Unprecedented Gifts for an Envoy

The commentary on the significance of the highly priced gifts sent abroad highlights their exceptional nature. It is noted that no other envoy had been entrusted with such valuable offerings before.

Meticulous Handling of Gifts

In Izzi’s annals, the meticulous process of handing over the gifts to the Ottoman envoy, Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha, is described. Each gift, with its pre-determined price, was individually sealed by the Grand Vizier and then sent to the Private Treasury for packaging while Pasha himself prepared for the journey to Iran.

Presentation of Gifts

On the designated day, Haci Ahmet Pasha was invited to the Palace for the formal handing over of the gifts, which were then delivered to his residence. This tradition underscored the ceremonial importance attached to the exchange of valuable gifts.

Ceremonial Tradition

The tradition of sending envoys abroad with gifts was deeply ingrained in diplomatic protocol. The envoy of Nadir Shah, for instance, participated in the evaluation of treasury items alongside Ottoman officials. Following the evaluation, a ceremonial dessert and coffee event was held, where Sultan Mahmut I presented the Iranian envoy with gifts including the “Imperial monogram” and other valuable items Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Envoy’s Journey and Return

Accompanied by the ceremonial farewell, Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha embarked on his journey to Iran. However, upon his arrival in July 1747, he learned of Nadir Shah’s murder due to internal turmoil. Consequently, Pasha returned to Baghdad with the valuables, awaiting further instructions from Istanbul.

Through these accounts, we gain insight into the elaborate diplomatic rituals and procedures surrounding the exchange of valuable gifts and the responsibilities entrusted to Ottoman envoys during Sultan Mahmut I’s reign.

The Education and Liberation of Raika

The Education and Liberation of Raika A Tale of Hope and Resilience Discovering Raika’s journey from captivity to liberation sheds light on the impact of education and the resilience of the Bulgarian people.

A Scholar’s Journey

Raika’s story begins in Otluk-kui, where her intellect and beauty caught the attention of her community. Recognizing her potential, they pooled resources to send her to a school in Eski-Zara, established by American missionaries turned over to Bulgarian administration.

Missionary Contributions

The invaluable contribution of American and English missionaries in Bulgaria cannot be overstated. Their establishment of schools and guidance in educational organization empowered Bulgarians to create their own educational infrastructure, resulting in widespread access to schooling Tour Packages Bulgaria.

Education and Skill

Raika’s four-year tenure at the school equipped her with a comprehensive education, surpassing that of many English girls. Her proficiency in needlework, cultivated during her time at the school, earned her widespread acclaim, elevating her status in her community.

Return to Admiration

Upon her return home, Raika was hailed as a marvel, admired not only for her education but also for her exceptional needlework and character. Her newfound status as a figure of admiration marked a shift in her community’s perception, recognizing her as a paragon of excellence.

Liberation and Hope

Thanks to Mr. Schuyler’s intervention, Raika was granted bail and eventual freedom from captivity. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In Raika’s journey from a humble village to imprisonment and eventual liberation, we witness the transformative influence of education and the enduring spirit of the Bulgarian people. Her story stands as a beacon of hope, highlighting the potential for growth and resilience even in the darkest of times.

MacGahan's Passionate Advocacy

Evocative Writing Style

MacGahan’s writing, fueled by polemic passion, seamlessly combines emotion with reason. His eruptive style, characterized by vivid epithets, metaphors, and exclamatory sentences, vividly portrays the heroic scenes of the April uprising. Through rich landscape details, he immerses readers in an intense atmosphere, offering deep psychological insights into the tumultuous events of the revolution.

Condemnation of Political Hypocrisy

In the midst of revolutionary fervor, MacGahan fearlessly criticizes the European powers for their hypocritical policies in the Balkans. He directly accuses figures like British Prime Minister Disraeli and Foreign Minister Lord Derby of supporting a corrupt Turkish government under the guise of protecting Balkan peoples. MacGahan exposes the unsustainable nature of Turkish rule and urges the Turkish elite to embrace change. He highlights the irreconcilable conflict between Turkey’s desire for territorial integrity and the need for progressive reform.

Influence on Foreign Policies

MacGahan’s reports have a profound impact on Russian and British foreign policies. By denouncing mass atrocities and advocating for change, he catalyzes shifts in diplomatic approaches toward the Ottoman Empire. His critiques of the status quo prompt a reassessment of traditional power dynamics, paving the way for significant policy changes Turkey Sightseeing.

