Sultan's Intervention

Upon learning of the remarkable diamond, Grand Vizier Mustafa Pasha expressed interest in purchasing it directly from the Chief Jeweler. However, before he could act, news of the diamond reached the Sultan, who promptly ordered its transfer to the palace. Consequently, the diamond, upon examination, was revealed to be an extraordinary eighty-four carat gem, swiftly seized by the Sultan. As a reward for his role in the acquisition, the Chief Jeweler was elevated to the esteemed position of “Head of the Palace Doorkeepers” and granted several purses of gold.

Historical Accounts

In Komurciiyan’s historical account, reference is made to Gemelli’s narrative from the late 17th century, where it is stated that a diamond found among the ruins of a palace in Egrikapi had come into the possession of Sultan Mehmet, valued at one million koroners. These ruins likely belonged to the Blakerna Palace, described by Robert Clari, a participant in the Latin invasion, as containing magnificent treasures that were looted during the invasion. The mystery of how the Kaşıkçı Diamond survived the plunderers and reappeared centuries later in the dumps remains intriguing Guided Istanbul Tour Whirling Dervishes.

Treasury Records

An important document concerning the Kaşıkçı Diamond can be found in Sultan Mehmet IV’s Treasury register book. The Sultan issued a royal decree for the inventory of items in the Imperial Treasury and a general assessment within the Palace to fund a second campaign against Russia. The register lists various valuable jewelry items, including the “Great Diamond ring” weighing 85 carats, identified as the Kaşıkçı Diamond.

In a more organized register book from Sultan Abdülhamit I’s reign, the diamond is described as the “Great Diamond ring named Kaşıkçı,” weighing 1.85 carats and made of new gold. The entry provides detailed specifications, indicating the meticulous record-keeping practices of the time.

Queen of the Bulgarians

Uncovering the Story of the “Queen of the Bulgarians”

A journey to uncover the truth behind the “Queen of the Bulgarians” reveals unexpected layers of intrigue and tragedy.

Disraeli’s Wit and Turkish Brutality

Disraeli’s astute observation about the Turkish mode of dealing with captives finds grim validation in the fate of these young girls, left abandoned for days on end, a testament to the brutality of their captors Tour Packages Balkan.

A Curious Encounter

In the bustling streets of Philippopolis, tales of a derided “Queen” caught the attention of visitors. Rumored to be imprisoned, she was depicted as a figure of ridicule by the Turks. Intrigued by the mystery surrounding her, a visit was arranged to meet this enigmatic character.

Meeting the Fallen Queen

Led by Dr. Vlados, a Greek physician overseeing the welfare of prisoners, the journey led to a modest dwelling guarded by a stern-faced woman. Upon gaining entry, they encountered a frail figure, presumably the fallen Queen, accompanied by an elder woman, her guardian and protector.

Unraveling the Mystery

The encounter offered a glimpse into the plight of these women, trapped in the web of political upheaval and conflict. As they stood before the visitors, their expressions spoke volumes of their suffering and resilience, shedding light on the human stories buried beneath the layers of political intrigue.

In the heart of Philippopolis, a chance encounter with the “Queen of the Bulgarians” reveals a narrative woven with complexity and sorrow. As the visitors depart, they carry with them the weight of untold stories and the stark reality of human suffering amidst the tumult of history.

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan A Champion of Justice and Truth

Friendship and Valor in War

After joining the Russian army, Januarius Aloysius MacGahan forged sincere friendships with General Skobelev and General Gurko. He actively participated in all major battles for the liberation of Bulgaria, including the pivotal battles of Plevna and Shipka. His vivid descriptions of these battles stand as remarkable examples of journalism, capturing the intensity and heroism of the struggle for liberation.

Sacrifice and Service

Despite suffering a broken ankle, MacGahan remained steadfastly present at the frontlines throughout the Russo-Turkish War. His unwavering commitment to documenting the realities of war led him to Istanbul, where, exhausted and afflicted with typhoid fever, he passed away on June 9, 1878, at the age of 34. In his untimely death, MacGahan’s destiny became forever linked with the liberation of the Bulgarian people, a cause he served with unwavering dedication Sightseeing Turkey.

Investigating Atrocities

The reports on the April uprising in Bulgaria emerged from a conflict between the British government and the liberal leadership of the “Daily News,” led by Frank Hill, the chief editor. The “Daily News,” renowned for its well-organized foreign service, published a series of letters by correspondent Edween Pears, detailing monstrous atrocities in Bulgaria. These reports stirred doubts among the British public regarding the government’s Balkan policy.

