Travels

[metrotravels]

Foreign Schools in Bulgaria

Foreign subjects are allowed to open schools in Bulgaria only for children of foreign residents, provided they notify the Ministry of Public Instruction through the departmental educational inspectorate. They must supply full information about the organization of their school, including its curriculum, teachers, and facilities.

The official Bulgarian curriculum is not mandatory for foreign schools, except when they choose to admit Bulgarian children. In that case, they must follow the official curriculum and use Bulgarian as the teaching language (Article 216). Foreigners may also establish schools for languages, vocational training, or fine arts, even when the students are Bulgarians (Article 217).

This regulation allows foreign communities to maintain their own educational traditions while ensuring that Bulgarian children receive instruction consistent with national laws.

Infant Schools in 1903-1904

During the school year 1903-1904, there were 40 infant schools in the Principality, attended by 2,707 children: 1,289 boys and 1,418 girls. These schools were managed by 46 schoolmistresses and 2 schoolmasters, not counting the staff of the Jewish infant school in Schoumen Customized Tours Istanbul.

The schools were distributed according to nationality as follows:

Nationality Number of Schools Schoolmasters Schoolmistresses Boys Girls Total Bulgarian 25 0 25 689 645 1,334 Greek 5 0 12 362 604 966 Jewish 5 2 4 159 200 359 French 2 0 2 12 16 28 German 1 0 2 20 13 33 American 3 0 4 47 40 87 Total 40 2 46 1,289 1,418 2,707

The average age of the children attending these infant schools ranged from four to six years, in accordance with Article 15 of the Law on Public Instruction.

Curriculum and Activities

The main goal of infant schools was to prepare children for primary education. Pupils were engaged in play, singing, drawing, embroidery, manual work, and simple arithmetic. These activities aimed to develop physical, intellectual, and moral skills, ensuring a smooth transition to formal schooling.

Infant schools were a vital part of the Bulgarian education system, promoting early learning and supporting families in raising well-educated and socially responsible children.

[metrotravels]

National Assembly of Bulgaria

The Bulgarian people participate in the government through the National Assembly, which is composed of deputies elected by the citizens. The National Assembly plays a key role in representing the people and making laws.

There are two types of National Assemblies: the Ordinary National Assembly and the Grand National Assembly.

Ordinary National Assembly

The Ordinary National Assembly meets every year from October 15th to December 15th. In cases of urgent matters or when important questions require quick decisions, the Assembly may be called into an extraordinary session. During these sessions, deputies discuss laws, budgets, and other national issues Istanbul Day Tours.

Election of Deputies

Deputies for the National Assembly are elected according to a special law. The election process is carefully organized to ensure fairness and transparency.

Electoral lists are prepared and published by special commissions of the municipal councils.

Citizens have the right to correct any mistakes or omissions in these lists.

Municipal councils investigate all claims, and their decisions can be appealed to the Justice of Peace or the District Court.

Further appeals can be made to the High Court of Cassation, which has the authority to annul lower court decisions if necessary.

All electoral disputes are exempt from stamp duties, making the process easier and more accessible.

Electoral Districts and Election Dates

For the purpose of elections, the country is divided into special districts. The number and boundaries of these districts are defined by a special law.

The date of the elections is set by a royal decree, which must be published at least one month before the polling day. This ensures that all citizens are informed in advance and have the opportunity to participate.

Role and Importance

Through the National Assembly, the people of Bulgaria exercise their right to influence government decisions. The Assembly represents the voice of the nation, debates laws, and supervises the actions of the executive branch. Both ordinary and extraordinary sessions ensure that the government remains responsive and accountable to its citizens.

[metrotravels]

Preservation of Bulgarian Identity under Ottoman Rule

Limited Turkish Interference

The Turks took pride in keeping themselves separate from the Bulgarians, and this indirectly helped the Bulgarian people preserve their national identity. The Ottomans were mostly interested in political control and did not interfere deeply in the spiritual life of the Bulgarians. They focused on maintaining their supremacy and crushing any attempts at independence but left the internal cultural and religious life largely untouched.

Religious Communities and Education

Bulgarians organized themselves into religious communities centered around the church. These communities had some autonomy, managing their churches and also running schools. Through these institutions, the people could maintain their culture and language. Religious communities became the guardians of national consciousness, allowing Bulgarians to pass on traditions, literacy, and spiritual values from one generation to the next City Tours Istanbul.

National Literature and Folk Songs

Bulgarian literature and folk songs played an essential role in preserving the national spirit. These songs, full of poetic melancholy, combined memories of the ancient Bulgarian kingdom with the hardships of life under Ottoman rule. The music and poetry of this period often reflect an Oriental influence, a trace of the cultural environment imposed by the Turks. Still, they mainly focused on expressing Bulgarian identity and longing for freedom.

