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Bayram Ceremonies at the Ottoman Court

Greetings from the Chief Religious Leaders

After the Grand Vizier completed his greeting, the next important person to appear before the Sultan was the Mufti, the highest religious authority in the Ottoman Empire. The writer explains that the Mufti stood at the head of the empire’s religious scholars and legal officials.

Standing with him were several important members of the religious establishment. These included the Kazaskers, who served as the chief military judges for Anatolia and Rumelia; the Nakibü’l-Eşraf, who was responsible for the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad; the Mollahs, who were respected scholars and judges; and the Sheikhs, who served as religious teachers and preachers Kukeri Carnival.

According to the author, the Mufti approached the Sultan with great respect. He bowed deeply, kept his hands on his belt, and kissed the Sultan’s left shoulder. In return, the Sultan stepped forward one pace to greet him before returning to his throne. This small gesture showed the special honor given to the highest religious official.

A Carefully Ordered Ceremony

After the Mufti, the remaining officials came forward one by one according to their rank. The writer explains that each person’s greeting depended on his position within the Ottoman government.

Some officials were permitted to kiss the Sultan’s hand, while others kissed the edge of his robe, his sleeve, or even his chest. These differences reflected the importance of each person’s office and their relationship to the Sultan.

The author remarks that the ceremony was so detailed and precise that an entire book had been written explaining every movement and every rule. Even the smallest gesture followed long-established traditions, and every official knew exactly how to behave during the ceremony.

The last senior official to offer his greetings was the Janissary Agha, the commander of the famous Janissary army. His appearance marked the end of the formal greetings by the highest officers of the empire.

The Inner Palace Ceremony

After the public ceremony was completed, the Sultan moved into a more private room within the Topkapı Palace, known in the old text as the Seraglio. There he received the greetings of the palace staff.

The first to enter were the Arz Ağaları, four of the Sultan’s principal pages, who served him closely inside the palace. After them came the palace eunuchs and the remaining pages. Each person paid respect to the Sultan according to palace custom before leaving the chamber.

A Feast for the Officials

While these ceremonies were taking place, a large meal was prepared in the Divan Chamber, where the highest government officials gathered. After completing their formal duties, they shared a generous banquet provided at the Sultan’s expense.

The meal was not only a celebration of Bayram but also an opportunity for the empire’s leading officials to meet together in a spirit of unity and loyalty.

Gifts from the Sultan

At the end of the celebration, the Sultan presented valuable robes of honor, known as robes of office, to sixteen of his highest-ranking officials. Receiving one of these robes was a great privilege and symbolized the Sultan’s favor and appreciation.

These gifts marked the conclusion of the Bayram ceremony and strengthened the bond between the ruler and his senior servants.

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Bektashi Tradition and the Death of Sultan Murad

The Military Campaign in Serbia

During the time of the warlike Ottoman Sultan Murad I, the Ottoman army entered Serbia. In this campaign, Sultan Murad defeated Lazar, the ruler (Despot) of Serbia, in battle, and Lazar was killed during the fighting.

This event marked an important moment in Ottoman history, as it showed the expansion of Ottoman power into the Balkans.

Bektashi Preacher in the Ottoman Army

At that time, a Bektashi preacher served in the army of Sultan Murad. The Bektashi were a religious order that often accompanied soldiers and provided spiritual guidance Istanbul Day Trip.

This preacher is said to have warned the Sultan not to trust the Serbians too easily. He advised caution and careful judgment during the campaign.

However, Sultan Murad, trusting his own strength and confidence, did not fully follow this advice.

The Assassination of Sultan Murad

According to the story, a Serbian nobleman named Miloš was allowed to approach the Sultan under the excuse of showing respect and kissing his hand. However, he secretly carried a dagger.

When he came close enough, he suddenly attacked and stabbed Sultan Murad in the heart, killing him. This event is remembered as the assassination of the Sultan on the battlefield.

The sudden death of the Sultan shocked the Ottoman army and changed the course of events in the region.

The Fate of the Bektashi Preacher

The Bektashi preacher understood that the death of the Sultan would also bring danger to him, since he had been close to the ruler and had predicted the attack.

Realizing this, he did not try to escape. Instead, he accepted his fate and prepared for his own death calmly.

