Barbarossa: Sword of the Mediterranean (Barbaroslar: Akdeniz’in Kilici) is a Turkish historical action drama that tells the legendary story of the Barbarossa brothers, who became some of the most powerful naval leaders in Ottoman history. The series follows the lives of Ishak, Oruc, Hizir, and Ilyas as they face dangerous enemies, protect their people, and fight for control of the Mediterranean Sea. With its epic battles, historical setting, and strong characters, the drama offers an exciting look at one of the most important periods in Ottoman naval history.
TV Series Details
| Information | Details |
| Original Title | Barbaroslar: Akdeniz’in Kilici |
| English Title | Barbarossa: Sword of the Mediterranean |
| Genre | Historical, Action |
| Broadcast Network | TRT 1 |
| Broadcast Period | September 16, 2021 – May 26, 2022 |
| Production Company | ES Film |
| Director | Dogan Umit Karaca |
| Screenwriters | Mustafa Burak Dogu, Ibrahim Ethem Arslan, Tuba Kaya |
| Filming Locations | Lesbos (Midilli), Antalya, Turkey |
| Episodes | 32 |
| Country | Turkey |
| Language | Turkish |
Synopsis
The story centers on four brothers: Ishak, Oruc, Hizir, and Ilyas. While Ishak prefers a peaceful life as a trader and potter, his brothers are drawn to the sea and adventure. Oruc becomes a fearless sailor, while Ilyas follows him on dangerous voyages. Hizir initially works as a merchant to satisfy his older brother’s wishes but cannot ignore his passion for the sea.
As the brothers become involved in political conflicts, secret missions, and battles across the Mediterranean, they encounter powerful enemies who seek revenge and control. Hizir’s journey eventually leads him toward becoming the famous Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha, one of the greatest admirals in Ottoman history. The series combines historical events with personal struggles, love stories, and epic naval adventures.
Main Cast
| Actor | Character |
| Engin Altan Duzyatan | Oruc Reis |
| Ulas Tuna Astepe | Hizir Reis (Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha) |
| Yetkin Dikinciler | Ishak Reis |
| Caner Topcu | Ilyas Reis |
| Yigit Ozsener | Pietro |
| Pelin Akil | Isabel |
| Melis Babadag | Zeynep |
| Gulcan Arslan | Despina |
| Devrim Evin | Antoine |
| Ismail Filiz | Kilicoglu (Sahin Bey) |
Additional Cast
| Actor | Character |
| Bahadir Yenisehirlioglu | Dervis |
| Batuhan Bayar | Niko |
| Murat Gocmez | Horozcu |
| Serpil Ozcan | Asiye |
| Doruk Nalbantoglu | Gulletopuk |
| Tolga Iskit | Cafer |
| Gokhan Gencebay | Bulbul |
| Eren Demirbas | Muneccim |
| Tolga Akkaya | Yareli Hasan |
| Nezir Cinarli | Hayrabay |
| Yigitcan Ozyigit | Meczup |
Character Details
Oruc Reis (Engin Altan Duzyatan)
Oruc Reis is one of the famous Barbarossa brothers. He is brave, intelligent, and highly respected by his crew. His love for the sea often puts him at odds with his older brother Ishak. Due to his red beard, he earns the nickname Barbarossa, meaning “Red Beard.” He later becomes the governor of Algiers and an important admiral of the Ottoman Empire.
Hizir Reis / Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha (Ulas Tuna Astepe)
Hizir Reis is a skilled sailor who initially works as a merchant. Although he tries to live a peaceful life, his passion for the sea leads him to great adventures. He later earns the title Hayreddin and becomes one of the most successful admirals in Ottoman history, helping establish Ottoman dominance in the Mediterranean.
Ishak Reis (Yetkin Dikinciler)
Ishak Reis is the eldest brother. He works as a potter and trader and wants his family to live a safe and peaceful life. He often tries to keep his younger brothers away from danger and conflict.
Ilyas Reis (Caner Topcu)
Ilyas is the youngest Barbarossa brother. He joins Oruc on his sea voyages and learns the skills needed to become a successful sailor. He is known for his kind heart and loyalty to his family.
Pietro (Yigit Ozsener)
Pietro is one of the main villains of the series. He is ambitious, ruthless, and determined to defeat the Barbarossa brothers. He uses disguises and clever strategies to achieve his goals.
Isabel (Pelin Akil)
Isabel is a beautiful young woman who helps run her father’s inn. She develops feelings for Oruc Reis and becomes involved in his adventures through their business relationship.
Despina (Gulcan Arslan)
Despina is the devoted wife of Oruc Reis. She comes from a wealthy merchant family and sacrifices much to be with the man she loves. Despite facing hardships, she remains loyal and supportive.
Zeynep (Melis Babadag)
Zeynep is a compassionate healer who runs an orphanage and cares for children in need. She meets Hizir Reis during his journey and eventually falls in love with him.
Antoine (Devrim Evin)
Antoine becomes one of the brothers’ most dangerous enemies after the death of his brother. Driven by revenge, he dedicates himself to destroying the Barbarossa brothers and their plans.
Dervis (Bahadir Yenisehirlioglu)
Dervis serves as Hizir Reis’s mentor and spiritual guide. His wisdom and guidance help shape Hizir’s journey and destiny.
Read: Aziz TV Series.
Barbarossa: Sword of the Mediterranean is a thrilling historical drama that brings the legendary story of the Barbarossa brothers to life. Through epic sea battles, political struggles, family bonds, and powerful character development, the series showcases the rise of some of the Ottoman Empire’s greatest naval heroes. For viewers who enjoy historical action dramas filled with adventure and real historical figures, this series offers an engaging and memorable experience.