Importance of Nadir Shah's Throne

Hammer’s history sheds light on the significance of the protection of Hicaz and the diplomatic exchanges with envoys sent there. The Ottoman Empire’s decision to send gifts worth 386,402 piasters in exchange for Nadir Shah’s throne underscores its importance. Considering that one gold coin equaled fifty piasters at that time, this amount represented a substantial sum.

Return of Ottoman Gifts

Despite the valuable gifts sent by the Ottoman Empire, including the construction of the Ahmed III library, they were brought back to Istanbul following Nadir Shah’s death. However, Nadir Shah’s throne remained in Baghdad for a period before eventually reaching Istanbul in 1758. It was officially registered in the treasury book two years later, in 1760 Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Izzi Suleyman Efendi’s Account

During the time Nadir Shah’s throne was in Baghdad, Izzi Suleyman Efendi, the private historian of the palace, provided limited information about it compared to the detailed account of the gifts exchanged. Izzi emphasized the importance of the incoming gifts over the outgoing ones, as reflected in his annals.

Ottoman Envoy’s Description

The Ottoman envoy, Mustafa Nazif Efendi, described the throne as approximately 20 feet in height and 10 feet in width, situated within a six-columned Persian-style tent. He received the throne and a letter from Nadir Shah, which he conveyed to Sultan Mahmut I in Istanbul. Despite his swift journey, the throne itself arrived in Istanbul a decade later, ten years after the envoy’s visit.

Through Hammer’s history and Izzi Suleyman Efendi’s annals, we gain insight into the diplomatic intricacies surrounding the exchange of Nadir Shah’s throne and the lasting impact it had on Ottoman-Iranian relations.

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.

Investigating Turkish Atrocities in Bulgaria

Mission of Investigation

Arriving in Philippopolis, the principal town in the region ravaged by the Bashi-Bazouks, I embarked on a mission to uncover the truth behind the atrocities gripping Europe’s attention. With Philippopolis serving as a focal point, reliable information about the ongoing horrors could be gleaned. Joining me in this endeavor were Mr. Baring, who had already commenced his investigation, and Mr. Schuyler, the American Consul-General, tasked with a dual purpose: investigating the atrocities and exploring measures to protect American missionary families scattered across Bulgaria.

Disparity in Consular Presence

Despite the gravity of the situation, it struck me as peculiar that while Austria, Greece, Russia, and France all maintained consular representation in Philippopolis, the absence of an English agent was glaring. While other governments received detailed reports from their consuls, the English government, lacking a presence in Philippopolis, remained relatively uninformed. The sole English consul stationed in Adrianople, though well-intentioned, was incapacitated by poor health, leaving England at a disadvantage in terms of timely and accurate intelligence Turkey Sightseeing.

Urgent Need for Information

The absence of English representation underscores the pressing need for comprehensive and up-to-date information on the atrocities unfolding in Bulgaria. In an age where well-informed newspapers play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, the lack of direct English involvement leaves a void that jeopardizes the dissemination of accurate accounts of the events. As other governments and newspapers diligently gather data, England risks lagging behind in its understanding of the situation and formulating an appropriate response.

As I delve deeper into my investigation, it becomes increasingly evident that the atrocities in Bulgaria demand urgent attention and a concerted international response. The disparity in consular presence highlights the need for greater English involvement in gathering information and shaping policy decisions. In the face of unspeakable horrors, it is imperative that all nations, including England, actively engage in addressing the crisis and advocating for justice and accountability.

Investigating Turkish Atrocities in Bulgaria

Mission of Investigation

Arriving in Philippopolis, the principal town in the region ravaged by the Bashi-Bazouks, I embarked on a mission to uncover the truth behind the atrocities gripping Europe’s attention. With Philippopolis serving as a focal point, reliable information about the ongoing horrors could be gleaned. Joining me in this endeavor were Mr. Baring, who had already commenced his investigation, and Mr. Schuyler, the American Consul-General, tasked with a dual purpose: investigating the atrocities and exploring measures to protect American missionary families scattered across Bulgaria.

Disparity in Consular Presence

Despite the gravity of the situation, it struck me as peculiar that while Austria, Greece, Russia, and France all maintained consular representation in Philippopolis, the absence of an English agent was glaring. While other governments received detailed reports from their consuls, the English government, lacking a presence in Philippopolis, remained relatively uninformed. The sole English consul stationed in Adrianople, though well-intentioned, was incapacitated by poor health, leaving England at a disadvantage in terms of timely and accurate intelligence Turkey Sightseeing.