Awakening of National Feeling

Despite the watchfulness of the Turkish authorities, these religious and cultural centers helped keep national feelings alive. By the early 19th century, when Russia declared war on Turkey in 1827, the Bulgarians began to awaken politically and culturally. Although initial hopes for liberation were disappointed, this period marked the beginning of national revival. The impulse for independence also influenced other Balkan nations such as the Romanians, Serbians, and Greeks, who started to awaken from long periods of political and social lethargy.

[metrotravels]

The Seaward Walls and the Power of Nature

The Threat of Icebergs

After the harsh winter of 764, the frozen waters of the Black Sea began to thaw. As the ice broke apart, massive chunks of frozen water drifted southward through the Bosporus. The current carried them violently toward Constantinople. One huge iceberg struck the pier near the Acropolis with tremendous force. Soon after, an even larger iceberg smashed against the neighboring section of the wall, shaking the entire district. The enormous block broke into three parts, but each was still so large that they towered above the city walls. The fragments pressed against the fortifications from the Mangana district to the Port of Bosporus, frightening the citizens and apparently damaging the defenses of the promontory.

This extraordinary natural disaster demonstrated that not only human enemies but also nature itself posed constant dangers to the city. The people of Constantinople realized that the seaward walls required not only vigilance against armies but also resilience against the unpredictable forces of the sea and climate Private Bulgaria Tours Yachting.

Reconstruction under Michael II and Theophilus

The Siege of Thomas the Slav

Major reconstruction of the damaged walls began during the reign of Michael II (820–829). His rule was troubled by rebellion, particularly the uprising led by Thomas the Slav, who besieged Constantinople. During this conflict, Thomas even forced his way to the great chain across the Golden Horn, showing for the first time that even the northern sea defenses could be threatened if the enemy was bold enough. This alarming event convinced the emperor that the city’s maritime walls required immediate attention.

Saracen Victories and Naval Threats

At the same time, the Byzantine Empire faced a growing naval danger from the Saracens. Their fleets displayed renewed strength, capturing Sicily and Crete, and in 829 they defeated the Imperial navy in the Aegean Sea. These humiliating setbacks revealed the Empire’s weakness on the water and made it clear that the capital itself might come under renewed naval attack.

The Grand Reconstruction of Theophilus

Stronger and Higher Walls

Michael II’s successor, Theophilus (829–842), undertook the most ambitious reconstruction of the seaward walls. Realizing the urgency of the situation, he ordered that the old, weakened ramparts be replaced with stronger and taller fortifications. The project was carried out on a massive scale, more like a complete rebuilding than a simple repair. Chroniclers noted that Theophilus spent the empire’s wealth lavishly, remarking that “the gold coins of the realm were spent as freely as worthless pebbles.”

Inscriptions and Imperial Pride

Theophilus took great pride in his achievement. To mark his accomplishment, he inscribed his name on an extraordinary number of towers and walls, more than any other Byzantine emperor. These inscriptions celebrated his role as the protector of Constantinople and as the ruler who had secured its defenses for generations.

Legacy of Theophilus’s Work

The fortifications built by Theophilus proved remarkably durable. With only minor changes, they remained standing until the final days of the Byzantine Empire. Even in their ruined state today, the seaward walls still bear the mark of Theophilus’s vision and determination. His reconstruction ensured that the city remained secure against both natural forces and enemy fleets for centuries, leaving a lasting legacy on the skyline of Constantinople.

[metrotravels]

Metkovic Bosnia's Unhealthy Port

Metkovic, the port of Bosnia on the Mediterranean, is located on a piece of land created by the silt of the Narenta River, about 12 miles from where the river meets the sea. It has a bad reputation for being one of the most unhealthy ports on the Adriatic. The land around the city is swampy, and it is believed that poisonous gases rise from the ground at night, especially when the sun goes down.

Metkovic is a modern commercial city with a population of around 4,000 people, mostly Italians, Greeks, and Jews, and it resembles an Italian town in appearance. The main industries in Metkovic are fishing and shipping Sightseeing Sofia.

As the trade in Bosnia grows, Metkovic is expected to become a more important port. However, malaria and mosquitoes make it a place people try to avoid. The trains from Sarajevo are scheduled to connect quickly with the steamers, allowing passengers to pass through Metkovic as quickly as possible, almost as if it were a disease-ridden area. Despite this, Metkovic is not as bad as Colon (a port in Panama), and in fact, the buildings in Metkovic are made of stone or brick, with thick walls, solid floors, and tiled roofs, while Colon is mainly made up of bamboo huts and wooden houses.

