Sultan Abdul Hamid performs his public prayers at the Hamidieh Mosque. This beautiful mosque is located inside the imperial park, close to a tall iron fence. The fence allows people on the street to see those entering or leaving the mosque.
Across the road from the mosque is an open field with a small hill. This area was originally meant for cavalry training, but every Friday it fills with carriages carrying people who hope to catch a glimpse of the Sultan. They are not allowed to get any closer, so they wait there to watch from a distance Carriages from the Harem.
Selamlik Ceremonies Used to Be More Open
In the past, the Selamlik ceremony was more open to the public. There was a wooden pavilion, like a grandstand, where visitors, diplomats, and foreign guests could watch the Sultan’s arrival. The structure was usually full of spectators.
However, after the assassinations of King Humbert of Italy and U.S. President McKinley, the pavilion was torn down for security reasons. Since then, no public invitations are given out. Now, only in rare cases, if an ambassador personally requests it, the Sultan may allow trusted foreign guests to attend.
Restricted Viewing and Strict Security
Today, the ceremony can only be seen from certain safe spots. Some guests are allowed to watch from the windows or rooftop of a nearby palace. No one else is allowed inside the mosque grounds unless they are government officials, military officers, or registered pilgrims.
Ordinary people must be content with viewing through the iron bars of the fence or watching from nearby hills using binoculars or field glasses.
Pilgrims Arriving for the Holy Journey
We were in Constantinople during the pilgrim season. Faithful Muslims from Russia, other nearby countries, and throughout the Ottoman Empire were arriving every day. These pilgrims stop in Constantinople on their way to Mecca. They come to show respect to the Sultan, who is the visible head of their religion, and to the Sheik-ul-Islam, who manages religious matters.
Pilgrims who are properly identified and approved are sometimes allowed to attend the Selamlik. However, the police are very careful to check every visitor. They work hard to make sure no one dangerous, such as an assassin disguised as a pilgrim, can enter daily tour sofia.
A Special Greeting for the Sultan
The pilgrims wait along the road where the Sultan’s carriage passes. As he approaches, they shout a unique cry. This sound is more like a mournful wail than a joyful cheer. It is meant to show deep respect and devotion, not excitement.