Catalyst for Democratic Movement

MacGahan’s reports spark a powerful democratic movement known as the Bulgarian agitation in England. In 1876, the April uprising becomes a central issue in English political discourse, uniting diverse segments of society in protest. From the Queen to the working class, people rally together to demand accountability and action regarding the Bulgarian question.

Moral Awakening of an Era

MacGahan’s writings transcend mere documentation; they serve as a moral and political litmus test for the era. Scattered across England and Europe, his reports compel individuals and nations to confront their values and responsibilities. The significance of MacGahan’s work lies not only in its historical documentation but also in its role as a catalyst for political and moral awakening. Through blood-stained pages, he ignites a fervent call for justice and solidarity in the face of oppression.

MacGahan's Passionate Advocacy

Evocative Writing Style

MacGahan’s writing, fueled by polemic passion, seamlessly combines emotion with reason. His eruptive style, characterized by vivid epithets, metaphors, and exclamatory sentences, vividly portrays the heroic scenes of the April uprising. Through rich landscape details, he immerses readers in an intense atmosphere, offering deep psychological insights into the tumultuous events of the revolution.

Condemnation of Political Hypocrisy

In the midst of revolutionary fervor, MacGahan fearlessly criticizes the European powers for their hypocritical policies in the Balkans. He directly accuses figures like British Prime Minister Disraeli and Foreign Minister Lord Derby of supporting a corrupt Turkish government under the guise of protecting Balkan peoples. MacGahan exposes the unsustainable nature of Turkish rule and urges the Turkish elite to embrace change. He highlights the irreconcilable conflict between Turkey’s desire for territorial integrity and the need for progressive reform.

Influence on Foreign Policies

MacGahan’s reports have a profound impact on Russian and British foreign policies. By denouncing mass atrocities and advocating for change, he catalyzes shifts in diplomatic approaches toward the Ottoman Empire. His critiques of the status quo prompt a reassessment of traditional power dynamics, paving the way for significant policy changes Turkey Sightseeing.

Catalyst for Democratic Movement

MacGahan’s reports spark a powerful democratic movement known as the Bulgarian agitation in England. In 1876, the April uprising becomes a central issue in English political discourse, uniting diverse segments of society in protest. From the Queen to the working class, people rally together to demand accountability and action regarding the Bulgarian question.

Moral Awakening of an Era

MacGahan’s writings transcend mere documentation; they serve as a moral and political litmus test for the era. Scattered across England and Europe, his reports compel individuals and nations to confront their values and responsibilities. The significance of MacGahan’s work lies not only in its historical documentation but also in its role as a catalyst for political and moral awakening. Through blood-stained pages, he ignites a fervent call for justice and solidarity in the face of oppression.

MacGahan's Passionate Advocacy

Evocative Writing Style

MacGahan’s writing, fueled by polemic passion, seamlessly combines emotion with reason. His eruptive style, characterized by vivid epithets, metaphors, and exclamatory sentences, vividly portrays the heroic scenes of the April uprising. Through rich landscape details, he immerses readers in an intense atmosphere, offering deep psychological insights into the tumultuous events of the revolution.

Condemnation of Political Hypocrisy

In the midst of revolutionary fervor, MacGahan fearlessly criticizes the European powers for their hypocritical policies in the Balkans. He directly accuses figures like British Prime Minister Disraeli and Foreign Minister Lord Derby of supporting a corrupt Turkish government under the guise of protecting Balkan peoples. MacGahan exposes the unsustainable nature of Turkish rule and urges the Turkish elite to embrace change. He highlights the irreconcilable conflict between Turkey’s desire for territorial integrity and the need for progressive reform.

Influence on Foreign Policies

MacGahan’s reports have a profound impact on Russian and British foreign policies. By denouncing mass atrocities and advocating for change, he catalyzes shifts in diplomatic approaches toward the Ottoman Empire. His critiques of the status quo prompt a reassessment of traditional power dynamics, paving the way for significant policy changes Turkey Sightseeing.

Catalyst for Democratic Movement

MacGahan’s reports spark a powerful democratic movement known as the Bulgarian agitation in England. In 1876, the April uprising becomes a central issue in English political discourse, uniting diverse segments of society in protest. From the Queen to the working class, people rally together to demand accountability and action regarding the Bulgarian question.

Moral Awakening of an Era

MacGahan’s writings transcend mere documentation; they serve as a moral and political litmus test for the era. Scattered across England and Europe, his reports compel individuals and nations to confront their values and responsibilities. The significance of MacGahan’s work lies not only in its historical documentation but also in its role as a catalyst for political and moral awakening. Through blood-stained pages, he ignites a fervent call for justice and solidarity in the face of oppression.

