The Seljuks of Rum refers to a powerful Turkish dynasty that ruled over the Sultanate of Rum, located in what is now modern-day Turkey, from the 11th to the 13th centuries. The term "Seljuks" refers to an influential Turkic tribe from Central Asia, while "Rum" is the medieval Islamic name for the Eastern Roman Empire, which included Anatolia or Asia Minor.
The Seljuks of Rum were descendants of the Seljuk Turks who had migrated from Central Asia to the Middle East. Under the leadership of their founder, Suleiman ibn Qutalmish, they established the Sultanate of Rum in 1077, following the defeat of the Byzantine Empire at the Battle of Manzikert. This marked the beginning of Seljuk dominance in the region.
During their reign, the Seljuks of Rum played a significant role in spreading Islamic culture and architecture throughout Anatolia. They constructed numerous impressive buildings, including mosques, madrasas (educational institutions), caravanserais (roadside inns), and palaces. These structures showcased distinctive Seljuk architectural features such as intricate geometric patterns, towering minarets, and ornate floral motifs.
The Seljuks of Rum also had a major impact on trade and commerce, as they established a well-organized network of trade routes connecting Europe and Asia. They fostered economic growth by providing a safe environment for merchants and stimulating the production of goods through incentivized trade policies.
The Seljuks of Rum faced numerous challenges, especially from Crusaders and Mongol invasions, which led to their eventual decline. By the 13th century, their power waned, and their territories were gradually absorbed by the emerging Turkish beyliks (principalities).
