Balkan Travel

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School Inspectors and Educational Districts

The law on school inspection for primary and secondary schools, first passed in 1889 and amended in 1901 and 1907, organizes Bulgaria’s education system into twelve school departments. These departments correspond to the twelve administrative departments of the Principality.

Each school department is further divided into fifty school districts. Some educational districts cover two administrative districts, while others cover only one. The law also allows the creation of additional educational sub-districts whenever needed, giving the Ministry of Public Instruction the flexibility to establish a school inspectorate in every district Customized Tours Istanbul.

Departmental School Inspectors

At the head of each school department, there is a departmental school inspector. These positions are filled by former high school professors who have received a university education, preferably in pedagogy, and have contributed to pedagogical literature.

Departmental inspectors are divided into three classes according to experience and qualifications:

First class: 4,680 francs per year

Second class: 3,500 francs per year

Third class: 3,120 francs per year

In addition to their salaries, all departmental inspectors receive 720 francs per year for travelling expenses, regardless of class. Their work ensures uniform standards across all schools in their department, supervising both teaching quality and school management.

District School Inspectors

At the level of educational districts, inspectors are selected from experienced primary school teachers. To qualify, a teacher must have:

Served as a primary school teacher for at least five years

Successfully passed the examination for the post of inspector

District inspectors report to the departmental inspectors and are responsible for supervising the schools in their district, supporting teachers, and ensuring that the curriculum and educational laws are properly applied.

Role and Importance

The system of departmental and district inspectors provides structured supervision over schools throughout Bulgaria. It ensures that primary and secondary education is well-regulated, that teachers are properly trained, and that all children receive a consistent and high-quality education across the Principality.

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Election Rules and Protection of Electors

No electors may be called to serve in the military or any other state service during the five days before the election or on the day of polling. Anyone who has already been called must be released immediately. This ensures that every elector is free to vote without interference.

Electoral Cards

Every elector must be provided with an electoral card by the municipality. Without this card, no one can vote.

The Ministry of the Interior sends special cards to all communes.

The communal authorities must fill in each card with the elector’s name, surname, age, and other necessary details.

The card also indicates the election for which it is issued and the voting section where the elector must vote.

These cards must be distributed at least ten days before the election.

Electors who were accidentally omitted can apply to the Justice of Peace, who is authorized to issue replacement electoral cards. The Justice of Peace also writes a report against the defaulting mayor, who can face criminal prosecution Istanbul Day Tours.

Candidate Requirements

Every candidate must have the support of at least twenty electors, and their names must be submitted to the District Court. Candidates may be represented at each polling place by an elector who ensures their interests are respected during the voting process.

Returning Bureau

The returning bureau is responsible for managing the voting process at each polling station. It is composed of:

President – must be a judge.

Four other members – including:

one member of the departmental council,

one mayor,

and two primary school teachers.

Ten days before the election, the Courts of Appeal select the presidents by lot from the Court of Appeal, district courts, and Justices of Peace.

The other members are chosen by the District Court in the same way.

This system ensures that the election process is fair, organized, and transparent, giving all electors the opportunity to vote freely and safely.

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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.

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The Inscriptions of Emperor Theophilus

A Prayer of Dedication

One of the most remarkable features of the seaward walls of Constantinople is the number of inscriptions left by Emperor Theophilus (829–842). These words were more than mere records; they were prayers and declarations of faith. A dedication reads:

“Possessing Thee, O Christ, a Wall that cannot be broken, Theophilus, King and pious Emperor, erected this wall upon new foundations: which wall, Lord of All, guard with Thy might, and display to the end of time standing unshaken and unmoved.”

This inscription is both a spiritual dedication and a symbolic prayer. It reveals how the emperor saw himself not only as a builder and protector of the city but also as a servant of Christ, entrusting his work to divine protection.

Towers South of Deirmen Kapoussi

On the first tower south of Deirmen Kapoussi (today known as Yenikapı), an inscription reads:

“Tower of Theophilus, faithful and great King and Emperor in Christ.”