The White Cloak and Symbolic Gesture

Before his death, the preacher prepared a white robe with long sleeves. He offered this robe to his followers and admirers.

Those who respected him were asked to kiss the sleeves as a sign of obedience and loyalty to him and to his teachings.

This act became an important symbolic tradition among his followers.

The Origin of a Court Tradition

It is said that from this practice came the later custom of kissing the sleeve of the Ottoman Sultan (Grand Signior). This gesture was seen as a sign of respect, loyalty, and submission to authority.

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The Belief in Camel Souls

In Gran Cairo (Cairo), there were many followers of a peculiar belief in the transmigration of souls, similar to the Munafihi sect. A dorgist, a learned member of this community, explained his prayers and hopes regarding the souls of humans after death. He prayed that their souls might one day inhabit the bodies of camels, which are considered patient, meek, hardworking, and temperate animals.

He believed that camels, especially those brought from distant parts of the East, were honorable vessels for the soul. The dorgist imagined that after 365 years, a soul could travel through several bodies of camels across generations. Eventually, the soul would return to a human body, purified and refined beyond its original state. This belief reflects a long-term spiritual view of moral refinement, linking virtue in life to the journey of the soul across different forms. It is said that this opinion is widely held in China as well Istanbul Daily Tour.

The Esfbraki Contemplation of the Divine

Another sect, called Esfbraki, which means “Illuminated,” focused on Platonical ideas and the contemplation of God’s nature. They accepted the unity of God but also recognized a Trinity as a number proceeding from that Unity. To explain this, they used the example of a handkerchief folded three times: though it has three folds, it remains one entire piece of linen.

Followers of the Esfbraki were less concerned with the literal composition of the Alchoran (Qur’an). They selectively embraced passages that fit their beliefs, using them to support their doctrines, and rejected or ignored the rest. They focused on the contemplation of God’s majesty as the highest form of bliss in Paradise. Earthly rewards or conventional visions of heaven were considered less important than spiritual insight and divine understanding.

Philosophy Over Ritual

Both the camel soul followers and the Esfbraki demonstrate how mystical and philosophical ideas developed alongside orthodox Islamic beliefs. They prioritized spiritual purification and divine contemplation over strict adherence to traditional practices. These sects show the diversity of thought among Muslims in the Ottoman Empire and neighboring regions, highlighting how religion, philosophy, and personal interpretation often merged in complex ways.

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The Early Heroes of the Faith

Was not Ebubecher the first to embrace the faith? Was not Omar the brave champion of the Mahometan religion against the Christians? Was not the one who organized and distinguished the chapters of the Alchoran—the sacred text—the wisest among men? Was not Halt the brave and learned bearer of the Zulfsay, the “Sword with two points”? Were not Imam Hajjan and Imam Husein martyrs of the faith in the deserts of Kerlela?

These early figures set the foundation of the religion through courage, learning, and devotion. They are remembered for their service to God and the Prophet, for defending the faith, and for guiding others in law, prayer, and moral life Daily Ephesus Tours.

The Warning of Predestination

Mobomet himself said to Halt: “For your sake, there are two types of people predestined to Hell—one that loves you and one that does not.” This shows the importance of loyalty, good conduct, and proper devotion to the family of the Prophet. Those who claim the red turban, yet live wickedly and disregard the teachings of the Prophet, are condemned. Their actions, words, and moral choices separate them from the true followers of the faith.

Respect for the Prophet’s Friends

Christians honor the relics of Christ, such as the house He lived in or the objects He touched, placing them in cases of gold and silver. They treat these relics with great reverence, believing that contact with them is a blessing.

Yet, those who claim to be disciples of the Prophet of God, and who descend from the family of His closest companions, often act in the opposite manner. Instead of showing respect, they curse and blaspheme against these holy friends of the Prophet immediately after prayer, even though the Ezan calls people to worship. Such behavior dishonors both the Prophet and the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the faith.

The early leaders of the faith were models of courage, devotion, and moral life. True followers are expected to honor these examples, to respect the family of the Prophet, and to avoid curses and blasphemies. Those who fail in these duties, while claiming the title of red turbans or disciples, undermine the faith they profess and bring shame upon themselves. True devotion requires both correct belief and proper conduct in daily life.

