What do you know about harems: 6 facts that may surprise you

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Harems are not just places where women were kept for the entertainment of rulers. From the Ottoman Empire to Ancient Egypt, harems were a place where women could get an education, influence state affairs, and even become key figures in history.

Harem as an educational center

In the harems of the Ottoman Empire, concubines were taught literacy, theology, music, dance, etiquette, and oratory. It was like an elite school where women received a comprehensive education.

Even if they did not become favorites of the sultan, their knowledge allowed them to occupy high positions in the harem administration or marry influential dignitaries. Education in the harem was of such high quality that many women became teachers or mentors for others after their release.

Harems as centers of power

During the period of the “female sultanate” (1550-1656), the women of the harem of the Ottoman Empire had a huge influence on state affairs. Valide Sultan (the mother of the sultan) often led the harem and could interfere in political decisions.

For example, Hurrem Sultan (Roksolana) became the first concubine to officially marry Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and actively influenced foreign policy. Her letters to European monarchs testify to her diplomatic talent.

Eunuchs – key figures of the harem

The eunuchs who guarded the harems were not only guards, but also intermediaries between the worlds of men and women. They had access to both spheres and often became influential political figures.

For example, the chief black eunuch in the Ottoman Empire was considered the second most important person after the grand vizier. Eunuchs also controlled the finances of the harem and were responsible for the safety of its residents. Their role was so important that they often had their own palaces and servants.

Harems outside Islam

Although harems are often associated with Islamic countries, similar institutions existed in other cultures. For example, in ancient Greece, elite women lived in gynecologies, separate rooms where they were responsible for household chores and child-rearing.

In China, imperial harems were called “hougong” and were like cities with their own infrastructure. In ancient Egypt, pharaohs also had harems, where women could become wives or concubines.

In India, harems were part of the culture of the Mughal emperors and rajas. For example, Emperor Akbar the Great had a harem where thousands of women lived. In the Mughal harem, women not only entertained the ruler, but also participated in political intrigues. Many of them had their own estates and financial independence.

In Japan, there were institutions similar to harems, called “okuni”. These were groups of women who served the emperor or influential samurai. Women in the okuni received education and learned the art of communication.

There was a strict hierarchy and discipline in the harem. Each concubine received a salary, but for offenses they could be punished – from imprisonment in the basement to beating with a cane.

At the same time, women had access to luxury: beautiful clothes, jewelry and entertainment. Life in the harem was organized according to clear rules that regulated everything – from the daily routine to communication with other residents.

Dismissal from the harem

If a concubine did not attract the attention of the sultan for 9 years, she could apply for release. She was given a dowry, a house, and help finding a husband.

However, many women chose to remain in the harem for stability and comfort. Some concubines who were released became influential figures outside the harem, founding their own schools or charities.