Abstract:

This article is concerned with three deeds of trust (vakfiyes) and a boundary deed (limit) drawn up by Ayas Paşa, who served as the Grand Vezir of Kanûnî Sultan Suleyman in the years 1536-1539. With this objective in mind, the article provides information extracted from the previously unstudied extant copies of Ayas Paşa’s deeds of trust (vakfiyes) which have been discovered in various archives. By focusing on these deeds of trust (which are written in Arabic), the article seeks to examine the specific charitable works endowed by Ayas Paşa, while also discussing the general framework of such pious endowment charters. The properties and goods bequeathed by Ayas Pasha to his pious foundations, and their locations throughout the Ottoman politi are also discussed. In addition, the staff of his pious foundations, their duties and their salaries are among the important points mentioned in the works of trust. The article also covers data that would enable readers to gain an idea about the extent of Ayas Paşa’s wealth, his investments, and overall economic importance, as they are reflected in his deeds of trust (vakfiyes)

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