Urgent Need for Information

The absence of English representation underscores the pressing need for comprehensive and up-to-date information on the atrocities unfolding in Bulgaria. In an age where well-informed newspapers play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, the lack of direct English involvement leaves a void that jeopardizes the dissemination of accurate accounts of the events. As other governments and newspapers diligently gather data, England risks lagging behind in its understanding of the situation and formulating an appropriate response.

As I delve deeper into my investigation, it becomes increasingly evident that the atrocities in Bulgaria demand urgent attention and a concerted international response. The disparity in consular presence highlights the need for greater English involvement in gathering information and shaping policy decisions. In the face of unspeakable horrors, it is imperative that all nations, including England, actively engage in addressing the crisis and advocating for justice and accountability.

Investigating Turkish Atrocities in Bulgaria

Mission of Investigation

Arriving in Philippopolis, the principal town in the region ravaged by the Bashi-Bazouks, I embarked on a mission to uncover the truth behind the atrocities gripping Europe’s attention. With Philippopolis serving as a focal point, reliable information about the ongoing horrors could be gleaned. Joining me in this endeavor were Mr. Baring, who had already commenced his investigation, and Mr. Schuyler, the American Consul-General, tasked with a dual purpose: investigating the atrocities and exploring measures to protect American missionary families scattered across Bulgaria.

Disparity in Consular Presence

Despite the gravity of the situation, it struck me as peculiar that while Austria, Greece, Russia, and France all maintained consular representation in Philippopolis, the absence of an English agent was glaring. While other governments received detailed reports from their consuls, the English government, lacking a presence in Philippopolis, remained relatively uninformed. The sole English consul stationed in Adrianople, though well-intentioned, was incapacitated by poor health, leaving England at a disadvantage in terms of timely and accurate intelligence Turkey Sightseeing.

Urgent Need for Information

The absence of English representation underscores the pressing need for comprehensive and up-to-date information on the atrocities unfolding in Bulgaria. In an age where well-informed newspapers play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, the lack of direct English involvement leaves a void that jeopardizes the dissemination of accurate accounts of the events. As other governments and newspapers diligently gather data, England risks lagging behind in its understanding of the situation and formulating an appropriate response.

As I delve deeper into my investigation, it becomes increasingly evident that the atrocities in Bulgaria demand urgent attention and a concerted international response. The disparity in consular presence highlights the need for greater English involvement in gathering information and shaping policy decisions. In the face of unspeakable horrors, it is imperative that all nations, including England, actively engage in addressing the crisis and advocating for justice and accountability.

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.

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.

The Reigns of Chervenkov and Zhivkov

Chervenkov’s Rule (1949-1953)

Valko Chervenkov ruled Bulgaria from 1949 to 1953, a period that witnessed the implementation of the first five-year plan for national economic development, known as the peripetia. During this time, Chervenkov introduced typical features of a socialist society, mirroring the Soviet Union. While the era saw grand construction projects on a national scale, such as roads, dams, plants, and buildings, Chervenkov’s leadership also marked the establishment of a “Stalinist personality cult” in Bulgaria, with his own persona elevated above all else.

Bulgaria and the Warsaw Treaty Organization

In 1955, the Warsaw Treaty Organization was founded on May 14th as a military and political union among eight socialist states, serving as a counterbalance to the existing North Atlantic Treaty Organization. This event further intensified the division of Europe during the “cold war” years, with Bulgaria positioned behind the “iron curtain.”

The Zhivkov Era

Following Stalin’s death in 1953, Bulgaria’s communist leadership, including Todor Zhivkov, had to moderate the regime. Todor Zhivkov, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party, quickly adapted to the changing political landscape, aligning with the new Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev. Khrushchev’s criticism of Stalin’s “personality cult” at the Twentieth Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in February 1956 had a profound impact City Tours Istanbul.

Rise of Todor Zhivkov

Todor Zhivkov attracted Khrushchev’s attention, and he began consolidating party and state power. The “Zhivkov era” spanned seven five-year plans for national economic development, marking a significant period in recent Bulgarian history. Until November 10, 1989, Zhivkov remained unchallenged at the helm of the Bulgarian Communist Party, serving as its First or General Secretary of the Central Committee. His leadership of over three decades solidified absolute and undivided control over the party and the state.

The periods of Chervenkov and Zhivkov marked Bulgaria’s journey under communism, witnessing economic plans, political shifts, and a prolonged era of undisputed leadership by Todor Zhivkov.

