds legal weight and validity.
Researchers from around the world can apply for access to study these documents, with the archive in Ankara open to international scholars and researchers. The Ottoman registers, with their rich details and historical significance, continue to offer invaluable insights into the past, challenging our understanding of the history of Jerusalem and the Ottoman Empire.
Recently, the collection has been a topic of discussion due to statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Turkish historian Unlu viewed these statements as a sign of weakness, underscoring the importance of preserving and studying these historical records.
In conclusion, the Ottoman land and endowment records offer a unique perspective into the history of Jerusalem, providing a valuable resource for researchers and historians alike. The preservation and study of these documents continue to contribute to our understanding of the past and the evolution of the city we know today.
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