Hamam Balkania. Vladislav Bajac

did quickly, without a lot of talk, moving past a job done as if it had never happened and finding a solution for the next problem. At one moment after the battle, he said to Bajica, “On the same date, August 29, I’ve witnessed two victories in the last five years: in 1521 at Belgrade, and on the same day, five years later, at Mohacs.”

      Both the Vizier and the Sultan assigned Sinan to independently lead operations. Not only did he prove to be agile in solving all sorts of technical problems, he also distinguished himself with his ability to communicate with the craftsmen and builders with a special kind of respect in his commands, so that he achieved incredible efficiency in those operations. Everyone gladly and whole-heartedly participated in all phases of the work. Altogether he possessed remarkable organisational skills: as an officer he knew how to evaluate a situation, giving timely, precise and correct orders; as an engineer he proved his knowledge, and as a supervisor he showed that he cared about those who worked under him. In the system run by the Grand Vizier and the Sultan, this path was unusual, but they allowed him to go down it because he was so useful to them. For example, since the settlement of Osijek was completely destroyed on their way to Budim, it was no problem for Sinan to immediately issue the order for its renovation and rebuilding. Departing from the place, he left behind only a couple of agas and craftsmen who quickly employed the inhabitants and immediately began construction according to his plans. Even the newly created vassals were impressed by the decisiveness and speed with which the conquered towns were re-built without delay. This simultaneously improved the image that the Ottomans left among the common folk and the subjugated nobles. On their account, Sinan created, if not respect, at least an alternative to the cruelty.