The empire renowned for its vast expanse and cultural richness during its golden age is the Ottoman Empire. At its height, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries under Suleiman the Magnificent, the empire spanned three continents and included diverse cultures and religious groups. The Ottomans made significant contributions to art, architecture, literature, and science, exemplified in structures like the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. This cultural flourishing created a legacy that influenced the regions it encompassed and left a lasting impact on world history.