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Authority of the Mufti

The Mufti is the highest religious authority in the Mahometan system, respected for his knowledge of Islamic law and moral character. Even the Grand Signior (the Sultan) does not contradict or oppose the Mufti’s decisions. This shows the high regard for religious guidance in Ottoman governance.

Nature of the Mufti’s Power

The power of the Mufti is not absolute or coercive. It is mainly advisory and persuasive, guiding both civil and criminal matters as well as state affairs. His role is to interpret the law and offer judgments, but he does not personally enforce them. Instead, his authority is exercised through official documentation Istanbul Private Tours.

How the Mufti Issues Decisions

When a question or case arises, it is first written down briefly and clearly on paper. The Mufti then gives his judgment in writing, usually marked as “Yes,” “No,” or another short determination called a Fetfa. He often adds the phrase “God knows better”, indicating that while his advice is highly respected, it is not considered infallible.

Implementation of Mufti Decisions

Once the Mufti’s decision is written, it is sent to the Cadet or Judge, who follows it closely when making legal judgments. This process allows even the most important cases to be resolved quickly, often within an hour, without the delays of appeals, objections, or other legal procedures common in other systems. The Mufti’s guidance ensures that law and religion work together efficiently in the Ottoman Empire.

In summary, the Mufti holds a position of great influence and respect. His power is persuasive rather than compulsory, guiding civil, criminal, and state matters. Through his written determinations, judges administer justice quickly and effectively. Although his decisions are not considered infallible, they are treated as authoritative and binding, showing the strong connection between religion and law in the Ottoman system.

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The King of Poland and the Ottoman Court

The King of Poland was highly respected among the Christian princes at the Ottoman Court, though not considered the most powerful. His reputation came primarily from his great cavalry, which the Turks considered the most warlike and effective force in Europe. The Ottoman opinion was that the Polish people were brave and martial, and that it was difficult to bring them under control.

Challenges in Poland

Despite their military strength, the internal conflicts and political troubles in Poland made the country somewhat unstable. These difficulties forced Polish rulers to approach the Turks with caution and skill. Since Poland shared a border with the Ottoman Empire, Polish leaders were frequently exposed to raids on their lands, theft of livestock, and attacks on their people. To protect their subjects and maintain peace, the Poles relied on careful diplomacy, seeking reasonable agreements and compromises with the Turks Private Tours Balkan.

Ottoman Interest in Poland

The Turks, in turn, respected and favored Poland more than some neighboring Christian states. They saw the Polish kingdom as strategically valuable, especially as a check against the power of the Muscovites (Russia). The Ottomans understood that Poland could serve as a buffer state, helping to slow or stop the expansion of Muscovite influence into regions important to the Ottoman Empire. In times of conflict, the Turks could rely on Poland to counterbalance Russia’s moves, making their alliance or favorable relations with the Polish king very important.

Diplomatic Balance

Overall, the relationship between the Ottoman Empire and Poland was based on mutual interest and careful diplomacy. Poland needed the Turks to respect its borders and prevent raids, while the Ottomans valued Poland as a powerful ally in Eastern Europe. Both sides maintained a careful balance: the Poles used diplomacy to protect themselves, and the Turks used respect and favor to ensure loyalty and cooperation.

This shows how even powerful states often relied on strategic partnerships and diplomacy rather than force alone, particularly in areas where borders were frequently contested.

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The Problem of a Small Nation Ruling a Large Empire

It is difficult to understand how a small group of people, even if they are brave and wise, can control a very large empire. A handful of men cannot easily govern wide lands filled with many nations and languages. Courage and good policy alone are not enough if there are not enough people to hold the territory.

History gives us an example in Alexander the Great. With an army made mostly of Macedonians, he conquered a great part of the eastern world. His victories were fast and powerful. However, his empire did not last long after his death. It was like a ship with great sails but no ballast to keep it steady. It was also like a tall tree with branches too heavy for its trunk. Without strong roots and support, it quickly fell apart Istanbul Old City Tours.

This shows that conquest alone is not enough. An empire must be supported by a large and stable population if it is to endure.

The Ottoman Policy of Welcoming Many Nations

The Ottoman Turks understood this truth. Throughout the life of their empire, they were very open to receiving people from many different nations. Few empires in history have accepted foreigners so freely.

