The Lion House

Viac o knihe

In 1522 Venice, alarming intelligence reveals that the wealthy Ottoman Sultan is poised for total war, with Rome in his sights. As Christendom remains divided, Suleyman the Magnificent wields immense power, influencing events from Istanbul's palace cloisters to the battlefields of central Europe and the coasts of North Africa. This narrative employs a unique style of eye-witness history to explore Suleyman's ascent as the most formidable figure of the sixteenth century. Through the perspectives of those close to him—a Greek slave turned Grand Vizier, a Venetian jewel dealer acting as an intermediary, and his cherished Russian consort—the story vividly depicts the fears and strategies of those in his orbit. Within just fifteen years, Suleyman ruled over 25 million people, extending his reach from Baghdad to Vienna, aided by the brilliant pirate commander Barbarossa, who placed more Christians under Muslim rule than ever before. Yet, the true essence of the drama unfolds in intimate settings—quiet rooms and hushed conversations—where the Sultan shares close bonds with his confidants and family. This account transcends a mere tale of superpowers clashing; it probes the profound implications of living in a world shaped by a select few who dictate the course of history.