Proof from Ancient History
When we read that Mardonius, the Persian general of the great army of Xerxes, spent the winter in Thessaly, this alone shows how rich and fruitful the country must have been. A land that could support such a large army for an entire winter must have had abundant food, strong agriculture, and good organization.
This truth was clearly confirmed during my stay there. Although the number of people in the city at that time was very great, there was no lack of food. On the contrary, provisions were plentiful and very cheap. In a common eating house, I could enjoy a full meal of both roasted and boiled food, along with sherbet, for the value of only six pence Money Exchange and Trade in the Market.
At such a small cost, I was also able to invite both Turks and Christians to dine with me. They accepted this kindness gladly, and such shared meals helped maintain friendly relations among people of different faiths.
A Crowded but Well-Ordered City
The city was extremely crowded, filled with a mixed population of soldiers, travelers, merchants, and local residents. Despite this great number and variety of people, the city remained peaceful and well governed.
Public order was strictly maintained. An officer carrying a club walked through the streets, accompanied by about twenty assistants. Their duty was to watch over behavior in public places. Anyone found drunk, quarrelling, shouting loudly, or acting against good manners was immediately punished. Because of this strict supervision, the city remained calm and orderly, even with so many people living close together Sightseeing Tour Sofia.
Health and Illness in a Hot Season
When I was there in September 1669, the weather was extremely hot. Many people were suffering from fevers and agues. This was not limited to Thessaly alone, as similar illnesses were common throughout much of Europe at that time.
When I later returned to England, I found many people still weakened by quartan agues. These illnesses had begun around the same season, which shows how widespread such fevers were during that year.
Vintage Time and Local Wine
At this same time, the people of Thessaly were busy with their grape harvest. We had the chance to taste their fresh grape juice, known as must, as well as their new wine. The flavors were pleasant and refreshing, especially in the heat.
The stricter Turks, who refused to drink wine for religious reasons, would still take a small amount of the must. They found it enjoyable and acceptable, as it had not yet fully become wine.
Barber Shops and Daily Comfort
During the hottest part of the season, when people were sweating heavily, we often visited the barber. The barber performed his work skillfully and gave us great relief and refreshment. He trimmed each man according to the custom and fashion of his own country.
These visits were not only practical but also social occasions, where people talked and relaxed while escaping the heat for a short time.
Greek Hairstyles and Customs
The Greeks had a very distinctive style of hair. They left a small round space on the top of the head bare, about the width of a silver dollar. Around this spot, they allowed the hair to grow in a narrow ring, about two fingers wide, more or less.
After that, they shaved the rest of the head completely and kept it bare. This hairstyle was easily recognized and marked them clearly among other peoples.
Daily Life in Thessaly
Altogether, life in Thessaly during this time showed a balance of abundance, order, hardship, and custom. The land provided well for its people, the authorities kept peace, and daily habits reflected both tradition and practicality in a hot and demanding climate.