Soviet Influence Across Sectors

Cultural and Educational Alignment

Culture and education in Bulgaria have undergone Sovietization. Hundreds of Russian books have been translated into Bulgarian and widely published. The educational system closely follows the Soviet model. The Bulgarian education statute of July 1959 is essentially a copy of the Soviet law from December 1958. Its primary aim, as reported by Party Secretary Todor Zhivkov, is to indoctrinate future generations, foster animosity towards opponents of Communist ideals, and emphasize the teaching of Marxism-Leninism.

Socio-Economic System Mirrors the USSR

Bulgaria’s social and economic structure mirrors that of the USSR. Industry is entirely nationalized and under Communist state administration. Both domestic and foreign trade are state-controlled, and all banking and credit institutions are state-owned. Agricultural land and the economy have been collectivized using forceful methods similar to those employed in Soviet Russia in the early 1930s. Bulgaria’s economic ties with the USSR are substantial, with production aligned to meet Soviet demands. The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (COMECON) signals a gradual economic integration of the entire Soviet bloc Guided Istanbul Tours.

Recent Economic Challenges and Opposition

Exploitation has increased in recent years, particularly with the proclamation of the “big leap forward” in October 1958, seemingly instructed by Moscow. This disrupted the economic system, resulting in reduced production of consumer goods and food, exacerbating the people’s misery. The “big leap forward” has stirred opposition across society, leading to passive resistance and sabotage, countered by relentless police terror. Tens of thousands are now in prisons and concentration camps in Bulgaria.

Continuous Soviet Intervention

The Sovietization of Bulgaria spans political, legal, administrative, military, cultural, social, and economic domains. This persistent intervention violates the Peace Treaty of February 10, 1947, and the United Nations Charter. The current Bulgarian government was imposed by the Soviet Army and has never faced free elections or public ratification. Consequently, it does not truly represent the will of the Bulgarian people and lacks independence, serving as a tool of Moscow.

Soviet Influence Across Sectors

Cultural and Educational Alignment

Culture and education in Bulgaria have undergone Sovietization. Hundreds of Russian books have been translated into Bulgarian and widely published. The educational system closely follows the Soviet model. The Bulgarian education statute of July 1959 is essentially a copy of the Soviet law from December 1958. Its primary aim, as reported by Party Secretary Todor Zhivkov, is to indoctrinate future generations, foster animosity towards opponents of Communist ideals, and emphasize the teaching of Marxism-Leninism.

Socio-Economic System Mirrors the USSR

Bulgaria’s social and economic structure mirrors that of the USSR. Industry is entirely nationalized and under Communist state administration. Both domestic and foreign trade are state-controlled, and all banking and credit institutions are state-owned. Agricultural land and the economy have been collectivized using forceful methods similar to those employed in Soviet Russia in the early 1930s. Bulgaria’s economic ties with the USSR are substantial, with production aligned to meet Soviet demands. The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (COMECON) signals a gradual economic integration of the entire Soviet bloc Guided Istanbul Tours.

Recent Economic Challenges and Opposition

Exploitation has increased in recent years, particularly with the proclamation of the “big leap forward” in October 1958, seemingly instructed by Moscow. This disrupted the economic system, resulting in reduced production of consumer goods and food, exacerbating the people’s misery. The “big leap forward” has stirred opposition across society, leading to passive resistance and sabotage, countered by relentless police terror. Tens of thousands are now in prisons and concentration camps in Bulgaria.

Continuous Soviet Intervention

The Sovietization of Bulgaria spans political, legal, administrative, military, cultural, social, and economic domains. This persistent intervention violates the Peace Treaty of February 10, 1947, and the United Nations Charter. The current Bulgarian government was imposed by the Soviet Army and has never faced free elections or public ratification. Consequently, it does not truly represent the will of the Bulgarian people and lacks independence, serving as a tool of Moscow.

Cultural Revolution and Agricultural Changes

The Cultural Revolution Unleashed

The political shift on September 9, 1944, ushered in what became known as the “cultural revolution,” aiming to impose Marxism-Leninism as the state ideology across all aspects of life. Borrowing from Soviet traditions, the pretext of combating “pro-fascist ideas” led to the dismissal of numerous teachers, professors, and university students who faced expulsion without credible accusations of fascist actions. The totalitarian state enforced unparalleled censorship and control over cultural activities, banning any “western influence” such as books, music, movies, and fashion, branding them as “ideological diversion.” Intellectuals and men of culture faced repression for their free thinking and pursuit of intellectual independence City Tours Istanbul.