Seeking Truth

To address public concerns and refute government accusations, the editorial board of the “Daily News” launched an inquiry, dispatching Januarius Aloysius MacGahan as a special commissioner to Bulgaria. MacGahan’s impeccable journalistic credentials made him uniquely suited for this mission. Simultaneously, the British government initiated its own official inquiry, led by Sir Henry Elliot and Walter Baring. Additionally, American Minister Maynard tasked General-consul Eugene Schuyler with investigating the atrocities.

Parallel Investigations

MacGahan’s investigation ran parallel to those of Schuyler and Baring. Schuyler and Baring, initially appointed to challenge MacGahan’s accounts, became supportive of his findings. While Schuyler’s report, published on August 28th, corroborated MacGahan’s observations, Baring, guided by a pro-Turkish stance, contradicted his earlier instructions to discredit MacGahan’s reports.

Legacy of Truth

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan’s legacy as a fearless journalist and advocate for justice endures. His courageous reporting and dedication to uncovering the truth about atrocities in Bulgaria not only galvanized public opinion but also reshaped diplomatic discourse. Through his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, MacGahan left an indelible mark on the history of journalism and human rights advocacy.

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan A Champion of Justice and Truth

Friendship and Valor in War

After joining the Russian army, Januarius Aloysius MacGahan forged sincere friendships with General Skobelev and General Gurko. He actively participated in all major battles for the liberation of Bulgaria, including the pivotal battles of Plevna and Shipka. His vivid descriptions of these battles stand as remarkable examples of journalism, capturing the intensity and heroism of the struggle for liberation.

Sacrifice and Service

Despite suffering a broken ankle, MacGahan remained steadfastly present at the frontlines throughout the Russo-Turkish War. His unwavering commitment to documenting the realities of war led him to Istanbul, where, exhausted and afflicted with typhoid fever, he passed away on June 9, 1878, at the age of 34. In his untimely death, MacGahan’s destiny became forever linked with the liberation of the Bulgarian people, a cause he served with unwavering dedication Sightseeing Turkey.

Investigating Atrocities

The reports on the April uprising in Bulgaria emerged from a conflict between the British government and the liberal leadership of the “Daily News,” led by Frank Hill, the chief editor. The “Daily News,” renowned for its well-organized foreign service, published a series of letters by correspondent Edween Pears, detailing monstrous atrocities in Bulgaria. These reports stirred doubts among the British public regarding the government’s Balkan policy.

Seeking Truth

To address public concerns and refute government accusations, the editorial board of the “Daily News” launched an inquiry, dispatching Januarius Aloysius MacGahan as a special commissioner to Bulgaria. MacGahan’s impeccable journalistic credentials made him uniquely suited for this mission. Simultaneously, the British government initiated its own official inquiry, led by Sir Henry Elliot and Walter Baring. Additionally, American Minister Maynard tasked General-consul Eugene Schuyler with investigating the atrocities.

Parallel Investigations

MacGahan’s investigation ran parallel to those of Schuyler and Baring. Schuyler and Baring, initially appointed to challenge MacGahan’s accounts, became supportive of his findings. While Schuyler’s report, published on August 28th, corroborated MacGahan’s observations, Baring, guided by a pro-Turkish stance, contradicted his earlier instructions to discredit MacGahan’s reports.

Legacy of Truth

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan’s legacy as a fearless journalist and advocate for justice endures. His courageous reporting and dedication to uncovering the truth about atrocities in Bulgaria not only galvanized public opinion but also reshaped diplomatic discourse. Through his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, MacGahan left an indelible mark on the history of journalism and human rights advocacy.

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan A Champion of Justice and Truth

Friendship and Valor in War

After joining the Russian army, Januarius Aloysius MacGahan forged sincere friendships with General Skobelev and General Gurko. He actively participated in all major battles for the liberation of Bulgaria, including the pivotal battles of Plevna and Shipka. His vivid descriptions of these battles stand as remarkable examples of journalism, capturing the intensity and heroism of the struggle for liberation.

Sacrifice and Service

Despite suffering a broken ankle, MacGahan remained steadfastly present at the frontlines throughout the Russo-Turkish War. His unwavering commitment to documenting the realities of war led him to Istanbul, where, exhausted and afflicted with typhoid fever, he passed away on June 9, 1878, at the age of 34. In his untimely death, MacGahan’s destiny became forever linked with the liberation of the Bulgarian people, a cause he served with unwavering dedication Sightseeing Turkey.

Investigating Atrocities

The reports on the April uprising in Bulgaria emerged from a conflict between the British government and the liberal leadership of the “Daily News,” led by Frank Hill, the chief editor. The “Daily News,” renowned for its well-organized foreign service, published a series of letters by correspondent Edween Pears, detailing monstrous atrocities in Bulgaria. These reports stirred doubts among the British public regarding the government’s Balkan policy.