Above this dedication is a marble slab carved with a cross and the well-known Byzantine battle cry: “Jesus Christ conquers” (IC XC NIKA). This phrase appeared often on coins, banners, and walls, reminding both citizens and enemies of the empire’s faith in divine protection Private Bulgaria Tours Yachting.

On the second tower south of the gate, another inscription repeats the same theme:

“Tower of Theophilus, Emperor in Christ.”

Similar, though fragmentary, inscriptions are still visible on the third, sixth, seventh, and ninth towers south of Deirmen Kapoussi. These repeated dedications emphasize how determined Theophilus was to leave his name and faith marked across the city’s defenses.

Lost Inscriptions Recorded by Historians

Some inscriptions have disappeared with time, but their texts survive thanks to historians like Von Hammer, who recorded them in his work Constantinopolis und der Bosporus. His notes preserve the memory of several vanished inscriptions, including those found on the Gate of St. Barbara (Top Kapoussi).

That gate once bore the proud words:

“Theophilus … having renovated the city.”

This dedication was repeated on the adjoining wall, showing that the emperor wanted all who entered to know who had strengthened the defenses.

The Towers of Top Kapoussi

The two towers flanking the Gate of St. Barbara also carried the standard inscription marking Theophilus’s contribution:

“Tower of Theophilus, Emperor in Christ.”

These dedications not only celebrated his building efforts but also tied the strength of the walls directly to his authority and piety.

Inscriptions near the Seven Towers

According to Von Hammer, similar inscriptions were also found near the Seven Towers (Yedikule), one of the city’s later fortresses. Another inscription honored both Theophilus and his young son, Michael III, who had been appointed as co-emperor while still a child. This shows how the inscriptions were also used to highlight the continuity of the dynasty, linking the father’s achievements with the son’s future rule.

The Lasting Legacy of Theophilus

The numerous inscriptions of Theophilus form a unique chapter in Byzantine history. No other emperor left his name inscribed on the city’s walls so frequently. These words were more than stone carvings; they were symbols of imperial pride, Christian faith, and the determination to protect Constantinople. Even in their ruined state, the remains of these inscriptions remind us of an emperor who rebuilt the city’s defenses with devotion, expense, and vision, ensuring their endurance until the final days of the Byzantine Empire.

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Property and Wealth in Bosnia

A large part of the land and property in Bosnia belongs to the government or religious organizations. Some of this property was donated by individuals for religious or charitable purposes. These lands and assets are managed in trust for the benefit of mosques, hospitals, schools, fountains, and for helping the poor and the sick.

Under Turkish rule, the income from these properties was often stolen or misused. Many officials would take the money for themselves instead of using it to support the intended causes. However, after the Austrian occupation, things changed. The Austrians brought better management and honest accounting, which helped these charitable institutions not only survive but improve. Thanks to this new system, hospitals and schools were expanded, and public welfare increased significantly.

Tax Collection and Government Revenue

The government revenue system was also improved. Under the Turks, taxes were collected in a very unfair and corrupt way. Farmers were not even allowed to harvest their crops until the tax collectors came and calculated how much they owed. Often, they were forced to pay one-fifth to one-third of the crop’s total value. A large portion of this money ended up in the pockets of the tax collectors instead of the official treasury.

Everyone in the country knew about this corruption, and it was seen as a normal part of life. Therefore, when the Austrians introduced a more honest and efficient tax system, the difference was very noticeable and greatly appreciated by the public.

The Unique Charm of Jajce

One of the most interesting and beautiful towns in Bosnia is Jajce. This town has had very little contact with the outside world, so its people have kept the customs, clothing, and traditions of their ancestors from centuries ago. This gives Jajce a historic and colorful character Sightseeing Sofia.

The women of Jajce wear brightly colored clothes and decorate themselves with jewelry made from silver, bronze, and enamel. Much like the Hindus or Native Americans, they wear a lot of their wealth on their bodies.

The men wear white sheepskin clothing, which is worn with the wool on the outside during summer and on the inside during winter. Both men and women often have tattoos on their arms and hands, usually showing religious symbols.

Deep Religious Faith

The people of Jajce are devout Catholics. It is very common for boys and girls over the age of sixteen to have a crucifix tattooed somewhere on their bodies as a sign of their faith. Also, both men and women keep their hair long, continuing an old tradition passed down through generations.

