Bulgaria

In discussions with local authorities regarding the rampant lawlessness occurring within their jurisdiction, the responses are deeply concerning. Often, officials will either deny that these acts have taken place, labeling victims as liars, or they will admit, without hesitation, their inability to address these grievances or prevent future occurrences. Alternatively, they may question why victims do not report their complaints to the proper authorities.

The Fear of Retaliation

The answer to this question is straightforward: while many do attempt to voice their concerns where they can, fear often silences them. Most individuals understand that complaining is not only futile but could also be perilous. For example, what would be the point of reporting a grievance against Galib Bey of Tamboli to the Kaimakam, who appears nearly as intimidated by Galib Bey as the common people? This reflects a power dynamic that renders the authorities ineffective and leaves the victims i

The ongoing violence and oppression faced by the local population are alarming. Two men from Mishka approached us, sharing that there is not a single day without acts of violence, particularly targeting women. This pervasive atmosphere of fear is emblematic of the broader issues affecting the region.

Inhumane Treatment and Extortion

Near Tatar Bazardjik, we encountered a group of a dozen men tied together in pairs, guarded by three or four zaptiehs. They were being transported to Tatar Bazardjik, where Mr. Schuyler uncovered troubling evidence regarding one Ali Bey. This man, wielding some form of unrecognized authority, was known to arrest wealthy individuals on unfounded charges of belonging to the Insurrectionary Committee. Once imprisoned, these men faced various forms of maltreatment, ultimately being coerced into paying ransoms ranging from fifteen to fifty pounds for their release The Aftermath of Destruction.

Total Devastation

In the wake of recent events, the devastation in the village is staggering. There were once 700 houses here, yet not a single one remains standing. The Mudir informed us that only about fifty families are in a position to rebuild their homes or create any substitutes. They are utterly devoid of resources, leaving them to ponder how they will survive the impending winter. This village was primarily engaged in the cultivation of roses and the production of attar of roses, with around 130 to 150 small factories and approximately 500 copper boilers dedicated to distilling rose petals.

Systematic Pillaging

These retorts, each valued at around £10, represented an aggregate capital of £5,000, all of which was confiscated by their Turkish neighbors under the command of the notorious Tassum Bey. The extent of the looting was comprehensive; not only was furniture stolen and livestock driven away, but even the tiles from the roofs were carted off. A

Necati Güngör’s compiled work, “Boğazın Büyüsü,” provides a literary perspective on the Bosphorus, allowing us to draw comparisons between its past and present.

The Bosphorus stands as a symbol of Istanbul, and exploring its history through the lens of literary figures adds a unique pleasure to the experience. Journalist and storyteller Necati Güngör, in his book “Boğazın Büyüsü,” gathers writings from literary figures, with a focus on the renowned traveler Evliya Çelebi, offering insights into the Bosphorus. Published by İnkılap Publications, “Boğazın Büyüsü” allows us to juxtapose the Bosphorus of the past, including its people, quays, religious communities, economy, and ethnic groups, with its current state. The book also reveals the gaps in our knowledge and memory concerning the Bosphorus, prompting a sense of shame The First Church Dedicated to Virgin Ma

The First Church Dedicated to Virgin Mary and the World’s First Advertisement Hoard

The Double Churches, also known as the Consul Church, hold a distinctive position in the Christian world as the first church constructed in honor of Virgin Mary. Originally a place for consul meetings in the 5th century AD, the church underwent transformation into a basilica during the Roman era, eventually becoming dedicated to Virgin Mary. It was during a meeting of the third consul convened here that the decision to establish “Catholicism” was made, making the edifice significant as one of the seven churches of Christianity.

The appellation “Double Churches” emerged with the addition of a second church in the 7th century AD. Ephesus, at the time, boasted advanced infrastructure, including heating, water, and sewage systems. The city’s primary sewage system passed beneath a marble-covered street, featuring columns several meters high and cast lead

Mount Olympus (Keshish Dagh)

Mount Olympus, known as Keshish Dagh (Mount Monk) in Turkish, stands at 7600 feet above sea level. For a successful ascent, a good guide and a few soldiers, arranged through the Consul, are essential. The journey takes about six hours, with the last part on foot due to steep terrain. The descent typically takes four hours. Travelers need to bring provisions from Brusa, as there are no amenities along the way. Costs include horse fare (50 piastres), guide fee (20 piastres), and soldiers’ fees (20 piastres each). The summit provides a splendid panoramic view on clear days, encompassing the Marmora and Bosporus, Mount Ida, the plains of Troy, Mysia, Phrygia, and Pergamo and Kutahieh.

Return trains to Mudania depart from Brusa around 7:30 A.M. Exploring Brusa’s Landmarks and Industries, connecting to the steamer to Constantinople, where travelers disembark at Galata pier.