Mediterranean Studies Project

The Ottoman Struggle for Dominance in the Mediterranean

The Ottoman Empire's efforts to establish dominance in the Mediterranean were a pivotal aspect of its expansion strategy during the 16th and 17th centuries. By controlling key territories such as Egypt, Syria, and the North African coast, the Ottomans sought to secure vital maritime trade routes and project their power across the region. The conquest of Constantinople in 1453 marked the beginning of their naval ambitions, which culminated in significant naval battles like the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Despite facing formidable adversaries such as the Spanish and Venetian fleets, the Ottomans managed to maintain a significant presence in the Mediterranean, ensuring the flow of wealth and resources into their empire while also spreading their cultural and political influence.