Conqueror of Jerusalem: Saladin (Series)

The Conqueror of Jerusalem: Saladin is a Turkish television series that premiered on TRT 1 on November 13, 2023, blending historical, fictional, action, and drama genres. Produced by Akli Film, the series chronicles the life of Saladin Ayyubi, founder of the Ayyubid Dynasty and the leader who liberated Jerusalem from Crusader occupation. Directed by Serdar Özönalan and Sedat İnci, with a screenplay written by İsa Yıldız and Serdar Özönalan, the series is also available on the Tabii platform. Starring Uğur Güneş in the lead role, the production draws attention for its epic narrative, grand battle scenes, and emphasis on historical detail.

Plot

The Conqueror of Jerusalem: Saladin is set in the 12th century during a period when Crusader invasions devastated the Islamic world. Unity and order among Muslims had fractured, and many Islamic territories including Jerusalem had fallen into Crusader hands. The series follows Saladin Ayyubi as he leads the frontier warriors under the protection of the Zengid Dynasty in his struggle against the Crusaders. Saladin is a warrior shaped by the ideal of “justice for the world, freedom for Jerusalem.” The story begins with the siege of Ascalon by the Knights Templar. The fall of Ascalon would strengthen the Crusaders and threaten Zengid territories. However, due to longstanding hostility between the people of Ascalon and the Zengids, the state council rejects Saladin’s proposal to offer aid. Undeterred, Saladin defies the council’s decision and marches to assist the people of Ascalon, thus beginning his legendary journey. The series portrays Saladin’s relentless campaign to liberate Jerusalem from 88 years of Crusader occupation, alongside political intrigues and personal sacrifices.

A Scene from The Conqueror of Jerusalem: Saladin (TRT1)

Themes

The series centers on themes of justice, courage, leadership, faith, and unity. Saladin Ayyubi’s resistance against the Crusaders is portrayed not merely as a military victory but as an effort to rebuild the unity of the Islamic world. The series highlights Saladin’s commitment to justice and tolerance, emphasizing his attempts to build bridges between different cultures. Betrayal, loyalty, and family bonds add emotional depth to the narrative. Saladin’s strategic intellect and spiritual dimension are explored through his relationships with characters such as Sultan Nureddin Zengi and Şemse. By blending historical events with fictional elements, the series elevates both individual heroism and collective solidarity. However, some viewer reviews have noted that the fictional elements diverge from historical facts and that the battle scenes are exaggerated.

Production Process

The series was produced by Akli Film and premiered on TRT 1 on November 13, 2023. Filming took place on a specially constructed film set in Gebze, Kocaeli, designed with decor reflecting Ottoman and Seljuk architecture and featuring expansive areas for battle sequences. Producer Emre Konuk stated that the series was crafted to present a historical narrative to a modern audience. The production is notable for its more than 20,000 costumes and intricate set designs. The filming of the first episode lasted 45 days and involved over 300 extras. The series was initially planned as a Turkish-Pakistani co-production and a sequel to Alparslan: Great Seljuk, but ultimately became a fully Turkish production. The music was composed by Alpay Göltekin and Zeynep Alasya.

Characters and Voice Cast

The series features a broad and accomplished cast. The main characters and actors are as follows:

• Saladin Ayyubi (Uğur Güneş): Founder of the Ayyubid Dynasty, a courageous and just leader who acts with the goal of liberating Jerusalem from the Crusaders. Güneş’s performance captures both Saladin’s warrior spirit and his visionary qualities.
• Süreyya (Dilin Döğer): A brave and beautiful warrior skilled in strategy and swordsmanship. One of Saladin’s closest supporters.
• Nureddin Zengi (Mehmet Ali Nuroğlu): Sultan of the Zengid Dynasty, a just and fearless ruler. Saladin’s mentor and leader.
• Nusreddin (Kaan Çakır): Brother of Nureddin Zengi and ruler of Damascus. An ambitious and trade-oriented character with opposing views to his elder brother.
• Şemse (Gökçe Türkan): Saladin’s supporter, a strong and emotional woman. She received widespread acclaim from viewers for her performance of the Azerbaijani folk song “Görmüşem Sevmişem”.
• Necmeddin Ayyubi (Seda Yıldız): Governor of Damascus and Saladin’s father. Adds depth to the series as a powerful statesman.
• Mila (Elif Doğan): A fictional character inspired by three historical figures. Doğan emphasized that she took on the responsibility of the role to contribute historical depth.
• Dolat (Reşit Berker Enhoş): Brother of Melike, a stubborn and proud character.
• Bernard (Berk Cankat): A Crusader knight and one of Saladin’s primary adversaries.