They used many methods to increase the number of those counted as Turks. Converts to Islam were welcomed. Foreign soldiers, adventurers, and even men with troubled pasts were allowed to enter Ottoman lands and find new opportunity there.

It is remarkable that people from many parts of the world, including some who were poor, restless, or seeking fortune, came to these dominions. They adopted the religion and customs of the empire and became part of its society.

A Mixed People

Over time, the blood of the Turks became mixed with that of many languages and nations. Soldiers, officials, and common people often had ancestors from different lands. As a result, few could claim pure descent from the ancient Saracens or the earliest Turkish tribes.

This mixture did not weaken the empire in its early centuries. Instead, it increased its strength. By welcoming many peoples and joining them under one government and one faith, the Ottomans built a powerful and lasting state.

Their success shows that a growing empire must gather strength not only from its original stock, but also from those who are willing to join and serve it.

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Public Instruction in Bulgaria

Proportion of Boys and Girls

In Bulgaria during the school year 1903–1904, the total number of students showed a significant difference between boys and girls.

Overall, there were approximately 54 girls for every 100 boys. In percentage terms, 68% of students were boys and 32% were girls. This shows that boys attended school more frequently than girls, although girls’ education was steadily improving.

Proportion by Nationality

The ratio of girls to boys varied significantly across different nationalities and types of schools:

Bulgarian national schools: 50.35 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian private schools: 40.62 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Mahommedan schools: 40.60 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Catholic schools: 79.63 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Protestant schools: 92.30 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Turkish schools: 84.76 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Greek schools: 52.70 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Jewish schools: 61.58 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Armenian schools: 85.68 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian French schools: 140.74 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Tartar schools: 81.56 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian German schools: 76.52 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Roumanian schools: 78.41 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Lipovane schools: 0 girls (no female students reported)

Observations

From these figures, several important conclusions can be drawn:

Girls’ attendance is lower than boys’ in most schools, especially in Bulgarian private and Mahommedan schools, where less than half of the students are girls Customised Private Istanbul Tour.

Religious and foreign schools such as Protestant, Catholic, and French schools show higher female attendance, sometimes exceeding the number of boys.

Some communities, like the Lipovanes, did not report any girls attending school.

Overall, the data highlights the need to encourage female education, particularly in certain national and rural communities.

These statistics reflect the educational challenges and progress in early 20th century Bulgaria. They also provide a clear picture of how gender and nationality influenced access to schooling at that time.

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Rules for Contracting State Loans

In Bulgaria, no State loan can be made without the consent of the National Assembly. This ensures that the country does not fall into debt without the approval of the people’s representatives. If the Government believes that borrowing money is absolutely necessary to cover extraordinary expenses while the National Assembly is not in session, the Assembly must be called into an extraordinary session immediately.

However, if serious obstacles prevent the immediate convocation of the Assembly, the Prince, with the advice of the Council of Ministers, may authorize a loan. This loan, however, cannot exceed three million francs. Even in this case, the approval of the National Assembly must be obtained in its next session.

Similarly, the Prince has the power to approve an emergency expenditure of up to one million francs for needs not covered in the national budget. This also requires later confirmation by the Assembly. These rules protect the country’s finances from being used without accountability Istanbul Tours Guide.

The Closure of the Budget

At the end of every financial year, the Budget must be closed through a special law passed by the National Assembly. On this occasion, the Minister of Finance presents a detailed financial report to both the National Assembly and the High Court of Accounts. This report describes the overall financial situation of the country during the year and how public funds have been used.

The High Court of Accounts

The High Court of Accounts plays a vital role in ensuring financial transparency. It is an independent institution with a semi-judicial character, meaning it has both administrative and judicial powers. Its main duty is to carefully control and supervise State finances.

The Court is composed of a president, six councillors, and many reporters and accountants. These officials review the financial actions of the Government, making sure that everything is legal and correctly managed.

Importantly, the president and councillors are appointed by royal decree, but only after being proposed by the National Assembly. The Assembly alone has the authority to revoke them. This guarantees that the Court remains independent from the executive branch and accountable to the representatives of the people.