Metkovic is about 14 miles away from saltwater. To improve the port, a canal is being dug through the delta area, which is flat and wide, allowing large steamers to dock directly, instead of using smaller boats for cargo. The land around the port is very fertile because it is made up of soil washed down from the mountains. However, due to the unhealthy atmosphere, few people try to farm here. Although there have been efforts to drain the marshland, the costs are too high. I have seen similar tropical plants in places like Yucatan, Cuba, and the Amazon, but nothing compares to the plants found here.

Salona and Spalato Historic Roman Sites

The most interesting places along the eastern coast of the Adriatic are Spalato and Salona, which are home to the best-preserved and most extensive Roman ruins in the region. Many centuries before the birth of Christ, Salona was a large and wealthy city, known for its advanced culture, similar to that of Rome. The people of Salona were rich and had a strong artistic sense. They enjoyed luxury and competition in their lifestyles, which can be seen in the ruins of their palaces, baths, and amusement areas.

The area around Salona, stretching for 50 miles, is full of fascinating sites for archaeologists and historians. One of the most famous attractions is the palace of Diocletian, located in Salona, which is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture from its period. This site is of great interest to artists and architects because of its historical significance and impressive design.

[metrotravels]

The Patron Saint of Bulgaria

St. John of Ryle

The patron saint of Bulgaria is St. John of Ryle. Although Christianity was first brought to the country by St. Methodius, it is St. John of Ryle who is honored as the patron saint. John of Ryle was originally a shepherd who later became a monk and lived a life of asceticism (a life of simplicity and self-discipline). For twenty years, he lived in the hollow of an oak tree in the mountains that separate Bulgaria and Macedonia. These mountains are now named after him.

The Ryle Monastery

After spending years living in the oak tree, John of Ryle moved to a rocky area that was very hard to reach. It was here that a monastery was built in his honor, now known as the Ryle Monastery. The monastery is a beautiful, medieval building and is one of the most picturesque places in Bulgaria. It is located in a beautiful mountain area, two days’ journey south of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. The monastery is often visited by tourists, who are warmly welcomed by the monks who live there Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

Recent Controversies Surrounding the Monastery

The monastery has gained recent attention due to an incident involving Miss Stone, a kidnapped American missionary. It was reported that Miss Stone had been hidden within the walls of the monastery, and as a result, soldiers under orders from the Bulgarian government searched the building thoroughly. This search was considered by many to be an invasion of the holy site. The monks were very upset by the intrusion, and the situation caused anger among the Greek Church members in Bulgaria. They blamed American missionaries for the incident and even threatened revenge.

Monks’ Hostility Towards Missionary Activity

The monks at St. Ryle Monastery have shown more hostility to missionary work than other clergy members in Bulgaria. The monks, unlike the more educated parish priests, tend to be less open-minded. Because they live a more isolated life and do not mix much with the outside world, they are often less tolerant of missionary activities.

Suspicions Regarding the Monks’ Involvement in the Kidnapping

It is not completely clear whether the monks of St. Ryle Monastery were involved in Miss Stone’s abduction, but there is no proof that they were. The suspicion that the monks might have had some role in the kidnapping is based on their past relationships with bandits. In earlier times, the remote location of the monastery made it an ideal meeting point for bandits who lived in the surrounding areas. These bandits, who were often peaceful farmers or shepherds, would sometimes resort to robbery when the opportunity arose. They are said to have given generously to the monks, offering game and other food supplies in exchange for the monks’ help.

The monks are believed to have hidden the bandits and their weapons when the police were pursuing them. They also allowed the bandits to meet in the monastery both before and after their raids.

[metrotravels]

The Dimensions and Boundaries of Constantine’s City

The length of the original city of Constantine was measured from the Porta Aurea in the west to the sea in the east. However, there is a disagreement about which gate was referred to as the Porta Aurea. Despite this, we can be sure that the eastern end of the city’s measurement was at the head of the promontory. This location marked the full length of the city.

Measuring the Length of the City

If we start at the head of the promontory and measure 14,075 Roman feet westwards, we will find that this brings us to the Cisterns of Mokius and Aspar. This matches the measurements given by Zosimus. Therefore, this confirms that the head of the promontory is the correct starting point for the city’s length.

Measuring the Width of the City

Next, we look at the width of the city. A line of 6,150 Roman feet from sea to sea will stretch across a specific part of the promontory. This area lies between the Daoud Pasha Kapoussi district near the Sea of Marmora in the south, and the Stamboul side of the inner bridge in the north. Other parts of the promontory are either narrower or broader. Thus, the southern and northern ends of Constantine’s city wall marked the limits of the city as described Sofia Guided Tours.

