Step into the pages of Ottoman history at Turbek, Hungary, the recently rediscovered archaeological site where Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent breathed his last in 1566. This remarkable location, investigated by Josh Gates on Expedition Unknown, holds the secrets of one of history's greatest rulers and the mystery of his missing heart. Visitors can explore the very ground where archaeological excavations have revealed stunning insights into this pivotal moment in European and Ottoman history.
Turbek was a small Ottoman settlement near the fortress of Szigetvár in southern Hungary, established in the 16th century to commemorate the death of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The site had been lost to history for centuries until recent archaeological investigations uncovered its location. Today, the area is marked by ongoing excavation work revealing the foundations of structures believed to be connected to Suleiman's final campaign. Josh Gates investigated Turbek as part of his search for the legendary burial site of the sultan's heart, which according to Ottoman chronicles was interred separately from his body before his remains were returned to Istanbul.
Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent dies during the siege of Szigetvár; according to tradition, his heart and internal organs are buried at the site that becomes Turbek
Turbek established as an Ottoman pilgrimage site commemorating Suleiman's death
Habsburg forces capture the region; Turbek gradually abandoned and location lost to history
Archaeological investigations begin to locate the lost town
Josh Gates investigates the rediscovered site for Expedition Unknown
The story of Turbek represents one of history's most intriguing archaeological mysteries. According to Ottoman chronicles, when Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent died in his tent during the siege of Szigetvár in 1566, his inner circle faced a crisis: his death could not be announced until his son could secure the throne in Istanbul. The sultan's physician reportedly removed and buried his heart and internal organs at the site, while his body was embalmed and returned to Constantinople. A town called Turbek—meaning "tomb" or "shrine" in Turkish—was subsequently established at the location to commemorate the sultan's death.
For centuries, historians debated whether Turbek ever truly existed or was merely legend. The site was abandoned after Habsburg forces recaptured the region in the late 17th century, and its exact location was forgotten. In recent years, however, Hungarian and Turkish archaeologists have made significant progress in locating structures they believe are connected to the historical Turbek. The work has involved combining Ottoman maps and documents with modern archaeological survey techniques.
The question of whether Suleiman's heart remains buried at the site continues to intrigue researchers. The practice of separating the heart for burial was not uncommon in that era, particularly when a ruler died far from home. However, the exact location of any burial within the Turbek complex remains uncertain, and archaeological investigation is ongoing.
Gates' investigation explored the newly uncovered site and examined the historical evidence for the heart's burial. The episode highlighted how modern archaeology is slowly revealing a location that had been lost for over three centuries, though definitive proof of the heart's location has remained elusive. The work at Turbek demonstrates how historical texts, when combined with archaeological evidence, can sometimes recover forgotten places that blur the line between history and legend.
Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent ruled the Ottoman Empire for 46 years, making him one of the longest-reigning sultans in Ottoman history.
The siege of Szigetvár in 1566 lasted 33 days and became legendary in both Ottoman and Hungarian history for the fierce resistance of the fortress defenders.
Ottoman sources claim that Suleiman's death was kept secret for weeks using elaborate deception, including daily audiences where the grand vizier spoke for the supposedly ill sultan.
The rediscovery of Turbek involved examining 16th-century Ottoman maps and combining them with modern geophysical surveys to identify buried structures.
The Turbek archaeological site is located near the town of Szigetvár in southern Hungary, where ongoing excavation work continues. Access to the active archaeological site may be restricted depending on current research activities, and visitors should check with local authorities or the Szigetvár tourism office before planning a visit. The nearby Szigetvár fortress and castle are accessible to tourists and provide historical context for the Ottoman siege.
Pécs, approximately 35 kilometers to the southeast, is the nearest major city.
Spring through early fall (May to September) offers the most pleasant weather for visiting the region. Summer months can be warm but are ideal for exploring both the archaeological area and the historic fortress of Szigetvár.
Istanbul
Istanbul was the capital of the Ottoman Empire where Suleiman's body was returned and entombed after his death at Szigetvár.
Budapest Mountain Forests
Budapest and the surrounding Hungarian regions share connected history with the Ottoman period and the campaigns that led to Suleiman's final siege.
Kingdom of Kush Pyramid Tombs
The Kingdom of Kush sites represent another investigation of lost royal burial locations where the heart or organs were treated separately from the body in ancient funerary practices.
Best time to visit: Visit during late spring through early fall (May-September) when weather conditions are ideal for exploring the archaeological site and nearby historical attractions.
Travel tip: Combine your visit with nearby Szigetvár castle and museum to fully understand the historical context of the 1566 siege and Suleiman's final campaign.