These financial safeguards show how Bulgaria’s Constitution sought to prevent misuse of public money. By requiring the approval of the National Assembly for loans and expenditures, and by giving oversight to the High Court of Accounts, the system ensured that the nation’s wealth was managed responsibly and transparently.

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Principles of Bulgarian Law

The laws of Bulgaria were designed to respect the religious and civil rights of all citizens. People of different religions were allowed to exercise their civil and political rights without restriction and could hold public office. This was an important guarantee of equality for a country with a diverse population.

Commercial and International Relations

Bulgaria’s commercial relations were also regulated carefully. Commercial treaties concluded with the Ottoman Empire (the Porte) were binding on Bulgaria, and no changes could be made without the agreement of the Power involved. Transit duties could not be charged on goods passing through Bulgaria, protecting the freedom of trade. The rights and privileges of foreign subjects, including the right to consular jurisdiction and protection, were to remain valid until formally changed with the consent of the Powers concerned.

Tribute and Legal Authority

Bulgaria was required to pay tribute to Turkey and to participate in the debts of the Ottoman Empire. Bulgarians traveling in Turkey were subject to Turkish law and authorities, maintaining order and recognition of Ottoman sovereignty outside Bulgaria Guided Tours Turkey.

Autonomy and Sovereignty

While these provisions might suggest that Bulgaria had limited independence, the Treaty of Berlin clearly stated that immediately after the election of the Prince, Bulgaria would enjoy complete autonomy. This meant that in practice, Bulgaria became self-governing from the start. Over time, Bulgaria strengthened its government, gradually moving beyond the status of a vassal and tributary principality of 1878.

Modern Developments

As Bulgaria grew stronger, it was able to abolish the capitulations with the consent of all parties involved, stop paying tribute, and negotiate commercial treaties independently. Relations with Turkey became a matter of mutual agreement, and Bulgaria’s sovereignty increasingly depended on its political, moral, and military strength. Each day brought greater autonomy and recognition of Bulgaria as a sovereign state in the international community.

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The Fortifications of Constantinople in the Late Byzantine Period

Evidence of Andronicus II’s Repairs

Historical sources show that Emperor Andronicus II Palaiologos (1282–1328) carried out important repairs to the fortifications of Constantinople. A notable piece of evidence is a stone slab once found on a tower near the old harbour at Koum Kapoussi (today in Istanbul). The slab bore the monogram and coat-of-arms of the emperor, represented by a lion rampant, crowned, and holding an upright sword. This sign indicated his role in strengthening the city’s defenses.

Byzantine historians such as Pachymeres, Nicephorus Gregoras, and the Metrical Chronicle also mention his contributions to the city walls. Their accounts confirm that Andronicus II tried to continue the defensive works started by his father, Michael VIII Palaiologos, after the recapture of the city in 1261.

Debates About the Seraglio Walls

The scholar Dr. Paspates argued that the land walls of the Seraglio enclosure (where Topkapı Palace later stood) were built by Michael VIII Palaiologos. He believed that after 1261, the grounds around Seraglio Point became part of the imperial palace domain. His reasoning was based on a statement by Cantacuzene, who wrote that the Church of St. Demetrius was located inside the palace Bulgaria Tours.

However, this interpretation is not without problems. The Church of St. Demetrius connected with the emperors was not near the Seraglio Point but closer to the Pharos and the Chrysotriklinion of the Great Palace, further west. Therefore, it seems more likely that the Seraglio Point was not part of the main Byzantine palace complex in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The Storm of 1332

The work of Andronicus II on the Sea of Marmara walls did not last long. On February 12, 1332, just before his death, a powerful storm struck Constantinople. Fierce southern winds drove the waves over the battlements. The storm was so strong that it:

Broke open sections of the walls,

Forced the gates,

And flooded into the city like an invading army.

The sea devastated the nearby quarters of Constantinople, leaving significant destruction behind. Although chroniclers do not give detailed reports about the repairs, it is almost certain that the damage was later fixed by his successor, Andronicus III Palaiologos (1328–1341).

The Importance of Constant Repairs

This episode highlights an important truth about Byzantine Constantinople: the city was always vulnerable to both human attack and natural forces. While its land walls were nearly impregnable, the seaward walls often required repairs due to storms and erosion. Every emperor, from Michael VIII to Andronicus III, had to spend considerable time and resources on maintaining them.

