The Great Seljuk Empire was a medieval Turkish state that emerged in the 11th century, covering parts of modern-day Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. Founded by the Seljuk Turks, the empire played a crucial role in the spread of Islam and the establishment of Turkic culture in the region. It reached its height under the leadership of Malik Shah in the late 11th century. The empire was known for its advancements in science, literature, and architecture. The Seljuks built impressive structures, including mosques and caravanserais, and fostered a rich cultural exchange between Persian, Arab, and Turkic traditions. The Great Seljuk Empire eventually fragmented into smaller states, paving the way for the rise of the Ottoman Empire.