Coercive Agricultural Cooperation

Simultaneous with political changes was the launch of mass agricultural cooperation at the end of 1948. This initiative employed physical violence, political persecution, and psychological pressure on farmers. While the communist regime granted considerable privileges to party members, the concept of being an “active fighter against fascism and capitalism” became a pathway to career advancement for hundreds of thousands. Under Stalin’s influence, the ruling elite turned against some of their comrades using the Bolshevik slogan of “persecution of the enemy with a party membership card.” Prominent communists, including Traicho Rostov, the former First Secretary of the Central Committee, fell victim to these internal purges.

Leadership Transitions and Concentration of Power

In the summer of 1949, Prime Minister Georgi Dimitrov, known for his anti-fascist activities, passed away in the Soviet Union, leaving a complex legacy in Bulgarian and world history. His successor, Vasil Kolarov, also met an untimely death in February 1950. Valko Chervenkov, who spent years in Soviet exile and gained favor with Stalin, assumed the role of Prime Minister and leader of the Communist Party. Elected Chairman of the National Council of the Fatherland Front, Chervenkov consolidated power, holding sway over the entire apparatus.

The aftermath of September 9, 1944, brought about a cultural revolution and coercive agricultural changes, altering the fabric of Bulgarian society. Internal purges and leadership transitions marked a tumultuous period, setting the stage for the concentrated power wielded by Valko Chervenkov in the years that followed.

Cultural Revolution and Agricultural Changes

The Cultural Revolution Unleashed

The political shift on September 9, 1944, ushered in what became known as the “cultural revolution,” aiming to impose Marxism-Leninism as the state ideology across all aspects of life. Borrowing from Soviet traditions, the pretext of combating “pro-fascist ideas” led to the dismissal of numerous teachers, professors, and university students who faced expulsion without credible accusations of fascist actions. The totalitarian state enforced unparalleled censorship and control over cultural activities, banning any “western influence” such as books, music, movies, and fashion, branding them as “ideological diversion.” Intellectuals and men of culture faced repression for their free thinking and pursuit of intellectual independence City Tours Istanbul.

Coercive Agricultural Cooperation

Simultaneous with political changes was the launch of mass agricultural cooperation at the end of 1948. This initiative employed physical violence, political persecution, and psychological pressure on farmers. While the communist regime granted considerable privileges to party members, the concept of being an “active fighter against fascism and capitalism” became a pathway to career advancement for hundreds of thousands. Under Stalin’s influence, the ruling elite turned against some of their comrades using the Bolshevik slogan of “persecution of the enemy with a party membership card.” Prominent communists, including Traicho Rostov, the former First Secretary of the Central Committee, fell victim to these internal purges.

Leadership Transitions and Concentration of Power

In the summer of 1949, Prime Minister Georgi Dimitrov, known for his anti-fascist activities, passed away in the Soviet Union, leaving a complex legacy in Bulgarian and world history. His successor, Vasil Kolarov, also met an untimely death in February 1950. Valko Chervenkov, who spent years in Soviet exile and gained favor with Stalin, assumed the role of Prime Minister and leader of the Communist Party. Elected Chairman of the National Council of the Fatherland Front, Chervenkov consolidated power, holding sway over the entire apparatus.

The aftermath of September 9, 1944, brought about a cultural revolution and coercive agricultural changes, altering the fabric of Bulgarian society. Internal purges and leadership transitions marked a tumultuous period, setting the stage for the concentrated power wielded by Valko Chervenkov in the years that followed.

Turkish Villagers Pillage and Seize Livestock in Bulgarian Towns

A Climate of Fear and Exploitation

This article delves into the distressing reality faced by Bulgarian villagers, focusing on the rampant pillaging and livestock seizures perpetrated by Turkish neighbors. The pervasive climate of fear, economic exploitation, and the lack of authority figures to curb these offenses paints a bleak picture of rural life in Bulgaria.

Cattle Seizures and Denial of Justice

The first case study takes us to Perustitsa, where survivors of massacres and house burnings find themselves victims once again. The Turks from the neighboring village of Ustuna seize the remaining cattle, refusing to restore them even in the face of appeals for justice. The villagers’ pleas go unheard, showcasing the impunity with which such acts are committed.

The Helpless Mudir and Stolen Horses

The article shifts to Avrat-Alan, where Turkish neighbors unabashedly seize six horses from fields merely a mile away. Despite the injustice, the Mudir of Avrat-Alan claims powerlessness, citing the lack of authority over the offending Turks. The narrative highlights the pervasive fear among local authorities and their inability to protect villagers from such rampant aggression Bulgaria Tour.

