Ottoman bird palaces have been home to many bird species for five centuries

These structures, which emerged as the product of an aesthetic concept in both architectural and humanitarian terms, are also seen as a symbol of the compassion shown to living creatures in Ottoman civilization.

Bird palaces, built to provide shelter for many bird species such as sparrows, pigeons, and starlings, were constructed on parts of architectural works that received sunlight and were protected from the wind.

Historian and author Mehmet Dilbaz explained the history of Ottoman bird palaces, their purpose, their importance from the past to the present, and how these works influenced other societies.

'AT THE FOUNDATION OF THE STORY...'

Stating that bird palaces in the Ottoman Empire were actually the products of a tradition and foundation culture linked to Islam, Dilbaz said, "At the foundation of the story is the need for the book of deeds not to close. As stated in a famous hadith of the Prophet in the Islamic religion, some things that can save people after they die are knowledge, a righteous child, and a beautiful work."

Dilbaz stated that during the periods when Turkish-Islamic art reached its peak, the awareness of making utility sustainable increased in Ottoman society, and that many foundations were established for the sustainability of social life.

'IT IS POSSIBLE TO SEE BIRD HOUSES'

Pointing out that important work was done in the past regarding the feeding and sheltering of stray animals, Dilbaz provided the following information:

"God has some voiceless creatures. Some structures were conceived for birds to take shelter, especially in the winter months. It is not known exactly when the first bird house was built in Istanbul. Because everyone knows the unfortunate history of Istanbul; one earthquake, two fires...

Therefore, unfortunately, none of the wooden bird houses have survived to the present day. But it is possible to see bird houses carved from stone or marble. It is possible to come across bird houses built in different parts of the city starting from the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. The aesthetic art of the Ottomans has actually carried many things to the present day."

'OUR ANCESTORS HAD AESTHETIC TASTE'

Pointing out that bird houses were generally made of brick or stone, but that the first examples were wooden, Dilbaz assessed, "Ottoman bird palaces were an aesthetic taste of which we have lost many details today. If our ancestors had built these palaces only with the understanding that a bird should enter, stay here in summer and winter, lay its eggs, or protect itself from the cold, snow, and rain, they would have just built four walls.

Because our ancestors possessed aesthetic taste, they built these bird houses with grace and detail in accordance with the architectural elements of the period in which they were built. Therefore, the bird houses that have survived to the present day clearly show the architectural and aesthetic taste of the period in which they were built."

News Source: AA