The Landmarks Along Constantine’s Wall

Byzantine writers give us details about the locations and structures along Constantine’s wall:

On the Sea of Marmora side, the wall extended as far west as the Gate of St. Emilianus (now Daoud Pasha Kapoussi) and the church of St. Mary Rhabdou. This gate is near Vlanga Bostan.

When the wall crossed from the Sea of Marmora to the Golden Horn, it passed over the Seventh, Fourth, and Fifth Hills. Along this path, the fortifications passed by several important landmarks:

The Exokionion (an ancient gate)

The Monastery of St. Dius

The Convent of Icasia

The Cistern of Bonus

The Church of SS. Manuel, Sabel, and Ishmael

The Zeugma (Ferry) of St. Antony in the district of Harmatius, near the harbour

Other important sites along the wall included the Trojan Porticoes and the Cistern of Aspar.

The Boundaries of the City

From the measurements and landmarks described by ancient writers, we can conclude that the city of Constantine had clearly defined boundaries, marked by gates, churches, monasteries, and other significant structures. These structures not only served as defensive elements but also reflected the growth and development of the city during Constantine’s reign.

[metrotravels]

Sveta Sofia Hotel

Location: A-2, ul. Plrotska 18 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Sveta Sofia Hotel is located in a beautiful old building from the 19th century. The building has recently been renovated and is found on a quiet pedestrian street in the city center. This makes it one of the most pleasant and peaceful places to stay downtown.

The rooms are decorated with bright blue and yellow colors, giving a fresh and cheerful feeling. Bathrooms are light and comfortable. Most standard double rooms have showers, while the luxury rooms include full bathtubs for more comfort.

This hotel has 80 rooms in total. Prices for single rooms range from €75 to €125, double rooms cost between €85 and €135, and apartments range from €144 to €250. It is a great choice for travelers who want to stay close to the city’s main attractions but prefer a calm environment Bulgaria Trips.

Vega Hotel

Location: B-8, bul. G. M. Dimitrov 75 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Vega Hotel is a modern 4-star hotel that opened recently in 2005. It is located about 4 kilometers south of the city center. Although it is outside the center, its location at the meeting point of wide boulevards means guests can travel easily by car or taxi.

The rooms have warm coffee-colored decor with neat, modern bathrooms featuring bathtubs. Each room includes a flat-screen TV and a desk for work. The superior rooms and suites come with small terraces and tea and coffee making facilities.

The hotel’s lobby connects to a stylish café and restaurant via a beautiful spiral staircase, making the public areas feel welcoming and social. Guests can also enjoy a state-of-the-art solarium, fitness center, and massage services.

Alexander Palace Hotel

Location: H-7, ul. Nartsis 1, Dragalevtsi Contact: Tel: [phone]

Alexander Palace is a small modern hotel located in Dragalevtsi, a quiet mountain suburb about 20 minutes by car from Sofia’s city center. This hotel is perfect for those who want peace and nature while still being close to the city.

Rooms here are spacious and comfortable. The staff are friendly and helpful, creating a relaxed atmosphere. It is a great option for visitors looking for a calm, out-of-town stay.

Ambassador Hotel

Location: H-8, bul. Simeonovsko Shose 110 A Contact: Tel: [phone]

Ambassador Hotel is a modern four-floor building with heavy, luxurious furniture and elegant decoration. Each floor is decorated in a different color, giving each level a unique style.

Some rooms have views that are affected by nearby building projects, but the service is excellent and the rooms are spacious and very comfortable. The attic rooms on the top floor feel especially cozy.

The hotel also offers a spa and recreational center for guests who want to relax and enjoy extra services.

[metrotravels]

Great Britain's Lack of Protest Against the Treaty of Bucharest

The Reason Behind Great Britain’s Silence

It is not easy to understand why Great Britain did not protest against the clear injustice of the Treaty of Bucharest. However, there are some factors that explain this decision:

Western Europe’s Judgment: At that time, Western Europe’s judgment was clouded because of the false information spread by Greece and Serbia. These countries launched a campaign of lies during the six weeks when Bulgaria was isolated. Their goal was to turn European opinion against Bulgaria and hide their own wrongdoings.

Great Britain’s Policy: The policy adopted by Great Britain seemed to follow the approach of Mr. Balfour, who had unfortunately decided to leave the entire Balkan issue to the two most interested countries, Greece and Serbia. This decision also appears to have been a last attempt to maintain the so-called Concert of Europe—an idea that was meant to bring European countries together. However, this Concert of Europe never really existed in practice. It mainly allowed for selfish diplomacy to flourish, driven by ambitions for power and control Turkey Sightseeing.

