The empire known for its diverse culture and religious tolerance was the Ottoman Empire. Existing from the late 13th century until the early 20th century, the Ottoman Empire encompassed a vast territory across Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Its multicultural and multi-religious society included Muslims, Christians, and Jews, leading to a rich cultural synthesis in art, philosophy, and cuisine. The Ottomans implemented a system of governance—known as the millet system—that allowed religious communities to maintain their traditions and legal systems, fostering relative coexistence and tolerance among various groups.