eyalet

The Ottoman Empire was divided into administrative units called eyalets (or pashaliks). These were the primary territorial divisions of the empire for much of its history. Each eyalet was governed by a beylerbeyi (or wali), who was appointed by the sultan and held considerable authority over military, administrative, and judicial matters within his province. The eyalet system was a key component of the Ottoman administrative structure, enabling the empire to manage its vast territories and diverse populations. The administration of these provinces evolved over time, with reforms aimed at centralizing power and improving efficiency.12