On September 6, 2025, Prince Eduard von Anhalt welcomed Ayberk Efendi to the historic halls of Schloss Ballenstedt. The meeting brought together two old traditions, Ottoman Sufi spirituality and the centuries-old lineage of the House of Anhalt, in an atmosphere of dialogue and mutual respect.
In the castle’s elegant rooms, Ayberk Efendi reflected on the values that link our spiritual heritage with European cultural history. He spoke of the Ottoman Empire’s long tradition of patronage of the arts, scientific inquiry and philosophical exchange, fields in which the House of Anhalt has also left its mark. The conversation showed how both legacies cherish beauty, knowledge and compassion, and it ended with the shared hope that future meetings will deepen this friendship across borders.
If this encounter inspires you, join our ongoing conversations and explore more about Ottoman heritage. Visit our Community page to stay connected, or browse the Royal Ottoman Library for deeper insight into our shared history.
