Sultanate of Rum

The Sultanate of Rum was a medieval Muslim state in Anatolia, established by Seljuk Turks in the 11th century after their victory at the Battle of Manzikert. It served as a bridge between the Byzantine Empire and the emerging Turkish powers, featuring a blend of Persian, Turkish, and Arab cultures. The sultanate played a key role in shaping Turkish identity and Islamic influence in the region until it declined in the 13th century, eventually being replaced by smaller Turkish principalities. Its legacy includes contributions to art, architecture, and the spread of Islam in Anatolia.