The Reigns of Chervenkov and Zhivkov

Chervenkov’s Rule (1949-1953)

Valko Chervenkov ruled Bulgaria from 1949 to 1953, a period that witnessed the implementation of the first five-year plan for national economic development, known as the peripetia. During this time, Chervenkov introduced typical features of a socialist society, mirroring the Soviet Union. While the era saw grand construction projects on a national scale, such as roads, dams, plants, and buildings, Chervenkov’s leadership also marked the establishment of a “Stalinist personality cult” in Bulgaria, with his own persona elevated above all else.

Bulgaria and the Warsaw Treaty Organization

In 1955, the Warsaw Treaty Organization was founded on May 14th as a military and political union among eight socialist states, serving as a counterbalance to the existing North Atlantic Treaty Organization. This event further intensified the division of Europe during the “cold war” years, with Bulgaria positioned behind the “iron curtain.”

The Zhivkov Era

Following Stalin’s death in 1953, Bulgaria’s communist leadership, including Todor Zhivkov, had to moderate the regime. Todor Zhivkov, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party, quickly adapted to the changing political landscape, aligning with the new Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev. Khrushchev’s criticism of Stalin’s “personality cult” at the Twentieth Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in February 1956 had a profound impact City Tours Istanbul.

Rise of Todor Zhivkov

Todor Zhivkov attracted Khrushchev’s attention, and he began consolidating party and state power. The “Zhivkov era” spanned seven five-year plans for national economic development, marking a significant period in recent Bulgarian history. Until November 10, 1989, Zhivkov remained unchallenged at the helm of the Bulgarian Communist Party, serving as its First or General Secretary of the Central Committee. His leadership of over three decades solidified absolute and undivided control over the party and the state.

The periods of Chervenkov and Zhivkov marked Bulgaria’s journey under communism, witnessing economic plans, political shifts, and a prolonged era of undisputed leadership by Todor Zhivkov.

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.

Mill-wheels are silent

The mill-wheels are silent now. This little valley, with its rich grassy slopes, ought to have been covered with herds of sheep and cattle. Not one was to be seen. The pretty little place was as lonely as a graveyard, or as though no living thing had trod its rich greensward for years. We ascended the slope to the right, and when we reached the top of the ridge which separated it from the next valley, we had a beautiful panorama spread out before us.

The mountains here seemed to extend around in a circle, enclosing a tract of country some eight or ten miles in diameter, considerably lower down, which was cut up by a great number of deep hollows and ravines that traversed it in every direction, and seemed to cross and cut off each other without the slightest appearance of anything like reference to a watershed. It looked more like an enlarged photograph of the mountains of the moon than anything else I could think of Guided Istanbul Tours.

Down in the bottom of one of these hollows we could make out a village, which our guide informed us it would still take us an hour and a half to reach, although it really seemed to be very near.

The hillsides

This was the village of Batak, which we were in search of. The hillsides were covered with little fields of wheat and rye, that were golden with ripeness. But although the harvest was ripe, and over ripe, although in many places the well-filled ears had broken down the fast-decaying straw that could no longer hold them aloft, and were now lying flat, there was no sign of reapers trying to save them. The fields were as deserted as the little valley, and the harvest was rotting in the soil. In an hour we had neared the village.

As we approached our attention was directed to some dogs on a slope overlooking the town. We turned aside from the road, and, passing over the debris of two or three walls, and through several gardens, urged our horses up the ascent towards the dogs.

Coldly and concisely noted

They carried little babes about the streets on the points of their bayonets, with the poor little heads and arms drooping around the barrels of their guns, and the blood streaming down over their hands. They cut off the heads of children, and compelled other children to carry the still bleeding heads about in their arms.

I would have the reader remember that I am relating facts that have been coldly and concisely noted down in my presence by Mr. Schuyler ; facts that will appear in his report; facts that were told him by people who wept and moaned and wrung their hands, and fairly tore their hair at the bare remembrance of the scenes they were relating.

Hundreds of women came to us recounting what they had seen and what they had suffered. Not a woman in the place seemed to have escaped outrage. They all confessed it openly. In other places where these things occurred, the women have shown a hesitation to speak. In some cases they denied they had been outraged, and we afterwards learned they confessed to others that they had been Turkey Sightseeing.

