Ottoman period gravestones in Anadoluhisari Cemetery

Tombstones are the most significant portable historical artifacts and documents that serve as evidence of a nation's existence, akin to land deeds. Anadoluhisarı, as a historical district in Istanbul, is home to numerous important relics from the Ottoman Empire period. The tombstones in this region, in particular, constitute an integral part of the historical and cultural heritage of the Ottoman Empire. In this study, 163 Ottoman tombstones located in Anadoluhisarı Cemetery in Istanbul/Beykoz were the subject of examination. These tombstones encompass the period between the developmental and final eras of the Ottoman Empire (circa 1100-1300 AH). The inscriptions on the tombstones in the cemetery are written in Ottoman Turkish and Arabic scripts, in styles including sülüs, talîk, nesih, tevkî, and rik'a. The study focuses not only on identifying personal information and physical characteristics found on the tombstones but also delves into the artistic aspects such as inscriptions, ornamentation, techniques, materials, and the determination of various decorative patterns and motifs employed. In Anadoluhisarı Cemetery, where tombstones reflecting the common artistic features of the period are found, most of them belong to the local population. Additionally, it is observed that individuals from the Köprülü family, who were in service to the family, are buried here. Furthermore, while some tombstones lack inscriptions and ornamentation, in the tomb where Hasan Bey and his son Arif Bey are buried along with their family, a horizontal rectangular inscription is present. In some gentlemen's tombstones, there are elaborate motifs related to their wives, reflecting an increase in their social status. The gathered information emphasizes the significant historical, cultural, artistic, and societal importance of the Ottoman era tombstones in Anadoluhisarı Cemetery. These tombstones not only reflect the cultural and societal changes of the Ottoman Empire but also help identify the needs for preservation and restoration. These findings can make substantial contributions to enhancing the touristic appeal of Anadoluhisarı Cemetery and promoting its cultural heritage.