The Price of Europe’s Actions

God’s Justice: The Powers of Europe are now facing the consequences of their past mistakes. They are paying a heavy price for their sins of omission and commission—for ignoring the plight of the Christian nations in the Balkans and for their involvement in Militarism.

Human Suffering: This has led to a terrible war, filled with human suffering, misery, and pain. The lands that were treated as empire and the people as property are now paying the price for those actions.

Great Britain’s failure to speak out against the Treaty of Bucharest is partly due to the misinformation spread about Bulgaria and a desire to maintain an ineffective European system. However, Europe is now facing the painful consequences of its actions, and the Balkans continue to suffer from the decisions made by powerful countries.

[metrotravels]

Impact of the 1956 Hungarian Uprising on Bulgaria

The 1956 Hungarian Uprising had a significant impact on Bulgarian society, as it sparked fear within the communist government. The uprising, where Hungarian citizens rebelled against Soviet control, sent a powerful message of resistance. In response, the Bulgarian political secret police (State Security) took immediate action to prevent any similar uprising in Bulgaria.

Crackdown on Dissidents

Following the events in Hungary, the Bulgarian government began a series of preventive arrests. These arrests targeted those considered a threat to the regime, including the intelligentsia (educated elites), students, and other individuals. The authorities were particularly worried about any signs of rebellion or discontent within the population Personal Istanbul Tours.

State Security reports indicate that anti-Soviet leaflets supporting the Hungarian uprising began to appear in schools across Bulgaria. These leaflets were found in high schools and colleges in both rural areas and cities. Some of the locations where these leaflets were discovered include:

Villages like Bregovo, Belimel, Ruzhintsi, and Vladimirovo.

Cities like Teteven, Nikopol, Straldzha, Varna, Vidin, and Yambol.

Prestigious schools such as Sofia’s 32nd High School, Pleven’s High School of Economics, and Pernik’s Technical Mining School.

These leaflets expressed support for the Hungarian uprising and showed growing discontent with Soviet influence in Bulgaria. They also included demands for fewer compulsory Russian language lessons in schools and the cancellation of celebrations for the Soviet October Revolution Day, which many Bulgarians felt glorified Soviet power over their own culture.

Student Protests and Expulsions

In addition to the leaflets, many students took part in protests, demanding changes in their education system and expressing their dissatisfaction with Soviet influence. Students from various universities and colleges, including the Higher Institute for Theatrical Art in Sofia, the Faculty of Philosophy at Sofia University, the Higher Engineering Institute in Plovdiv, and the Higher Institute of Economics in Varna, joined the movement. These protests, inspired by the Hungarian uprising, led to increased fear in the government that a similar revolution could happen in Bulgaria.

Repression and Expulsions

As a result of these protests and activities, the Bulgarian government cracked down on perceived dissidents. On the morning of 5 November 1956, 372 citizens were arrested, most of whom were sent to the Belene labor camp. The list of individuals to be arrested was drawn up by the authorities, and it included people considered to be a threat to the communist regime.

In addition to the arrests, many individuals and entire families who were suspected of not supporting the regime were banished from towns and cities. These people were relocated to more remote areas in the country. For example, 384 families were expelled from Sofia and sent to labor camps or isolated areas. This was part of a larger effort to suppress any opposition to the government and to prevent the spread of anti-Soviet sentiments.

Expulsion of Students

The government also targeted students, expelling over 500 students from various institutions. These students were believed to have been involved in protests or demonstrations that echoed the actions of their Hungarian counterparts. This expulsion of students was meant to send a strong message to anyone who might consider standing up against the regime in the future.

The 1956 Hungarian Uprising served as a wake-up call for the Bulgarian government, leading to a harsh crackdown on anyone who might have been influenced by the events in Hungary. The government used arrests, expulsions, and forced relocations to eliminate potential threats. The uprising highlighted the growing dissatisfaction with Soviet control and showed that many Bulgarians were willing to take risks in the fight for their rights and freedoms, even though these efforts were met with severe repression.

[metrotravels]

Halil Bereket and the Kuşadası Municipality Band

Halil Bereket’s Early Life and Military Service

Halil Bereket served in the Navy during his military service. In 1942, during the funeral of Prime Minister Refik Saydam, he began his journey with music by joining the Navy Marine Corps Band. This marked the beginning of the Kuşadası Municipality Band.