The storm of 1332 is one of several natural disasters that tested the resilience of the city. Despite these challenges, Constantinople remained a symbol of endurance, protected by its fortifications until its final fall to the Ottomans in 1453.

The reigns of Michael VIII, Andronicus II, and Andronicus III demonstrate how crucial the walls of Constantinople were to the survival of the Byzantine Empire. Even nature itself could act like an enemy, as shown by the violent storm of 1332 that tore through the Marmara defenses. Yet, with every crisis, the Byzantines repaired and reinforced their walls, proving that Constantinople’s strength lay not only in stone and mortar but also in the determination of its rulers to defend it at all costs.

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Greece A Railway Journey from Corfu to Corinth

In Greece, there is a narrow-gauge railway that runs from Patras to Corinth. This railway follows the Gulf of Corinth, crossing a ridge that divides the isthmus and continues along the shore of the Saronic Gulf to the capital, Athens. Altogether, there are about 600 miles of railway in operation across Greece, though 300 miles of track have been abandoned Private Sofia Tours.

Abandoned Railroads and Their Importance

You can still find the tracks of the abandoned railroads in different parts of the country. One of the most important routes that was never finished was meant to run through Thessaly (the northern part of Greece) and reach the Turkish border. If it had been completed, this railroad would have been very beneficial for the whole country. The people of southern Greece don’t grow enough food to meet their needs, while northern Greece has plenty of food to spare.

The difference in bread prices between the Peloponnesus (southern Greece) and Thessaly (northern Greece) is extremely high. This is because Thessaly lacks many markets, while southern Greece has few farms. The railroad was supposed to help balance this situation by transporting food, but unfortunately, it was never finished. The rails now lie rusting, and some are even stolen for scrap metal.

Brindisi Gateway to the East

Brindisi, located in Italy, is the main gateway to the East. The steamers that travel to India, China, and Japan stop there, as well as those carrying passengers to and from Paris, London, Berlin, and other European cities. This makes it easier for travelers to avoid a long sea voyage from Bremen and Hamburg (in Germany) and from London and Havre (in France). Instead, they can take a train across Europe.

Special trains with dining cars and sleepers are arranged in connection with these steamers. These trains carry passengers and mail, allowing travelers to reach Paris and Berlin in about 36 hours, and London in 48 hours from Brindisi.

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The Orient Express

A Disappointing Experience

The Orient Express is the famous railway train that runs through Europe, traveling from Calais and Ostend to Constantinople three times a week. While it is widely celebrated, it can be a disappointment when compared to American standards. The journey between Vienna and Sofia is about the same distance as between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, but it takes twice as long to complete the trip. Moreover, the fare is about four times higher than what you would pay in America for a similar distance.

The High Cost and Small Spaces

The extra fare or supplement, as it is called, for riding the Orient Express between Vienna and Sofia is 44 francs, or approximately $8.40. This is almost the full fare between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. For that price, you get a tiny space in a sleeping compartment, not a comfortable Pullman sleeper. The bed is reasonably comfortable, but the space is so narrow that it’s hardly safe to turn over in your sleep. The only way to get fresh air is by opening a window directly above your head, which doesn’t feel very secure.

In contrast, regular trains are just two hours slower than the Orient Express, but they are much cheaper. These trains run every day, and the quality of service is very similar, but the fare is only half the price of the Orient Express.

Bulgaria’s Railroads and Travel Time

Bulgaria has several railroads that connect the country to places like the Black Sea, Bucharest, and Salonika on the Mediterranean. There is also a major trunk line that connects to Constantinople. These railroads are owned by the government and are well-managed, although the trains are very slow. The Orient Express can sometimes reach a speed of 20 miles per hour, but on average, it only travels at 18 miles per hour, which is considered impressive in Bulgaria.

The entire Bulgarian railway system has a total length of 909 miles, with 130 miles of new track currently being built. The country also has an extensive telephone and telegraph network, which is a big improvement over some other countries, including Germany. The telephone service in Germany is so bad that many foreigners avoid using it if possible Private Tour Ephesus.

A Joke with a German Professor

One evening, I jokingly suggested that German words might be too big for the telephone lines, causing problems with the transmission. A professor at the University of Berlin took me seriously and, instead of laughing, he punished me by keeping me in the corner for half an hour while he explained why my suggestion was absurd. Moral of the story: Never joke with German professors.