Seeking Truth

To address public concerns and refute government accusations, the editorial board of the “Daily News” launched an inquiry, dispatching Januarius Aloysius MacGahan as a special commissioner to Bulgaria. MacGahan’s impeccable journalistic credentials made him uniquely suited for this mission. Simultaneously, the British government initiated its own official inquiry, led by Sir Henry Elliot and Walter Baring. Additionally, American Minister Maynard tasked General-consul Eugene Schuyler with investigating the atrocities.

Parallel Investigations

MacGahan’s investigation ran parallel to those of Schuyler and Baring. Schuyler and Baring, initially appointed to challenge MacGahan’s accounts, became supportive of his findings. While Schuyler’s report, published on August 28th, corroborated MacGahan’s observations, Baring, guided by a pro-Turkish stance, contradicted his earlier instructions to discredit MacGahan’s reports.

Legacy of Truth

Januarius Aloysius MacGahan’s legacy as a fearless journalist and advocate for justice endures. His courageous reporting and dedication to uncovering the truth about atrocities in Bulgaria not only galvanized public opinion but also reshaped diplomatic discourse. Through his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, MacGahan left an indelible mark on the history of journalism and human rights advocacy.

Soviet Influence in the Balkans

The Turning Point

Teheran Conference Decisions (1943)

At the end of 1943, the Teheran Allied Conference made two crucial decisions. First, they approved the bombardment of Bulgaria. Second, Bulgaria and Romania were designated as Soviet zones of interest until the war’s end, effectively placing their fate in Soviet hands. Additionally, the conference chose to support the Communist leader Tito in Yugoslavia over the nationalist guerilla leader Mihailovich.

Bombardment and Soviet Demands (1944)

Following these decisions, Sofia experienced heavy bombardment in January and March 1944, leading to extensive destruction. Simultaneously, the Soviet Union demanded Bulgaria open all of its Soviet consulates, a request impossible to fulfill with German troops still present. Bulgarian guerillas engaged in fierce fighting against the pro-Nazi government Daily Tours Istanbul.

Leadership Changes and Confusion (June 1944)

The Bozhilov government was replaced by Ivan Bagrianov’s administration in June 1944. Bagrianov hesitated for two months on clearing out German forces from Varna and Burgas, trying to prove Bulgaria’s neutrality to the Soviets. The nation faced confusion and weak leadership during these tumultuous days. A Bulgarian delegation went to the Cairo Conference to negotiate an armistice, but the efforts did not progress. By late August, Russian forces, assisted by Romania, reached Bulgaria’s Danubian frontier, positioning the Red Army for an invasion.

Soviet Declaration of War and Occupation (September 1944)

On September 2, 1944, Konstantin Moraviev replaced Bagrianov. On September 5, the Soviet representative met with Moraviev, expressing concerns about vital Soviet interests in the Balkans, especially the Straits. The Soviet representative reported to his government that the new Bulgarian government seemed no different from the previous ones. Based on this, and likely prearranged, Russia declared war on Bulgaria, instructing Marshal Tolbukhin to “bend the neck of the treacherous enemy.” Four days later, the Russians accepted Bulgaria’s surrender, occupying the country with full conqueror’s rights.

Soviet Influence in the Balkans

The Turning Point

Teheran Conference Decisions (1943)

At the end of 1943, the Teheran Allied Conference made two crucial decisions. First, they approved the bombardment of Bulgaria. Second, Bulgaria and Romania were designated as Soviet zones of interest until the war’s end, effectively placing their fate in Soviet hands. Additionally, the conference chose to support the Communist leader Tito in Yugoslavia over the nationalist guerilla leader Mihailovich.

Bombardment and Soviet Demands (1944)

Following these decisions, Sofia experienced heavy bombardment in January and March 1944, leading to extensive destruction. Simultaneously, the Soviet Union demanded Bulgaria open all of its Soviet consulates, a request impossible to fulfill with German troops still present. Bulgarian guerillas engaged in fierce fighting against the pro-Nazi government Daily Tours Istanbul.

Leadership Changes and Confusion (June 1944)

The Bozhilov government was replaced by Ivan Bagrianov’s administration in June 1944. Bagrianov hesitated for two months on clearing out German forces from Varna and Burgas, trying to prove Bulgaria’s neutrality to the Soviets. The nation faced confusion and weak leadership during these tumultuous days. A Bulgarian delegation went to the Cairo Conference to negotiate an armistice, but the efforts did not progress. By late August, Russian forces, assisted by Romania, reached Bulgaria’s Danubian frontier, positioning the Red Army for an invasion.