Establishing the Band in Kuşadası

After serving in the military for 3.5 years, Halil Bereket returned to Kuşadası and was appointed to create a band for the town. However, he discovered that all the instruments had been lost in a strong storm. Despite this, Bereket managed to find and repair the instruments Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

Building the Band

Bereket then placed ads offering free music lessons to recruit new band members. He successfully gathered 12 new members, most of whom were local tradesmen and civil servants. With these musicians, he officially founded the Kuşadası Municipality Band, which has been an essential part of the town’s festivals, parades, and official ceremonies for over 63 years. The band survived through determination, sacrifice, and hard work.

The Kirazlı Cherry Festival

Introduction to the Festival

The village of Kirazlı, known for its delicious cherries, has hosted the “Cherry Festival” for the past four years to promote its famous cherries. The festival takes place in the front yard of the elementary school, where various activities celebrate the cherries.

Festival Highlights

During the festival, the best ecological cherry producers are awarded, and the title of “Miss Cherry” is given. Folk dances and concerts are also performed. This year, 55 participants from four categories of cherry farming competed: Black Cherry, Napoleon, Grafting, and Agriculture 900.

Miss Cherry 2025

The winner of the Miss Cherry competition was Gözde Durmaz, followed by Ash Bozkurt and Hatice Özsoy. The winner received various gifts and plaques. The audience also enjoyed a dance performance by the world champion KUFAD, the Kuşadası Folklore Research Association.

Evening Concert

In the evening, Tolga Çandar, a popular folk music singer from the Aegean region, performed a concert, adding to the excitement of the event.

A Call for Improvement

One thing that was missing at the festival was the lack of promotion in foreign languages. KURED hopes that this issue will be addressed in future festivals to reach a wider audience.

[metrotravels]

Limited Communication in Elbasan

There is no regular trade or reliable communication from Elbasan. I wanted to send letters but was told that the post only goes to Monastir once a week, and only if there are enough letters. The route to Durazzo, which would have been much faster for sending a letter to England, was even more uncertain. The transport was unreliable, and no one could say when the letters would be sent, sometimes it would take months.

The Hotel in Elbasan

I was told there was one good hotel in Elbasan, so I decided to stay there. The hotel was a large building with a dark hallway leading into a courtyard where caravans and mule drivers rested. It was located next to a narrow, smelly road. Above the entrance was a covered balcony, and there was an old oil can, sometimes filled with brown water, which was the only place to wash. This meant that when washing, water would spill out onto anyone entering the hotel. There was no proper drain to carry the water away, making the area quite unhygienic Istanbul Day Tour.

The Room at the Inn

I paid about two shillings a night for my own room. The floorboards were warped, which allowed rats to come in and out freely. I could even see the horses, pigs, ducks, and hens from the stables below through the gaps. The smell was similar to that of a barn. The weather was very humid, and it rained a lot during the two days I was in Elbasan, which gave me a constant headache.

The Innkeeper’s Hospitality

The landlord of the inn was a large, deep-voiced Albanian who had met Europeans before. He seemed excited to show off his knowledge of the world. He would often bring his friends to meet me, insisting that I shake hands with all of them. It was clear that he enjoyed displaying his connections and making sure everyone knew he had foreign guests.

[metrotravels]

The Sultan's Challenges

The Sultan, Abdul Hamid, has never really had the chance to judge the political situation fairly. When he talks with foreign Ambassadors, it often feels like a constant struggle between opposing forces. The Sultan is very smart and cautious, but he has not received broad education or intellectual training. Since he was young, he has been surrounded by slaves and eunuchs. The government is filled with hidden groups, and the Sultan prefers to appoint strong ministers. A strong minister may fall from power, not because the Sultan is afraid of him, but because Turkish politics is so complicated that rivals quickly find evidence of any secret plots. In the East, it is believed that every person acts out of self-interest, and you can’t argue against this view because it is deeply rooted in the culture.

Two Sides of Turkey

When talking about Turkey, we often make generalizations that are misleading. There are actually two Turkeys: one is the government, and the other is the people. We don’t know much about Turkey as a country, but we tend to form opinions based on the corruption in the government. While corruption is widespread and severe, it is important to remember that the problem lies in the system of government. Turkish administration today runs on corruption as its main driving force. This corruption isn’t hidden or something people are ashamed of; it’s a normal part of the system. For example, if someone pays a high official £5,000 for a position that only pays £500, both the official and the person receiving the post understand that the money will be regained by taking money from others. This is open corruption, where taxes are never fully used for their intended purposes, and people are crushed under heavy costs Central Synagogue.

The Difficulty of Change

Although this system is wrong, it has been in place for so long that it’s hard for Turks to imagine doing things any other way. I remember talking with a high-ranking Turkish official who had traveled widely and seen how things work in other countries.