At Avrat-Alan a deputation of ladies called upon Mr. Schuyler to make their complaints, and he was somewhat astonished to find they had very little to say. Upon going away, however, they left him a letter, signed by them all, saying that scarcely a woman in the place had escaped outrage. They could not bring themselves to tell him viva voce; but thinking that as he was investigating here in an official capacity he ought to know, they had decided to write to him. Here, however, they did not hesitate to speak out.

Outrages were committed so publicly, so generally, that they feel it would be useless to try to hide their shame, and they avow it openly. These acts were committed not only in the houses, but in the streets, in the yards, in the courts, for the Turks have not even the decency which may accompany vice. They have not even the modesty of vileness; they have not even the shame of nature.

Byzantine army near Klokotnitsa

In March 1230 the Bulgarians gained a brilliant victory over the Byzantine army near Klokotnitsa after which got hold of Macedonia, Albania, the Rhodopes and the Aegean. Once again Bulgaria stretched its borders to the shores of three seas…

Dynasty of the Assenids

The indisputable Bulgarian hegemony of South-Eastern Europe made the Pope in Rome get concerned with the future of the Latin Empire. His emissaries instigated the Hungarians to attack Bulgaria from the north but soon this new threat was eliminated by the Bulgarian sword. The consid-erable territorial expansion of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom was followed by peaceful years that led to economic growth. For the first time the Bulgarian king Ivan II Assen initiated the minting of coins…

The Bogomils and other religious movements in Medieval Bulgaria Undoubtedly, the dynasty of the Assenids (1186-1280) prompted the power and the prestige of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom in the European Medieval world. But, of course, its history also knew periods of social and political crises. The incessant growth of private property and the deeper stratifi-cation of the population in the rural commune contributed to the sharpening of the relations between the ranks of the people and the upper strata of the Bulgarian society Tours Bulgaria. In such periods emerged and developed certain social and religious movements. The Bogomil movement distinguished not only by the dualistic religious beliefs – a conception of the two principles: good and evil – but also by political nationalism and resentment of Byzantine culture. Observing the mismatch between words and deeds of the clergy, people started gradually losing faith in the Christian religion. The Bogomils renounced the official church, its symbols and rites, as well as the need for its ministers. They preached rejection of luxury, riches and bodily pleasures; repudiated marriage; renounced violence, war and cruelty.

Bogomil movement

Between the 9th and the 12th century the Bogomil movement penetrated into Byzantium, Serbia, Wallachia, Kievan Russia, and in the centuries that followed it spread to Italy and France. In the Western world the followers of the Bogomil teaching were called Cathars and Albigenses. Later, in the 14th cen-tury also appeared the teaching of the Adamites who claimed that social inequality was not of a divine origin, so they called on people not to wear clothes: like Adam, the first man in Eden. Again in the 14th century under the influence of Byzantium among the Bulgarian monks penetrated Hesychasm [from the Greek hesychazo, e. g. “being silent”] – an ascetic and meditative teaching. Also from Byzantium came the philosophical and religious doctrine of Varlaam and Akindin called Varlaamism which contained many rational elements combined with criticism of the sumptuous and costly church rituals. And, on the eve of Bulgaria’s fall under Turkish subjugation, the heresy of the Jews was quite widespread as well.

Our Lady of the Fishes

The buildings seen just outside Yedi Kuleh gate are the hospitals, lunatic asylum, and orphan schools, belonging to the Greek and Armenian communities of Constantinople; and the Greek Shrine of Our Lady of the Fishes.

The first outer tower passed on the way from Yedi Kuleh to Silivri Kapusu (Silivri Gate) bears an ancient inscription. The closed gate which comes next is probably the old Bhegion Gate; and the next but two, farther on, which was partly destroyed by the earthquake of 1894, and of which only the two sides bearing an inscription and a cross are now left standing, was built by John Pakeologus in 1433. On the ninth inner tower are carved the names of the Emperors Leo and Constantine. The. tenth and eleventh outer towers are assigned to John Palaeologus, who reigned from 1433 to 1444. The inscription seen on the city side of the tower on the right when entering Silivri Gate sets forth that the gate was called the Spring Gatey from the processions of pilgrims which usually passed through it on their way to the monastery of Our Lady of the Fishes.

Ali Pasha Tepelen

Ibrahim Pasha’s Mosque, just within the gate, is supposed to have once been St. Anne’s Church. In the cemetery attached to the mosque may be seen some three or four tombstones on the graves of women, unique from being artistically carved on both sides. Silivri Gate is the one by which Alexius Strategopoulo, the general of Michael Palaeologus, entered by stratagem on the night of the 6th of August 1261, with 800 men, and took the city from the Latins. The three graves seen at the end of the cemetery opposite the gate contain the decapitated heads of the celebrated Ali Pasha Tepelen mentioned in Byron’s poems, and of his two sons, Yely and Muktar.