Soviet Declaration of War and Occupation (September 1944)

On September 2, 1944, Konstantin Moraviev replaced Bagrianov. On September 5, the Soviet representative met with Moraviev, expressing concerns about vital Soviet interests in the Balkans, especially the Straits. The Soviet representative reported to his government that the new Bulgarian government seemed no different from the previous ones. Based on this, and likely prearranged, Russia declared war on Bulgaria, instructing Marshal Tolbukhin to “bend the neck of the treacherous enemy.” Four days later, the Russians accepted Bulgaria’s surrender, occupying the country with full conqueror’s rights.

The Era of Communist Rule in Bulgaria

Liberation or Occupation?

Bulgaria’s alliance with Nazi Germany during World War II led to international isolation. Despite the Bulgarian army’s fight against the Germans on Yugoslav, Hungarian, and Austrian territories from late 1944 to May 1945, Winston Churchill and Stalin considered Bulgaria defeated. The Great Powers, led by Moscow with a 75% influence, imposed Soviet presence, burdening Bulgaria with $70 million in reparations. Despite this, Bulgaria maintained a constructive foreign policy, avoiding territorial claims and revenge-seeking aspirations against its neighbors.

The Impact of the September 9, 1944 Coup

Following the September 9, 1944 coup, Soviet Russia gradually introduced a new political system in Bulgaria. The three-year presence of the Soviet army played a crucial role in establishing communist dominance. The Goryani, an anti-communist partisan movement, resisted the occupiers and their local supporters but was eventually eliminated by the late 1950s.

Transition to a Republic

In violation of the Constitution, the Council of Ministers released the previous regents of the minor King Simeon II and appointed a new Council of Regents. A referendum on September 8, 1946, with over 93% in favor, declared Bulgaria a republic on September 15, with communist leader Vasil Kolarov elected as Chairman. Eight-year-old King Simeon II and his family were forced to leave the country. The new government refused to legalize other parties Turkey Sightseeing, accusing them of fascism, while the Communist Party expanded its influence, led by Georgi Dimitrov, a renowned leader of the international communist movement.

Communist Leadership and International Connections

Georgi Dimitrov, famous for his victory in the Leipzig Trial against the Nazis, guided the Communist Party from Moscow with the assistance of Traicho Kostov until the end of the war. The party consolidated its ranks around a new Political Bureau, solidifying communist leadership in Bulgaria.

The period from 1944 to 1989 marked Bulgaria’s transition to communist rule, shaped by international influences, resistance movements, and political transformations. The establishment of the republic and the dominance of the Communist Party defined Bulgaria’s trajectory during these decades.

Sir Henry Elliot's Allegiance Amidst Atrocities

Sir Henry Elliot’s Controversial Role

In the midst of escalating atrocities, the actions of Sir Henry Elliot, the British Ambassador, are scrutinized for his steadfast allegiance to defending the Turks and turning a blind eye to the gruesome events unfolding. This article delves into the sources of information available to Sir Henry and the diplomatic choices that shaped his response.

Defending Turks at All Costs

Sir Henry Elliot’s primary duty, as perceived by many, was to unwaveringly support the Turks, regardless of the atrocities they committed. The analysis explores the impact of such a singular allegiance on the ambassador’s ability to comprehend and respond to the humanitarian crisis that was rapidly unfolding.

Ignoring Weekly Reports from Consuls

A critical examination of the available information reveals that Consuls from France, Germany, Austria, Greece, and Russia submitted weekly reports detailing the unfolding events. Despite the accessibility of these reports, Sir Henry seemingly chose to overlook or dismiss them. The article probes the consequences of such selective information consumption on diplomatic decision-making Bulgaria Private Tours.

Discrediting Consuls and German Railway Officials

Sir Henry Elliot’s skepticism extended beyond dismissing reports from the Consuls; he also discredited the German railway officials living in close proximity to the affected areas. The article explores the implications of Sir Henry’s belief that these individuals were all somehow aligned with Russian interests, rendering their reports “worthless” in his eyes.

Sir Henry’s Allegiance Dilemma

The clash between diplomatic obligations and humanitarian concerns forms a central theme. Sir Henry’s unwavering defense of the Turks, coupled with a distrust of information sources, prompts reflection on the role of diplomats in times of crisis. Can diplomatic allegiance coexist with an ethical responsibility to address human suffering?