[metrotravels]

Extracting Attar from Rose-Water

Second Distillation Process

To get the pure attar from rose-water, a second distillation is needed. From 40 liters of rose-water, about 5 liters of liquid is distilled. During this process, the attar forms as a yellow, oily layer about 2 to 4 millimeters thick on top of the rose-water. This oily layer is carefully skimmed off using a small bowl shaped like an upside-down cone. The bowl has a small hole at the bottom to allow the heavier water to pass through, leaving the attar behind.

Adulteration of Attar

Mixing with Other Oils

One common way to adulterate attar of rose is by mixing it with attar of geranium, which comes from the Indian geranium or Palma rosa. This problem is not limited to Constantinople (Istanbul), where, in fact, no pure attar of rose is exported. In Bulgaria, some growers even mix it themselves. Since 1888, the Bulgarian government has tried to stop this practice by banning the import of geranium attar. However, it is still available illegally. Often, the attar is sent to Constantinople where it is freely mixed Coastal Bulgaria Tours.

Another method of adulteration is adding white roses to the red ones being distilled. White roses are less fragrant but richer in stearoptene (a chemical compound), which can affect the quality of the final product. In some cases, attar of geranium is also mixed with turpentine oil. As a result, it is possible that the attar of rose you buy in a high-end store may contain very little of the genuine perfume.

Life of the Rose Growers

The Realities of Rose Farming

The peasants who grow roses are generally kind and hardworking, but their lives are not as ideal as they may seem. There are no large rose farms; instead, small farmers tend to their own patches of roses. Merchants find it more profitable to buy roses from these small growers who use simple methods to make attar. This system works for merchants because they do not have to bear the risk of crop damage—the peasant farmers do.

The two or three main merchants in Kasanlik hold a monopoly over the rose market. They control the price of attar, and the rose growers have little choice but to sell their product to them. If a farmer refuses, there are few other buyers. While some merchants have made fortunes from attar of rose, the small farmers who grow it do not get rich.

[metrotravels]

The Ransom Negotiations

While the violence in the village was ongoing, Hafiz Pacha was secretly negotiating with the men he had captured in the camp about the terms for the ransom of the village. After much effort, they finally agreed on a price, and the money was raised. The men were then set free and allowed to return to their damaged homes. Mr. Schuyler has gathered most of the details about this transaction, although it was not easy to do. The villagers remain fearful of Hafiz’s revenge. If he discovers who revealed information about him, he might retaliate against them.

This ransom money was not collected for the government, but for Hafiz Pacha’s own benefit. Given that the government is in urgent need of funds, they might eventually request that he deposit this money into the treasury.

Casualties and Their Impact

The number of people killed in the village is estimated to be between 200 and 300. Among the casualties, there were relatively few women and children. Most of the deaths occurred among those who tried to escape the village but were caught and killed by the Bashi-Bazouks in the surrounding countryside. This tragic loss highlights the severe impact of the conflict on the community Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Arrival in Bucharest

Bucharest, August 22

I have just arrived in Bucharest after spending a few weeks traveling through Bulgaria. During part of the trip, I was accompanied by Mr. Schuyler, but I left him to continue his investigations in the Balkans. Before I share further details about what we witnessed, I would like to discuss a few points with Mr. Disraeli regarding the issue of “exaggerations.” I also want to comment on the actions of Sir Henry Elliot and provide a brief overview of the current situation in the country.

Observations on the Situation

It is important to consider how these events have shaped the lives of the local people. The fear and uncertainty caused by Hafiz Pacha’s actions have left a deep mark on the community. Many residents are still recovering from the trauma of losing their loved ones and homes. The fear of further violence remains, making it difficult for the villagers to rebuild their lives. The situation in the region is complex, with political and social factors contributing to the ongoing strife.

As we reflect on these events, it becomes clear that the consequences extend far beyond immediate violence. The loss of life, the destruction of homes, and the fear instilled in the community will have lasting effects on future generations. Understanding this context is crucial for any efforts toward peace and recovery in the region.

This rewrite clarifies the text and organizes the information with appropriate subtitles, making it easier to read. Let me know if you’d like any changes or further details!

[metrotravels]

The Ransom Negotiations

While the violence in the village was ongoing, Hafiz Pacha was secretly negotiating with the men he had captured in the camp about the terms for the ransom of the village. After much effort, they finally agreed on a price, and the money was raised. The men were then set free and allowed to return to their damaged homes. Mr. Schuyler has gathered most of the details about this transaction, although it was not easy to do. The villagers remain fearful of Hafiz’s revenge. If he discovers who revealed information about him, he might retaliate against them.

This ransom money was not collected for the government, but for Hafiz Pacha’s own benefit. Given that the government is in urgent need of funds, they might eventually request that he deposit this money into the treasury.