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The Cistern of Bonus and Its Importance

The Cistern of Bonus was located in a particularly cool area of Constantinople, making it an ideal spot during the hot summer months. Due to this location, Emperor Romanus I decided to build a palace near the cistern. This palace, known as the New Palace of Bonus, served as his residence during the warmer season.

Cool Location and Attractive Views

In Constantinople, there was no cooler place to be in the summer than the terrace where the Mosque of Sultan Selim now stands. The area offered a great view of the Golden Horn, which made it even more attractive. This combination of coolness and breathtaking views made it the perfect spot for the emperor to escape the heat of the summer months Private Sofia Tour.

Proximity to the Church of the Holy Apostles

Another important factor to consider is the Cistern of Bonus’s proximity to the Church of the Holy Apostles. On the eve of an important annual service held in the church to honor Constantine the Great, the Imperial Court would often stay at the Palace of Bonus. This was done to be within easy riding distance of the church for the festival the next morning. The close location of the Palace of Bonus to the Church of the Holy Apostles made it a convenient place for the emperor and his court to stay during the event.

The Route from the Palace to the Church

On the way from the Palace of Bonus to the Church of the Holy Apostles, there was an old cistern that had been converted into market gardens. This cistern might have been the one near the Mosque of Sultan Selim, which further supports the idea that the Cistern of Bonus was located near the mosque.

The Wall of Constantine and Its Relation to the Cistern

The Wall of Constantine, which surrounded Constantinople, passed close to the Cistern of Bonus. Specifically, the wall moved from the Cistern of Aspar to the Golden Horn, passing near the Mosque of Sultan Selim. This supports the idea that the cistern near the mosque could have been the Cistern of Bonus.

A Key Difference in Identification

However, there is a significant issue with identifying the Cistern of Bonus with the reservoir near the Mosque of Sultan Selim. The Cistern of Bonus was roofed, while the reservoir beside the mosque appears to have always been open. This key difference suggests that while the two locations are close, they may not be the same.

The Cistern of Bonus played an important role in the life of Constantinople. It was strategically located in a cool and pleasant area, close to the Palace of Bonus and the Church of the Holy Apostles. While there is evidence to support its location near the Mosque of Sultan Selim, the difference in the structure of the cisterns makes it uncertain whether they are the same. Further research may be needed to fully confirm the exact location of this significant Byzantine landmark.

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Elate Plaza Hotel

Location: H-8, Mladost-1, corner of bul. Alexander Malinov and bul. Andrey Saharov Contact: Tel/Fax: [phone]

Elate Plaza is a small, cozy, and charming hotel located just a four-minute drive south of Sofia’s airport. It sits in a quiet residential neighborhood, making it a peaceful place to stay for travelers.

The rooms at Elate Plaza come in various shapes and sizes. They have a modern style with warm red colors and bright bathrooms. Suites include bathtubs for added comfort. The hotel has a friendly, “make yourself at home” atmosphere, and the staff are very helpful and attentive.

For guests’ convenience, there is a fitness center with a sauna where you can relax after a busy day. The hotel also offers a conference hall that can hold up to 45 people, which makes it suitable for small business meetings Bulgaria Private Tour.

Bulgari Hotel

Location: A-2, Ul. Plrotska 50 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Bulgari Hotel is a small and welcoming place located in a lovely cobbled street in old Sofia. The hotel’s bright tangerine-colored rooms are on the smaller side but come with TVs and usually a small desk.

Bathrooms vary — some have bathtubs while others feature a traditional Bulgarian-style shower without a partition. One special room to request is the ‘Melnik’ room on the top floor, which has a glass-covered balcony that feels like a conservatory and offers great views of the sky.

Breakfast here is served on glass tables decorated with seashells, adding a nice touch to your morning. The hotel is known to be gay-friendly, welcoming all guests warmly.

Central Hotel

Location: B-2, bul. Hristo Botev 52 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Central Hotel is a relatively new hotel located in a convenient downtown area. It offers good value for money with comfortable facilities.

Rooms are decorated in a modern and practical style, mostly featuring showers instead of full bathtubs. The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Sofia’s city center.