Sir Henry’s Controversial Lens

The article delves into the concept of worldview and how Sir Henry Elliot’s staunch allegiance may have shaped his perception of unfolding events. The impact of such a colored lens on diplomatic decision-making and the ability to respond effectively to crises is explored.

Reassessing Diplomatic Values in the Face of Atrocities

Sir Henry Elliot’s controversial stance raises broader questions about the values that underpin diplomatic decisions, especially during times of humanitarian crises. As the world reflects on his actions, there is a pressing need to reassess the balance between diplomatic allegiance and the moral imperative to address atrocities promptly and effectively.

The Lingering Shadows

Shattered Dignity and Collective Guilt in Otluk-kui

As we confront the chilling realities of Otluk-kui, a town scarred by heinous atrocities, the widespread outrage against women unfolds a tale of shattered dignity and the haunting burden of collective guilt.

No Exceptional Case A Town Enveloped in Outrage

The horrors inflicted upon the women of Otluk-kui paint a grim picture of a community ravaged by unspeakable brutality. It’s crucial to recognize that the violation suffered by the elderly woman mentioned earlier was not an isolated incident. In fact, there seems to be no woman in the town, whether old or young, who managed to escape the clutches of outrage. The very fabric of Otluk-kui’s society has been torn asunder by a relentless wave of violence that spared no one.

Shattered Sanctity The Pervasive Perception of Sin

The aftermath of these outrages reveals a curious and profoundly poignant circumstance—the women and girls, victims of these brutal acts, share a collective perception of themselves as “very great sinners.” In the cultural context of Otluk-kui, where the chastity of Bulgarian women is a deeply cherished value, the weight of sin adds an additional layer of torment to the already unimaginable dishonor they’ve endured.

The violation extends beyond the physical realm, becoming a stain on the very soul of the survivors. The notion of sin transforms the traumatic experience into a lifelong penance, an unrelenting burden that, even in forgiveness, leaves the women unable to absolve themselves fully. Every young girl affected by these atrocities foresees a future devoid of marital bliss, considering herself unworthy of finding a husband. The haunting impact is not limited to the female population; the young men of Otluk-kui, too, grapple with altered matrimonial aspirations Holidays Bulgaria.

Seeking Redemption Future Prospects and Altered Relationships

In the wake of the Bashi-Bazouks’ visitation, the young men of Otluk-kui find their matrimonial pursuits forever changed. The once straightforward path to marriage now takes a detour, steering them away from villages tainted by the atrocities. The quest for wives becomes a search for partners untarnished by the shadows of the past. The repercussions of the violences perpetrated against their community ripple through the fabric of relationships, reshaping the dynamics of love, trust, and familial bonds.

Otluk-kui stands as a testament to the enduring impact of violence on a community’s psyche. The shattered sanctity of its women, coupled with the collective perception of sin, paints a portrait of a town haunted by the ghosts of its traumatic past. As we bear witness to the aftermath, we are compelled to reflect on the profound resilience required for healing and the arduous journey towards rebuilding a community shattered by the weight of its collective guilt.

Turkish authorities

I am convinced that not the slightest reliance can be placed in the promises of the Turkish authorities, and that they have no intention of fulfilling their promises when they make them. They are simply made to throw dust in the eyes of Europe, for although they have not patriotism enough to know or care whether they themselves ruin the country or not, they have a very lively fear of a European intervention, and are ready to promise anything to avert it. As for the execution of these

promises they know that can be avoided. As though in very contempt for the promises and assurances given to Mr. Baring and Mr. Schuyler, they are everywhere sending out at this moment, and demanding the payment of taxes in the burnt and ruined villages, just as though nothing had happened Daily Tours Istanbul.

On this village of Raddovp, for instance, a tax of four hundred pounds lias been levied, which it is utterly impossible for the poor people to pay. The pretext for the burning of this village was the killing of two zaptiehs, or rural policemen, here. The inhabitants flatly deny that any zaptieh was killed in or about the village, or that they ever raised a hand against the Turks.

Turks have been killed

As in other villages where Turks have been killed, the people always confess it, I believe that here they tell the truth, and that there was no other cause for the attack than the desire for plunder on the part of the Turks. This is also, I believe, Mr. Schuyler’s opinion. We walked through the village, which presented a sad spectacle of ruin.

Many of the people seemed to have returned, each family, to the blackened walls of their former homes, where they had constructed in the corner of the walls a sort of shelter with the aid of a few poles and a little straw. Some had a coverlet or two, others straw to sleep on, and many seemed to sleep on the bare ground. I saw one sick woman groaning with pain, lying with only a thin coverlet between her and the damp ground, while a little girl sat beside her and continually bathed her head with cold water.