A Brave Attempt Met with Violence

At Otluk-kui, a villager’s attempt to reclaim his cattle ends in a fresh sabre cut to his head. Armed with an order from the Mudir, his endeavor to retrieve his livestock exposes the violent reprisals faced by those who dare challenge the Turkish pillagers. This incident underscores the physical risks associated with seeking justice.

Urgent Need for Intervention and Protection

The article concludes with a stark portrayal of the unchecked aggression faced by Bulgarian villagers at the hands of Turkish neighbors. It calls for urgent intervention, emphasizing the need for a robust mechanism to ensure justice, protect livestock, and empower local authorities to curb these offenses. The prevailing climate of fear and economic exploitation must be addressed to safeguard the well-being and livelihoods of Bulgarian villagers.

A Plea for Empathy and Global Awareness

In a final reflection, the article urges global awareness and empathy for the plight of Bulgarian villagers. It calls on international bodies, humanitarian organizations, and concerned individuals to unite in condemning these acts of aggression, amplifying the voices of the oppressed, and working towards a future where rural communities can thrive without fear of pillaging and exploitation.

The Verbal Joust

Diplomatic Duels in Otluk-kui

Amidst the ravages of Otluk-kui, a unique diplomatic encounter unfolded, revealing the power dynamics and the verbal sparring between Mr. Schuyler and the Mudir. This episode, characterized by strategic exchanges and veiled threats, sheds light on the delicate dance of diplomacy in the face of atrocity.

Diplomatic Parry and Riposte Mudir’s Justification and Consul’s Retort

The stage was set for a verbal duel when the Mudir responded callously, asserting that the misery befallen upon the people of Otluk-kui was a consequence of their own actions. This declaration, laden with blame, presented an opportunity for Mr. Schuyler to launch a counteroffensive. Using Antonio as the messenger, Mr. Schuyler conveyed the Consul’s displeasure at the Mudir’s attribution of misery to the victims.

The Consul’s calculated response exhibited a diplomatic finesse that both condemned the Mudir’s callousness and appealed to a higher authority—the Sultan. By invoking the sublime goodness of the Sultan, Mr. Schuyler subtly signaled that the blame lay not with the suffering people but with the unjust actions perpetrated against them. The implicit warning about the Sultan turning attention to errant Mudirs added a layer of caution, creating a palpable tension in the diplomatic discourse.

Diplomatic Stratagem Utilizing Verbal Tactics for Change

The verbal exchange, orchestrated through Antonio, unfolded as a carefully choreographed dance of words. The Consul, through this indirect approach, managed to convey disapproval and an expectation of change without directly confronting the Mudir. By strategically employing compliments, veiled threats, and subtle admonitions, Mr. Schuyler attempted to shape the narrative surrounding Otluk-kui and its afflicted residents.

The Mudir, having endured this prolonged diplomatic joust, was left in a state of unease and awe. The encounter concluded with an announcement that the interview had concluded, leaving the Mudir to ponder the implications of this nuanced exchange. The diplomatic maneuver revealed that beneath the surface of formalities and polite discourse Travel Bulgaria, a silent struggle for justice and accountability was unfolding.

In the aftermath of this verbal joust, the fate of Otluk-kui remained uncertain. The diplomatic chess game continued, with each move carefully calculated to expose the truth, bring relief to the suffering, and hold those responsible accountable. The echoes of this exchange lingered, a testament to the intricate web of diplomatic maneuvers undertaken in the pursuit of justice in Otluk-kui.

Graves decorated with flowers

Besides, many of the survivors are women, who have made fruitless efforts to keep the bodies of loved ones covered with a little earth. We had ample proof that wherever bones could be identified, they were tenderly cared for. We saw many well- kept graves decorated with flowers.

We saw others that had been uncovered by the rain or the dogs, leaving parts of the skeleton exposed, that were still decorated with flowers. We even saw skulls lying on the ground, within a doorway or a garden wall, with a bouquet of flowers lying upon them, as though some one was caring for them, and was yet loth to bury them away out of sight. I saw one half buried, with the face upward, and its hollow eyes gazing reproachfully up at the sunny sky, with a bouquet carefully placed in its mouth ; but most of these skeletons and bones have nobody to look after them.

Of the eight or nine thousand people who made up the population of the place, there are only twelve or fifteen hundred left, and they have neither tools to dig graves with nor strength to use spades if they had them. But why have the Turkish authorities not buried them out of sight ? The Turkish authorities will tell you they have buried them, and that there were very few to bury Istanbul Private Tours.