Casualties and Their Impact

The number of people killed in the village is estimated to be between 200 and 300. Among the casualties, there were relatively few women and children. Most of the deaths occurred among those who tried to escape the village but were caught and killed by the Bashi-Bazouks in the surrounding countryside. This tragic loss highlights the severe impact of the conflict on the community Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Arrival in Bucharest

Bucharest, August 22

I have just arrived in Bucharest after spending a few weeks traveling through Bulgaria. During part of the trip, I was accompanied by Mr. Schuyler, but I left him to continue his investigations in the Balkans. Before I share further details about what we witnessed, I would like to discuss a few points with Mr. Disraeli regarding the issue of “exaggerations.” I also want to comment on the actions of Sir Henry Elliot and provide a brief overview of the current situation in the country.

Observations on the Situation

It is important to consider how these events have shaped the lives of the local people. The fear and uncertainty caused by Hafiz Pacha’s actions have left a deep mark on the community. Many residents are still recovering from the trauma of losing their loved ones and homes. The fear of further violence remains, making it difficult for the villagers to rebuild their lives. The situation in the region is complex, with political and social factors contributing to the ongoing strife.

As we reflect on these events, it becomes clear that the consequences extend far beyond immediate violence. The loss of life, the destruction of homes, and the fear instilled in the community will have lasting effects on future generations. Understanding this context is crucial for any efforts toward peace and recovery in the region.

This rewrite clarifies the text and organizes the information with appropriate subtitles, making it easier to read. Let me know if you’d like any changes or further details!

[metrotravels]

Deportation of Tavrian Bulgarians

In 1943 and 1944, a few thousand Bulgarians from the Tavria region, then part of the Soviet Union (now Ukraine), managed to return to Bulgaria. These people, known as Tavrian Bulgarians, had endured severe hardships and significant losses. They had been repressed and persecuted in Tavria due to Bulgaria’s alliance with Nazi Germany during World War II. However, their troubles did not end upon returning to their homeland.

Return and Repression

Immediately after the Soviet Army invaded Bulgaria in 1944, Stalin ordered the deportation of all Tavrian Bulgarians back to the Soviet Union. Despite being ethnic Bulgarians who sought refuge in their ancestral homeland, they were treated as enemies of the Soviet system. The deportation was part of a broader Soviet strategy to eliminate any perceived threats, including ethnic groups with connections to countries aligned with Germany during the war Istanbul Tour Guide.

Life in Bulgaria Before the Deportation

Before their forced return to the Soviet Union, the Tavrian Bulgarians tried to rebuild their lives in Bulgaria. They were a tight-knit community, holding on to their cultural heritage and traditions despite the challenges they faced. However, the post-war political climate in Bulgaria, dominated by Soviet influence, made their stay short-lived. The presence of the Soviet Army in Bulgaria meant that Stalin’s orders were swiftly executed, leaving the Tavrian Bulgarians with little time to adjust to their new surroundings before being uprooted once again.

The Forced Deportation

The deportation was carried out with military precision. Soviet authorities, with the cooperation of Bulgarian state security forces, rounded up the Tavrian Bulgarians and sent them back to the Soviet Union. These deportees faced a grim future, as they were often treated harshly upon their return. Branded as traitors and enemies of the state, many were sent to labor camps or subjected to other forms of repression. The irony of their situation was stark: having fled Soviet repression in Tavria, they found themselves back under the same oppressive regime that had driven them away in the first place.

The Dark Legacy

The story of the Tavrian Bulgarians is a tragic chapter in Bulgaria’s history. It reflects the broader pattern of Stalin’s brutal policies, which disregarded national sovereignty and individual rights in favor of maintaining tight control over the Soviet sphere of influence. For the Tavrian Bulgarians, their forced deportation was not just a physical removal but also a symbolic erasure of their identity and connection to their ancestral homeland. Their experience is a poignant reminder of the human cost of political repression and the long shadow cast by totalitarian regimes.

Testimonies from the Era

Accounts from the time, such as those found in the Democracy newspaper on September 5, 1994, reveal the extent of the brutality involved. Mircho Spasov, a former member of the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party, openly admitted that the party delayed the installation of the People’s Tribunal to eliminate more perceived enemies. He chillingly recounted how prisoners were taken from the militia department, loaded onto trucks late at night, and driven away, never to be seen again.

The forced deportation of the Tavrian Bulgarians is a somber reflection of the severe repression and human rights abuses during Stalin’s era. It serves as a crucial reminder of the harsh realities faced by many ethnic groups caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflicts. The legacy of these events continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of remembering and learning from the past to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.