Turk or Christian

As I have already stated, there was no Mudir in this village at the time of the outbreak, and his wife could not therefore have been killed. Of the twelve cases of Turkish women killed, we have therefore investigated five, and found that three of them were without the slightest foundation. As we cannot learn the names of the villages where the seven other women were killed, we cannot investigate, and we therefore take the liberty of doubting.

The story told by Edib Effendi, of a Turkish girl who was killed and then mutilated in so disgusting a manner, is a pure fiction. We have not been able to discover the least trace of it. Nobody, Turk or Christian, in Tatar-Bazardjik, near where it is said to have occurred, ever heard of it; nor did the different Consuls in Philippopolis, who received daily reports of every thing that was going on throughout the whole district from the beginning of the troubles, ever hear of it until they saw the report of Edib Effendi.

The truth is that the story is an impudent falsehood, invented by Edib Effendi, which has not even the semblance of probability. This state of things continued in Pana- gurishti Sightseeing Turkey, or Otluk-kui, for nine or ten days, during which time nine Turks and two Turkish women were killed. All of these but the two women and the one zaptieh were killed with arms in their hands.

Altogether during this time some twenty prisoners were taken, and these were well treated and cared for until the Turkish army came on and released them. It should be remembered that I am not giving the story of one person alone in making these statements, for since my conversation with the schoolmistress we have been to Panagurishti, have compared her story with the accounts received from other people, and find it corroborated in every particular. To tell the truth, it scarcely needed corroboration, for the Turks themselves, neither here nor at Philippopolis, do not claim more killed than the number above stated.

Bulgarians initiated several military actions

After the Bulgarians initiated several military actions against the Byzantine garrisons in Moesia and to the north of the Danube once again the Byzantine Emperor led a large army to the north of the Balkan Mountains. But the Bulgarian rulers used the knights of the German Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who participated in the Third Crusade, to regain new Bulgarian territories from the Empire. Meanwhile Petar ceded the throne to his brother Assen (1190-1196), realizing that he was a better statesman and military commander Visit Bulgaria. In the following years the new Bulgarian kingdom added many Balkan regions to its territory. Finally King Assen I was assassinated by his cousin Ivanko who headed a conspiracy of boyars faithful to Constantinople, so Petar ascended the throne to rule for one more year, but he also became a victim of the treacherous plot…

On the throne came the third brother, Kaloyan (1197-1207), and showed himself as a wise statesman, a remarkable commander and skilled diplomat. The borders of Bulgaria already stretched far to the west. In 1202 the Byzantine Emperor and Kaloyan concluded a peace treaty – which actually verified the territorial acquisitions of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom – and the Tsar was pronounced as “Emperor of Bulgaria and Wallachia”. In 1204 the Crusaders captured Constantinople. The Byzantines rebelled against Baldwin I of Flanders, imposed on them as the first Emperor of the East.

They called Kaloyan to help them. Baldwin 1 laid claim to the former Byzantine territories which had fallen into Kaloyan’s hands, his Latin troops raided Thrace and seized a number of Bulgarian fortresses. After a quick preparation the decisive battle took place on 14lh April 1205 near the town of Adrianople. The Latins were defeated, their Emperor was taken prisoner to the fortress of Tumovo and executed after some time in what later became known as the Baldwin’s Tower. Now Kaloyan became the real master of the Balkans and, like Basil II who called himself “Killer of Bulgarians”, Kaloyan called himself “Killer of Byzantines”. Two years later another Latin army led by Boniface of Montferrat was routed and its leader died in action. Simeon’s dream of conquering the entire Byzantine Empire and of a triumphant Bulgarian parade in Constantinople was revived once again…

The Colossus or Built Column

The Colossus, or Built Column, an obelisk of masonry, originally 94 feet high. The exact date of its erection is not known; but a Greek inscrip tion on it states that it was restored by Constantine VII. (Porphyrogenitus), who lived in the tenth century A.D. As is evinced by the rivet-holes in the stones composing it, this monument once had a bronze sheathing. This was stripped off by the Latins when they took the city, and coined into money.

Until 1856 the lower portion of these three monuments was hidden under a gradual accumulation of stones and earth. During the Crimean War, Sir C. Newton, of the British Museum, received permission from the Ottoman Government to excavate them to the base of their pedestals. Afterwards a wall was built round reaching to the present level of the At Maidan, and this wall was surmounted by an iron railing. So the monuments rise from a pit, whose floor is on the same level as the ancient surface of the Spina.