Of all the cruel, brutal, ferocious things the Turks ever did, the massacre of Batak is among the worst! Of all the mad, foolish things they ever did, leaving these bodies to lie here rotting for three months unburied is probably the maddest and most foolish ! But this village was in an isolated, out-of-the- way place, difficult of access, and they never thought Europeans would go poking their noses here, so they cynically said, “ These Christians are not even worth burial, let the dogs eat them.”

We talked to many of the people, but we had not the heart to listen to many of their stories in detail, and we restricted ourselves to simply asking them the numberlost in each family. No other method would probably give a better idea of the fearful character of the massacre, and the way in which whole families were swept out of existence.

Incredulous and sceptical mind

Nobody can understand the cool, plausible, conscientious way in which a Turk can lie until he has seen what I have seen during this trip through Bulgaria. I have travelled a good deal, and seen something of the world; but I am willing to confess that until I came here I had no idea of the extent to which human duplicity could be carried. The honest, straight-forward way in which these people will lie to you is simply past belief, and will impose upon the most incredulous and sceptical mind.

There is an honesty, an earnestness, a seriousness in the tones of the voice, an evident knowledge of the necessities of the situation, which carries conviction with it, and convinces you that they see and know and feel about it exactly as you do. The right is so evident to their mind as well as yours, that it is impossible they should go wrong : and it is not until you see with your own eyes that they have been coolly, deliberately, and with premeditation, lying to you in the most shameless manner, that you begin to fathom the depths of their duplicity.

There are cases like the present, in which one finds out the truth; but generally you have no means of verifying what has been said to you, and of necessity you are obliged to believe. It requires a special habit and training of mind to be able to disbelieve every word which is said to you ; a habit of mind which Europeans as a rule have not got, which they cannot get, unless brought up in it from infancy, and which is rarely obtained in Europe Guided Tours Turkey.

This is why Europeans are continually deceived and overreached in their dealings with Orientals. The reader will say, perhaps, that I, the writer of these lines, seem to have learnt it pretty well already. Not at all. I know that the Mutld-Serif of Philippopolis, or any other Turk, can make me believe any number of lies, unless I have ready to hand the means of dis-proving them. I feel I am a perfect child in their hands.

I could no more have doubted Kiana Pacha and Edib Effendi when they said there was nobody killed at Batak than I could have doubted that the sun would rise to-morrow, had I not been to Batak and seen 6,000 or 7,000 bodies lying there. So far from returning the cattle to the destitute villagers, the Turks of Ustuna, hearing that we had been to Perustitza, and fearing we might make urgent representations on the subject, drove them all off to another part of the country, and sold them.

Between Russia and the Ottoman Empire

On 3rd March 1878 a preliminary peace treaty was signed between Russia and the Ottoman Empire in the Constantinople suburb of San Stefano. But the Western Great Powers – and most of all the United Kingdom and Austro-Hungary – were concerned that a big Slav state in the middle of the Balkan Peninsula would become an important fulcrum of the Russian influence. That is why the Congress of Ber-lin held in the summer of 1878 disrupted the territorial integrity of the newly created state to satisfy self-interested political ambitions. So Thrace – which was given the name Eastern Roumelia – was left in subordination to the Sublime Porte. Macedonia remained under Turkish power Holidays Bulgaria. Indigenous Bulgarian lands were included in the boundaries of Serbia and Romania. Thus Bulgaria was ruptured into five pieces. In fact, the Congress of Berlin set the charge of irreconcilable national and territorial contradictions in the relations between the young Balkan states…

The Third Bulgarian Kingdom Between Two Fateful Treaties and Through Two National Catastrophes: 1878-1919

The Liberation

Alarmed by the increasing prestige of Russia – as demonstrated by the eventual establishment of a Greater Bulgaria obedient to the will of the Tsar – the Western Powers convened the Congress of Berlin (July 1878) which revised the treaty of San Stefano. Its chairman, the German Chancellor Otto von Bismark, roared: “Gentlemen, we have gathered here to ensure the European peace and not the happiness of the Bulgarians!” Well, that far with the Bulgarian happiness… Northern Bulgaria, or the Bulgarian Principality, became a vassal state dependent on the Sultan and was to be governed by an elected prince. Macedonia and Lower Thrace were tached from the hew kingdom, thus depriving it

of a valuable outlet to the Aegean, and under the name Eastern Roumelia, with a governor designated by the Sublime Porte, would depend politically and militarily on Turkey.