Central Forum Hotel

Location: G-7, bul. Tsar Boris III 41 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Central Forum is a recently renovated hotel located about 1 km southwest of Sofia’s downtown area. It is in a mixed residential and commercial neighborhood, making it quiet yet close to the action.

The rooms are not very large but are decorated in soft, creamy colors designed to reduce stress. Although the hotel calls itself four stars, most rooms have showers, and only the ‘luxury’ rooms have real bathtubs.

One nice surprise is that some rooms have electric kettles, a feature rare in Bulgaria hotels.

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Greek Army Actions and the Murder of Eulogius

The Bombardment and Surrender

On June 17th, the Greek Army bombarded a house in Salonika where a small Bulgarian force was stationed. By the next day, June 18th, the Bulgarians surrendered.

On June 18th, the Greeks arrested Eulogius, the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop of Salonica. He was put on board a Greek steamer called the “Mariette Ralli”. Later that evening, he was transferred to another ship, the “Catherine”, where he was treated cruelly Guided Turkey Tours .

On June 19th, the ship set sail, but only three hours later, Eulogius was stabbed and thrown into the sea. The official Greek account claimed that he was killed while fighting in the streets of Salonika, but the Carnegie Commission states that this is not true.

Greek Army Actions Begin

The violent actions of the Greek Army began on July 4th with the first conflict in Kukush. On July 7th, further violence occurred in Demir-Hissar.

On July 12th, King Constantine ordered reprisals based on the events in Demir-Hissar. However, the Carnegie Commission notes that the Greek reprisals started several days before the Bulgarian provocation.

Destruction of Kukush

When the Greek Army entered Kukush, the town was still intact. But today, Kukush is nothing but ruins. The Carnegie Commission points out that the Greek Army started the second war by deliberately burning a Bulgarian town—Kukush.

A Call for Reflection

The Commission concludes by highlighting that if the Greeks had remembered the biblical saying, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone,” they might have hesitated before launching a campaign based on falsehoods and violence that ended up hurting them severely.

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State Security's Operation Against Dissidents

In 1981-1982, the Bulgarian State Security conducted a major surveillance operation called “Dissidents”. This operation targeted a group of creative artists in cities such as Sofia, Bourgas, Varna, Stara Zagora, Yambol, and other areas. The authorities arrested individuals accused of anti-regime activities. Some of them were sent to psychiatric clinics as a way of silencing them. In total, 312 authors of anti-regime leaflets were identified in 1982, with about 45% of them being young people. During this period, the State Security also recorded 141 incidents related to anti-Soviet sentiments.

Rise of Informal Youth Groups

The influence of events in Poland sparked an increase in informal youth groups in Bulgaria. In 1982, there were 64 informal groups with 295 participants, a sharp rise compared to 1980, when there were only 18 groups with 86 members. These groups were seen as a growing threat by the government, as they represented a form of resistance and protest against the communist regime.

“An Open Letter of Appeal”

In autumn 1986, a group of former political prisoners wrote an “Open Letter of Appeal” to the Vienna Conference, which was reviewing the implementation of the Helsinki agreement on human rights. The letter was addressed to representatives of European countries, the USA, and Canada, urging them not to end the conference until the fundamental human rights of all European citizens were fully guaranteed. The authors of the letter stressed that every European citizen should have the freedom to express their thoughts and beliefs, both in oral and written form, without the fear of persecution Customized Tour Istanbul.

Declaration on Human Rights

Along with the Open Letter, the authors also signed a Declaration that was attached to the Memorandum of Dissidents. This memorandum, signed by dissidents from four Eastern European countries, marked the anniversaries of significant uprisings: the Hungarian Uprising, the Berlin Uprising, the Prague Spring, and the Polish events. The declaration highlighted the desire for democracy and freedom in Eastern Europe.

The authors of these documents were Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev. On 16 January 1988, these individuals founded the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association. The goal of the association was to defend human rights and freedoms, which had been severely violated for over 40 years under the communist regime in Bulgaria.

The State Security’s efforts to suppress dissent and protest during the early 1980s showed the extent to which the communist regime sought to control the population. However, these efforts also led to the formation of independent human rights movements, like the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association, which sought to challenge the oppressive government and advocate for freedom of speech and human rights.