The Pillar of Theodosius, of granite, with a Corinthian capital, some 49 feet high, stands in the Seraglio grounds, near Seraglio Point. Its Latin inscription, now scarcely legible, runs— Fortunse reduci ob devictos Gothos and seems to denote that the pillar was erected to commemorate a victory over the Goths.

The Porphyry, or Burnt Column, stands in the street called Divan Yolu, close to the tomb of Sultan Mahmud, on the site of what was the Forum of Constantine. The column was originally 120 feet high, but only 90 feet of it remain now. It is composed of six blocks of porphyry, so cleverly joined as to look like a monolith. It formerly supported a bronze statue of Apollo, altered to represent Constantine, and brought by him from Rome, like the column itself. The white marble now seen on it was added when the column was restored by Emmanuel Comnenus, after the two upper blocks had been destroyed by lightning. The frequent fires in its neighbourhood have considerably injured this monument, and to them is due the origin of the title Burnt Column, by which it is now known. Upon the upper part of the column is the inscription—

Travellers should examine all change

Travellers should examine all change tendered them, and refuse all worn and light coins.

Foreign Coins.—Gold coins of any European country pass current in Constantinople. Those most in use are the English sovereign, better known as Ingliz Lira, given and taken at 120 piastres silver value. And the foreigner tendering an English sovereign or half-sovereign will do well to call attention to the coin, otherwise it may be taken for a Turkish lira or half lira, which of course are of less value. Next come the gold twenty and ten franc pieces, given and taken at 95 and 47J piastres silver respectively. The Austrian ducat or kremitz is valued at 56 piastres silver.

The silver francs are worth 4 J piastres; the only ones to be taken or given by travellers should be the French, Italian, and Greek silver francs; those of any other European nation are with difficulty exchanged at the rate of 3 or 3 J piastres.

Bank of England notes for £5 and £10, and French Banque de France notes for 100 francs, are taken everywhere in payment, and are readily changed by the money-changers.

Legal Tender.—There is practically no such thing as legal tender in Turkey, and payment may be made in coins of any current denomination. In all the Government departments, however, as well as at the bridge toll-offices, and ferry-boat and railway booking-offices, only Turkish money must be tendered guided istanbul tour.

Imperial Ottoman Bank

Banks.—Imperial Ottoman Bank, an Anglo- French company founded by Imperial Charter, a large building in Rue Yoivoda, Galata. Branch office, Grande Rue de Pera. The Credit Lyonnais, branch office, in Karakeui. Messrs. Thomas Cook and Sons, 12 Rue Kabristan, Pera. At this latter firm’s office travellers always can get circular notes issued or cashed, and bank notes changed into any kind of money they may require at the time.

Sarrafs or Money-changers.—These are one of the special features of Constantinople and of all Turkish towns. Their name is legion; they are to be found in all the principal thoroughfares, and they generally combine their special calling with that of tobacconist. The charge for giving change varies

with the nature of the change demanded of them, and may range from Id. to 5d. in the pound. They are either Jews, Greeks, or Armenians, no Turk having yet been seen or heard of following the calling of a sarraf.

The Turkish Calendar.—Turkish chronology is computed from the flight of Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, on the 16th of July 622 A.D., which on the prophet’s death seventeen years later was established as an era by the Caliph Omar, and was styled the Hejreh (Flight), corrupted by Europeans into Hegira. The Turkish year is the lunar year, divided into twelve months of thirty and of twenty-nine days alternately, so that there are 354 days in a year, and each year commences 11 days earlier than the preceding one, a cycle occurring once every thirty- three. years. Turkish time is computed from sunset, the day being divided into twenty-four hours counted as twice twelve; Turkish time, therefore, as com-pared with European time, varies throughout the year. Natives generally set their watches by Yeni Valideh Mosque clock.

ALPHONSE DE LAMARTINE COLLECTION

(Georgi Mavridi House) 19 Knyaz Tseretelev Street

This small but memorable exhibition of the life and work of the eminent French poet and politician is arranged in the house of Georgi Madridi. In the summer of 1833, during Lamartine’s travels in the Orient, he stayed here for three days and since then the house has been associated with his name. Mavridi’s House is one of the biggest and most beautiful in Old

Plovdiv. An unknown master-builder has managed to overcome the difficulties posed by the sloping terrain in a brilliant way. The foundations and the ground floor of the house have an irregular outline while the two upper floors have the typical symmetrical plan. Each of them juts out over the floor below which considerably increases the living area of the house by adding to its height. People compare it to a bird spreading wings before flying off, an effect achieved by its position on the corner of Zora and Knyaz Tseretelev streets and by its being in good sight from the foot of Jambaz Tepe bulgaria holidays.