The third outer tower beyond Silivri Kapu was, according to the inscription on it, built by John Palseologus in 1439.

Ymi Kapu (New Gate), which comes next, is the third public gate from the Marmora, and is also called Mevlehaneh Kapusu, from the convent of Mevlevi or Dancing Dervishes in the street opposite it. These dervishes perform on Thursdays just after mid-day. Yen! Kapu is the Melandesias Gate of the Byzantines, which led to the village of Melantiade, now Buyuk Checkmedjeh. Of the two Greek inscriptions, that seen on one side of the gate sets forth that Cyrus, prefect of the city, erected wall within wall for the beloved sovereign (Theodosius II.) in sixty days. The inscription on the other side of the gate is to the effect that the breastwork was restored in the reign of Justin and Sophia (566-578) by Narses, the most glorious

Spatharius, architect to that emperor. The Latin inscription also seen on the gate is merely a Latin rendering of the first of the two Greek inscriptions, and runs thus : Theodosii jussis gemino nec mense peracto Constantinus ovans hcec mania firma locavit. Tam cito tarn stabilem Pallas vix conderet arcem ( By order of Theodosius, Constantine triumphantly erected this stronghold in less than two months. Pallas herself could scarcely build so strong a fortress in so short a time’).

Bishops and the Patriarch’s throne

Gold alone was not thought good enough for the altar; this was therefore made of a combination of gems set in silver and gold. The doors were of ivory, amber, and cedar, the outer one being silver- plated. The seven seats for the bishops and the Patriarch’s throne, forming a semicircle at the back of the altar, were all silver-plated. The building contains nearly every kind of known marble, comprising the green from Laconia, the white, black- veined Bosporus marble, the white Phrygian with its pink streaks, with others from Asia Minor and Egypt. The columns number 107 in all, of which 67 are in the galleries.

More or less extensive repairs have been effected by various emperors and sultans ; the last were in 1848, in the reign of Sultan Abd-ul-Medjid, and were entrusted to the Italian architects, Possati Brothers.

The Mosque of St. Sophia is 235 feet N. and S. by 250 feet E. and W. At its western end is an open court, the ancient Atrium (A), containing a round fountain, used for the Muhammadan ablutions. In the very centre of this court, very probably on the site of the Turkish fountain, stood the Phiale, a large marble basin with two jets of water constantly running, where worshippers performed their ablutions before entering the church, and which bore the inscription, NDBON ANOMH- MATA MH MONAN O’T’IN, signifying ‘ Cleanse thine iniquities, not thy face only curious from the fact of its reading the same whether perused the right way or backwards. The Outer Narthex (B) with its five doors was on the eastern side of the Atrium; and the belfry (C) was over the main entrance private istanbul tour. The Outer Narthex is devoid of any ornamentation; its five doors were called ‘ the Doors of the Armenians from the latter having taken part in the fifth General Council while the doors were being built. These gave access to the Inner Narthex.

MIXAHA NIKHTHN

Both the nartheces were reserved for catechumens and penitents. This latter hall is 205 feet long by 26 feet wide, and its walls and ceiling are covered with mosaic work. At its northern and at its southern sides are low doorways, giving access to the women’s galleries. The South porch, which is a double one, was reserved for the Emperor and his suite; it was erected by the Emperor Theo- philus, and is sheathed with bronze plating bearing several crosses and Byzantine monograms. At the top of the right-hand door is a fragment of an inscription, MIXAHA NIKHTHN (‘Michael of the Conquerors ’). All the doors bear crosses which the Turks have altered to resemble trident prongs.

The nave is entered through nine gates, the central one of which was formerly styled “ Pyle Vasilike ” or Royal Gate, and is that through which the Emperor entered, and where he was met by the Patriarch. On the bronze cornice over the gate is carved a lectern and a copy of the Gospels. The book is represented as open at the passage from St. John : ‘ I am the door : by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture ”. The four mosaic figures above this cornice are now but dimly visible through the wash the Turks have put over them. The figure between the medallions of the Virgin and St. John the Baptist is Christ seated on a throne. His right hand holds a volume open at the words ‘ Peace be unto you; I am the light of the world ’; and with his left he is blessing a kneeling emperor.