In addition to the regular guards, one officer sits at each corner of the corridor around the Sultan’s room. From their positions, they can see in both directions. To prevent secret plots or conspiracies, these guards are chosen in a special way. Each night, junior officers from different army regiments near the palace are selected by drawing lots. This happens only moments before they go on duty, so no one knows in advance who will be chosen.
Each guard serves for four hours, starting at sunset and ending at sunrise. The Sultan is such a light sleeper that he wakes up every time the guards change shifts The Sultan’s Sleeping Habits.
A Love for Music and Entertainment
The Sultan enjoys music very much. When he feels restless, his orchestra must play for him through the night. The orchestra is led by Dussap Pasha. They continue playing until the Sultan sends a message to stop.
Besides music, the Sultan also enjoys theater and vaudeville shows. These performances help him forget his constant fears and worries. There is a theater inside the palace with two acting groups. One group is made up of Turkish performers, and the other includes French and Italian artists.
Special Performances for the Sultan
Foreign actresses and opera singers visiting Constantinople are always eager to perform for the Sultan. Not only do they receive good payment from the palace’s master of ceremonies, but if the Sultan likes their performance, he often rewards them with expensive jewels sofia day trip.
Only a few people are allowed to attend these shows. Usually, only members of the royal family can watch. If the Sultan invites an ambassador to a performance, it is seen as a great honor and a sign of special favor.
Simple Clothing, Rich Jewels
Although the Sultan is very powerful, his clothing is simple. He wears a basic military uniform and a campaign cloak, like regular army officers. However, his jewels are some of the most valuable in all of Europe.
When he needs new clothes, his foster brother, Ismet Bey, serves as the model for the tailor. Ismet Bey and the Sultan are almost the same size, so this makes the job easier.
A Life of Caution and Luxury
Even with great wealth and comfort, the Sultan lives with fear and careful routines. He surrounds himself with guards, music, and trusted people. Yet, behind the luxury is a man always watching for danger and seeking comfort in art and loyalty.
