Alparslan: The Great Seljuks (Alparslan: Büyük Selçuklu) is a Turkish historical action drama television series that premiered on TRT 1 on November 8, 2021. Produced by Akli Film and directed by Sedat İnci, the series serves as a prequel to the highly successful historical drama The Great Seljuks: Guardians of Justice (Uyanış: Büyük Selçuklu).
The drama chronicles the life, struggles, military campaigns, and rise of Sultan Alp Arslan, one of the most influential rulers of the Seljuk Empire. Through epic battles, political intrigue, and powerful storytelling, the series depicts the events that paved the way for the Turkish conquest of Anatolia and shaped the future of the region.
TV Series Details
| Information | Details |
| English Title | Alparslan: The Great Seljuks |
| Original Title | Alparslan: Büyük Selçuklu |
| Genre | Historical, Action, Adventure, Drama |
| Country | Turkey |
| Language | Turkish |
| Network | TRT 1 |
| Production Company | Akli Film |
| Director | Sedat İnci |
| Writers | Serdar Özönalan, Emre Konuk |
| Producer | Emre Konuk |
| Premiere Date | November 8, 2021 |
| Final Episode | November 6, 2023 |
| Seasons | 2 |
| Episodes | 61 |
| Filming Location | Riva, Istanbul, Turkey |
| Runtime | 120–150 Minutes |
Synopsis
Set in the 11th century, the series begins during a period when Anatolia was largely controlled by the Byzantine Empire. The story follows Alparslan, the courageous son of Çağrı Bey, who emerges as one of the Seljuk Empire’s most talented warriors and military commanders. Determined to protect his people from external threats and internal conspiracies, Alparslan dedicates his life to expanding the Seljuk state and ensuring its future.
As he faces Byzantine forces, rival rulers, and political schemes within the empire, Alparslan develops into a wise and powerful leader. Along his journey, he encounters Akça Hatun, a mysterious woman whose destiny becomes closely linked to his own. Their relationship unfolds against a backdrop of war, loyalty, sacrifice, and ambition. The series ultimately portrays Alparslan’s transformation from a fearless prince into Sultan Alp Arslan, the legendary ruler who opened the gates of Anatolia to the Turks and secured the Seljuk Empire’s place in history.
Main Cast
- Barış Arduç as Alparslan
- Fahriye Evcen as Akça Hatun
- Mehmet Özgür as Nizamülmülk
- Erdinç Gülener as Çağrı Bey
- Sarp Levendoğlu as Hassan Bey
- Kayra Zabcı as Seferiye Hatun
- Barış Bağcı as Tuğrul Bey
- Yurdaer Okur as Çağrı Bey (later seasons)
- Gizem Karaca as Evdokya
- Hande Subaşı as Akinay Hatun
Additional Cast
- Serhat Tutumluer
- Özgür Çevik
- Korel Cezayirli
- Ayşegül Ünsal
- Kutay Sungar
- Burak Şafak
- Onur Ayçelik
- Betül Çobanoğlu
- Esila Umut
- Ferit Kaya
- Fırat Topkorur
- Şahin Çelik
- Sinan Tuzcu
- Zeynep Özder
Character Details
Alparslan (Barış Arduç)
Alparslan is the central character of the series and one of the greatest rulers in Turkish history. Brave, intelligent, and determined, he possesses exceptional military skills and leadership qualities. Throughout the story, he faces numerous challenges and battles while working to strengthen the Seljuk Empire and protect his people. His rise to power ultimately leads him to become Sultan Alp Arslan, a legendary figure remembered for his historic victories and contributions to Turkish history.
Akça Hatun (Fahriye Evcen)
Akça Hatun is a mysterious young woman rescued by Alparslan during one of his missions. Although she becomes the love of his life, she carries secrets that influence political events and create challenges in their relationship. Her courage, intelligence, and loyalty make her one of the series’ most important characters.
Nizamülmülk (Mehmet Özgür)
Nizamülmülk is a wise statesman, scholar, and trusted advisor to the Seljuk rulers. Known for his intelligence and strategic thinking, he plays a crucial role in guiding Alparslan and helping maintain stability within the empire. His political expertise often proves as valuable as military strength.
Çağrı Bey (Erdinç Gülener)
Çağrı Bey is Alparslan’s father and one of the founding leaders of the Seljuk Empire. A respected commander and statesman, he provides guidance and support to his son while helping shape the future of the Seljuk state.
Tuğrul Bey (Barış Bağcı)
Tuğrul Bey is the Sultan of the Great Seljuk Empire and Alparslan’s uncle. His leadership and political decisions significantly influence the empire’s direction and Alparslan’s journey toward becoming a ruler.
Seferiye Hatun (Kayra Zabcı)
Seferiye Hatun is an influential noblewoman whose loyalty, strength, and determination contribute to the political and personal developments within the Seljuk court.
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Alparslan: The Great Seljuks (Alparslan: Büyük Selçuklu) is a remarkable historical drama that successfully brings one of the most important periods of Turkish and Islamic history to life. Featuring epic battles, compelling characters, political intrigue, and emotional storytelling, the series offers viewers an engaging portrayal of Sultan Alp Arslan’s rise to power and his role in shaping the future of Anatolia. Supported by strong performances, impressive production values, and historical themes, the drama has become one of the most popular Turkish historical series of recent years and a must-watch for fans of epic historical television.