The Turkish Maarif Foundation has introduced a new poetry book, Poems, Roses, Lights, in Hungary. The book, created to highlight the Suleiman the Magnificent Mosque at Zigetvar Castle and showcase the poetry of Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, was presented during an event held in Hungary.
Key figures at the launch included the foundation’s president, Birol Akgün, Zigetvar Mayor Vass Peter, Turkey’s Ambassador to Budapest Gülşen Karanis Ekşioğlu, Trabzon Mayor Ahmet Metin Genç, along with numerous art enthusiasts.
During the event, Akgün spoke about the significance of Turkish-Hungarian relations, emphasizing their rich cultural and educational history. He noted, “Historical interactions are not limited to conflict. Exchanges between nations also foster cultural and artistic growth. The mosque we are in is a symbol of this, serving as an architectural marvel.”
He also highlighted the foundation’s global presence, with schools in 54 countries and over 53,000 students. Akgün explained that supporting the publication of Poems, Roses, Lights aligns with the foundation’s cultural goals.
Akgün further remarked that while Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent is primarily remembered as a statesman, he was also a prominent poet of his era. The book, he said, aims to introduce his poetic legacy to Turkish and Hungarian audiences.
The mosque itself, Akgün explained, was built using unique architectural techniques. “Buildings, like people, have secrets. This masterpiece, designed by the great architect Sinan, incorporates hidden lighting methods and symbolic messages. We are only beginning to uncover these mysteries,” he added.
The book is inspired by significant dates, such as September 8, when light enters the mosque’s center on the anniversary of the castle’s conquest. Other notable elements include the light reflections on the mosque’s arch on Suleiman’s birthday and the teardrop-shaped windows designed by architect Sinan.
Poems, Roses, Lights is a bilingual publication, featuring both Turkish and Hungarian versions of 10 poems written by Suleiman the Magnificent under the pen name “Muhibbi.” The book also includes an essay by Hungarian scholars, offering insights into the mosque’s unique light architecture.
Published as part of the “2024 Turkish-Hungarian Cultural Year” celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Türkiye-Hungary Friendship Agreement, the book aims to strengthen the cultural ties between the two nations. It highlights Suleiman’s passion for art and knowledge, promoting the shared heritage of Türkiye and Hungary.
In the book’s preface, Akgün points out that during his reign, Suleiman the Magnificent valued scholars and artists highly. His selected poems have been translated from Turkish into Hungarian for the benefit of visitors, encouraging deeper cultural understanding between the two countries.
The preface concludes by stressing the importance of initiatives like this to strengthen cultural connections. It invites Hungarians, who share historical bonds with Türkiye, to explore Turkish history and culture more deeply.