Artuk

Artuk, also known as Artoghlu, was a Turkic chieftain who lived in the late 11th century. He was the founder of the Artuqid dynasty, which ruled a territory in southeastern Anatolia and northern Syria for several centuries. Artuk himself was a prominent military figure within the Seljuk Empire, serving under Malik Shah I. He played a significant role in the Seljuk campaigns in the region, particularly against the Byzantine Empire and various local emirs.

Following the death of Malik Shah I in 1092, the Seljuk Empire experienced internal strife and fragmentation. Artuk was granted the governorship of Jerusalem, a strategically important city. He held this position until his death in 1102. His sons, Ilghazi and Sukman, inherited his influence and continued his legacy by establishing and expanding the Artuqid beylik. The Artuqids became important patrons of art and architecture, leaving behind notable structures in cities like Diyarbakir and Mardin. The dynasty's influence waned over time, eventually being absorbed by other powers in the region.