Alexander’s sarcophagus

The colouring has faded very much since the monument was unearthed. It is generally called Alexander’s sarcophagus, but it has not been possible as yet to decide whose remains it contained. Some aver that it enclosed the corpse of a Persian satrap who, after fighting hard for his country, at last deserted and went over to the Macedonian conqueror, who admitted him to his intimacy. One thing, however, is certain, namely, that this, which is one of the most important remaining monuments of Greek antiquity, is the work of an artist contemporary with Lysippus, who flourished towards the end of the fourth century B.c.

This sarcophagus, which is unique both as regards style and preservation, is modelled to represent an elongated Greek temple, with its friezes, pediments, etc.

Greeks and Persians

South Side.—The sculptures on this side represent a cavalry engagement between the Greeks and Persians at the battle of Issus, or Arbela. The Greeks are either nude, save for a light chlamys, or else are clad in armour, and wear variously the helmet and the Macedonian cap; while the Persians are dressed in trunk-hose and tunics with a short tight-sleeved cloak hung from the neck down their backs. The Greek horses are ridden barebacked with only a bit and bridle, and an occasional breast- band ; the Persian chargers, on the other hand, are richly caparisoned. The figures, at first sight, appear somewhat confusedly arranged, but a closer inspection reveals five distinct and symmetrical groups. The central one is formed of four figures—a Greek horseman ; a barbarian kneeling and holding his arms up as if asking quarter; a barbarian archer likewise on his knees ; and another towards the left, standing.

The two other groups, one on each side of the central one, are each composed of two figures; that on the right represents a hand-to-hand encounter between a Persian horseman and a Greek foot-soldier, and that on the left a combat between a Greek and Persian foot-soldier. Of the two remaining groups that on the left is of a Greek horseman with couched lance, charging a Persian who is struggling to get clear of his fallen charger; that towards the right is of a Persian horseman receiving a lance-thrust from a mounted Greek general, and, with hands still clutching the reins, falling into the arms of his attendant shield-bearer. On the ground are five symmetrically arranged figures of killed or wounded men.

Head.—The carvings here represent an incident of warfare, and are, like those just described, noted for their symmetrical grouping. In the centre is a Persian horseman about to spear a wounded Greek lying on the ground, and covering himself with his buckler; to the right and left, respectively, is a single – handed combat between a Greek and a Persian.

Dancing dervishes at Bahariah

There is another convent of dancing dervishes at Bahariah, near Ayub, up the Golden Horn. Performance every Wednesday, soon after the midday prayer.

The Rufdl and Badavl, or Howling Dervishes, are to be seen at Tatavla, near Pera, every Sunday afternoon, at 8.30 (Turkish time); and at Sku- tari every Thursday at the same hour. Admission 5 piastres per head. Travellers should stay through the performance, at the close of which the children in the neighbourhood are made to lie down on the floor, when the head dervish walks over them, his passage over their bodies being supposed to ensure them immunity from all the ills that infantile flesh is heir to. The dervishes do not perform during the month of Ramazan.

Turkish Festivals.—These are all religious ones, and are the occasion of the Sultan proceeding in state to the Seraglio or the Dolmah Baghcheh Palace. The feast of Hirka-i-Sherif (Holy Mantle Day) occurs on the 15th of Bamazan, the month of fasting by day and feasting by night. Shecker Byram (Sweetmeat Feast), lasting three days, falls at the end of Bamazan; and Curban Byram (Sacrifice Feast), lasting four days, and commemorative of Abraham’s sacrifice, falls at a stated period after Shecker Byram. The Mevlud (Prophet’s birthday). The Surey Emin, or despatch of the holy caravan with presents for the shrines at Mecca and the conveyance of pilgrims, takes place some four weeks before Bamazan sets in. On the 10 th Muharrem the Persians celebrate at Valideh Khan, in Stambul, the martyrdom of Hussein, son of Ali. The ceremony begins soon after sunset, and travellers are admitted without difficulty.

Besides the above-mentioned festivals there are some illuminations of the city, in honour of the Sultan’s birthday, the anniversary of his accession to the throne private istanbul tour, and the anniversary of the Constitution on 23 rd July. On a fine night they are worth seeing. A good plan is to go by steamer or launch to Therapia, then come back to Bechictash, and drive up to Yildiz Kiosk, thence through Nichan-Tash back to the hotel.