THE ‘HIPPOCRATES’ PHARMACY COLLECTION

(Dr. Sotir Antoniadi House and Chemist’s, 16 Saborna Street)

The comparatively small two-storey Revival house is the site of a rich collection dedicated to the history of pharmacy in Plovdiv and the area. The house was built in 1872 for Dr. Sotir Antoniadi – a notable representative of the Greek ethnic community in Plovdiv, one of the first academically trained doctors before the Liberation. The Georgi Mavridi House, site of ‘Alphonse de Lamartene’ collection.

Dr. S. Antoniadi House – the old-world ‘Hippocrates’ Pharmacy.

building has an asymmetrical plan and is quite solid. The pharmacy was on the ground floor and the doctor’s family lived on the upper floor.The ceilings of the house are plastered and decorated with painted rosettes and plant ornaments. The museum pharmacy was opened in 1981 and is unique for the country. It is a truthful representation of the typical Plovdiv pharmacy of old times and has a functioning counter for the purchase of contemporary medicines.

CITY ART GALLERY

(The former Girls’ School)

14 Saborna Street

The distinguished-looking building of the former Girls’

Secondary School of Plovdiv now houses the permanent exhibition of the City Art Gallery. Over BOO paintings, graphics and sculptures show the development of art from the time of the National Revival to our days. One can see here the oldest portrait in Bulgarian art, executed by an unknown artist from Tryavna, of Sofronii Vrachanski as well as works by Stanislav Dospevski, Nikolai Pavlovich, Georgi Danchov, Anton Mitov, Hristo Stanchev and Ivan Mrkvicka.

The exhibition traces the development of the genres of still life, landscape and figured composition from the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th c. to our time. The work of painters from Plovdiv is extensively displayed, starting from the establishment of the ‘Association of the Artists from Southeast Bulgaria’ in 1912 to the present day.

Rhodope architecture

Tourist attractions: The District History Museum, the Art Gallery, monuments of Rhodope architecture from the National Revival period such as the Pangalov House, I860, which has an ethnographic collection, the AUbeev Police Station, the Shere- metev and Petko Takov Houses.

The only feudal building preserved in Bulgaria — Agoushev House in the village of Mogilitsa, 28 km southwest of Smolyan in the valley of the River Arda.

Hotels: Smolyan, 3 stars, 5 floors, 169 double rooms and 7 suites; restaurant, day bar, night club, national restaurant, hairdresser’s, coffee shop, free shop, parking lot, rent-a-car office, tel. 3-81-76, Sokolitsa, 2 stars 10 floors, accommodating 194, tel. 3-30-85; Orfei, 3 stars, tel 3-20-41, accommodating 170, restaurants and a national restaurant private turkey tours.

Smolyan lakes are north of the town amidst picturesque rocks and coniferous forests. There is a modern chalet accommodating 80.

The village of Shiroka Luka (pop. 2,000), is an architectural and ethnographic reserve. Particularly interesting here are the Sgourov House, Kalamdji House (with an ethnographic collection), the Kirov Houses, the old bridges, Church of the Assumption, 1834.

The village has a folk-music school, There is a restaurant, a national taverna and tourist chalet.

PLOVDIV – HASKOVO – HARMAN LI – SVILENGRAD- KAPITAN ANDREEVO

Among the valley of the Maritsa River, three km from Plovdiv stands the monument to Olga Nikolaevna Skobeleva, mother of the famous Russian General Skobelev who fought m the 1877-1878 Russo-Turkish War of Liberation, who came to Bulgaria to organize orphanages, hospitals and charity societies and who was murdered near Plovdiv by a band of Circassian brigands on 6 July 1880. The monument marks the spot.

Between Plovdiv and Sadovo is the Trakiya motel, 2 stars, and Chaiya camp site, 2 stars.

The village of Klokotnitsa lies ten km from the town of Haskovo and here in 1230 Bulgarian troops led by Tzar Ivan Assen II defeated the Epirate ruler Todor Komnin. The Bulgarian troops continued their advance and in a short time had captured Thrace of Adrianople, the Aegean region, the whole of Macedonia and Albania. In honour of this victory Tzar Ivan Assen II ordered a column to be erected in the Church of St Forty Martyrs in Turnovo. Shortly before Haskovo are the Iztok camp site and Klokotnitsa Inn.

Haskovo (pop. 84,117) existed in the 14th century as a trading settlement. A 9-12 century fortress has been discovered nearby. During Ottoman domination the town had only one Bulgarian quarter, near the Church of St Virgin Mary and the Church of St Archangel Michael After Bulgaria’s liberation from the Turks Haskovo developed as a major tobacco producing centre and today it is a large industrial centre.