SHRINES AND MOSQUES

Byzantium, from remote times downwards, was famed far and wide for the number of its temples, shrines, and statues of divinities; so much so indeed that the people of northern nations were wont to allude to the city as the ‘dwelling of the gods But when Constantine raised the cross on the seven-hilled Constantinople, the greater part of these heathen fanes were converted into Christian churches; and his successors in their turn erected,in addition, such a number of churches and monasteries that a distinguished writer on Constantinople states that there were as many churches in the city as there are days in the year. In these numerous churches were kept the relics of the prophets, apostles, evangelists, martyrs and saints, brought from various parts of the East. But in 1453 the crescent superseded the cross on many of these churches, and first of all on that of St. Sophia, which were converted into mosques and have remained as such down to the present day. All the other large mosques, not originally Christian churches, were built by the Turks, more or less on the model of St. Sophia, which some of them equal, if not actually excel, in beauty and chasteness of design and ornamentation.

As all male visitors entering the mosques and tombs have to take off their hats, those who are afraid of catching cold had better take with them a skull-cap or a fez, which are allowed to be worn; umbrellas, sticks, and kodaks must be left with the custodians at the entrance. Slippers must be worn over the shoes, and as those provided by the attendants are often too large, dirty, and uncomfortable, travellers may provide their own if they desire. Travellers had better be provided with Turkish money, and never try to change big coins, because change is hardly ever given. Slippers are provided free of charge.

During prayer – times strangers are not allowed in the body of the mosques with the faithful; but they may go into a corner of the mosque and see the whole service, which is very interesting and imposing.

ZLATYU BOYAJIEV' PERMANENT EXHIBITION

ZLATYU BOYAJIEV’ PERMANENT EXHIBITION

(Stoyan Chomakov House), 18 Saborna Street

The exhibition displaying the work of the great artist Zlatyu Boyadjiev (1903 – 1976) was opened in 1980 in this representative period-house. The multitude of canvases, some of imposing size, is displayed in all rooms of the big two-storey house. In the courtyard in front of the house there is monument to the honoured artist .

The noble Revival house, where the exhibition has been set out, was built for Dr. Stoyan Chomakov in 1860. It was a very modern-looking house for its time although it was a solid sym-metrically designed building with facades decorated in the classical style widely spread in Europe at the time. Dr.Chomakov was one of the first academically trained physicians in Plovdiv and was a champion for an autonomous Bulgarian church in the Revival bulgaria private tours.

After the Liberation the heirs gave the house as a present to King Ferdinand. In the 50s of the 20th c. it housed a branch of the Ivan Vazov Public Library until the time it was entirely renovated and given over for the setting up of the exhibition of the works by Zlatyu Boyadjiev.

‘GEORGI BOJILOV – SLONA’ PERMANENT EXHIBITION

(Skobelev House), 1 Knyaz Tseretelev Street

This Revival house is adjacent to the Hippocrates Pharmacy. Kostadin Kaftanjiyata, a Bulgarian from the town of Stara Zagora, built it in the 60s of the 19th century. In the years after the Liberation and until her death here lived Olga Sko- beleva (1823 -1880), mother of the Russian General Skobelev. She became known for her charity work in aid of the victims of the Turkish atrocities in South Bulgaria during the April Rising and the Liberation War. In gratitude for her concern for the orphaned children in Thrace, the Bulgarians have called her ‘Mother Skobeleva’. A memorial park has been dedicated to her off the Istanbul highway in the outskirts of Plovdiv.

At present the house is occupied by the Plovdiv branch of the ‘Future for Bulgaria’ Foundation. It was with the contribution of the foundation that in 2003 a permanent exhibition of the work of the prominent artist Georgi Bojilov-Slona was arranged. The end-wall of the house, facing Saborna Street is decorated with a commemorative panel dedicated to the artist and executed in paintings and mosaics to the design of Dimiter Kirov.

Apart from the period houses of great artistic and architectural value, Old Plovdiv possesses some buildings of lesser architectural merit but associated with significant events in the past. These are historic places marked with commemorative inscriptions. On Saborna Street opposite the Holy Virgin Cathedral stands the house of Dr. Rashko Petrov, a physician with a medical degree and a prominent revolutionary, who participated in the First Bulgarian Legion in Belgrade in 1862.

There he became friends with Vasil Levski – the ‘Apostle of Liberty’, who often stayed at Dr. Petrov’s house when in Plovdiv. Right after the Liberation War in 1878 the house was the seat of the interim Russian representation headed by the Imperial Commissioner Prince Alexander Dondukov-Korsakov. Next-door to Dr Rashko’s place is the house where Dr Konstantin Stoilov, an eminent Bulgarian politician and statesman, Prime Minister of Bulgaria from 1894 to 1899, was born.