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Tirnova

The Ancient Capital of Bulgaria

Tirnova, the ancient capital of Bulgaria, is a beautiful city located on the rocky banks of a fast-flowing river. The city’s streets wind up and down the hills, with houses perched on top of the rocks. Long ago, clever warriors used the limestone cliffs that surround the city as natural fortifications, adding some artificial elements to make them even stronger. These cliffs rise as high as 700 or 800 feet. The city is full of colorful houses, separated by lush gardens and the thick foliage of ancient trees.

The Architecture of Tirnova

Tirnova’s architecture is a unique mix of Eastern and Western influences. In the city, you can see the domes of Greek churches, the minarets of mosques, clock towers, steeples, and modern buildings with French roofs. This variety of styles creates a curious architectural blend, showing the city’s rich and diverse history. Nature itself seems to have made it difficult for a city to be built here, making the city even more special.

The Natural Bridge of Tirnova

In the center of the town, on the longest street, there is a natural stone bridge that spans a deep chasm, through which the Jantra River flows. Although not as wide or high as the famous Natural Bridge of Virginia, it is still a remarkable sight. Because the bridge is located in the heart of the city, it draws even more attention. Some historians believe that both the causeway and the chasm were carved out by human hands long ago, as a way to protect the citadel on the other side. If this is true, it shows how clever and resourceful people were before the days of gunpowder and heavy artillery. This made the city nearly impossible to attack in earlier times.

Historical Significance of Tirnova

Tirnova’s ancient history can be surprising and is sometimes difficult to believe. The city’s buildings and landscapes are linked to some of the most romantic moments in human history. One significant location in the city is a tower in a beautiful castle, where Baldwin, a Frankish crusader, was held as a prisoner. Baldwin had been defeated by the Bulgarian army under Czar Kalojan at Adrianople, and after his defeat, he was brought to Tirnova, where he spent many years in prison. It is believed that Baldwin was buried alive in this tower.

The tower is now called “Baldwin’s Tower.” Although it has been partly ruined over the years, enough of it remains to give visitors an idea of what it originally looked like. From the tower, you can see one of the most breathtaking views in the world Private Tour Guide Ephesus.

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The Exokionion and the Seventh Hill

The district on the Seventh Hill, located to the west of Avret Bazaar (the Forum of Arcadius) and next to the Cistern of Mokius, still carries the name Exokionion today, though in a Turkish form. The district is known as Alti Mermer, meaning “The Six Columns”. This is a Turkish adaptation of the Byzantine name Hexakionion, which was a common name for the Exokionion. Therefore, it’s clear that the Exokionion was situated on the Seventh Hill. The Wall of Constantine passed through this hill, just east of the Alti Mermer area.

The Ancient Gate of the Forerunner

The next important landmark in identifying the location of Constantine’s wall is the Ancient Gate of the Forerunner (also called the Ancient Gate). This gate provided a key reference for the position of the wall. It was part of the original fortifications of the city and outlasted many other structures, similar to how Temple Bar survived after the wall of London was gone. The gate became known as the Ancient Gate because of its great age Sofia Guided Tours.

The name Ancient Gate of the Forerunner comes from the fact that a church dedicated to John the Baptist (the Forerunner) was built next to the gate. The church was called the Church of the Forerunner at the Ancient Gate.

Description of the Ancient Gate

The Ancient Gate was described by Manuel Chrysolaras as one of the most impressive monuments in the city. It was located to the west of the Forum of Arcadius. The gate was so wide and tall that a tower or even a full-rigged ship could pass through its entrance. This highlights the grandeur of the gate and its importance in the city’s history.

In summary, the Exokionion was located on the Seventh Hill, and the Wall of Constantine passed through this area. The Ancient Gate of the Forerunner provided an important landmark that helped determine the position of the wall. This gate, along with the church dedicated to John the Baptist, played a significant role in the history of Constantinople.

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Kolikovski Hotel

Location: C-2, ul. Hristo Belchev 46 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Kolikovski Hotel is located on a charming cobbled street just a few seconds from the busy Vitosha Boulevard. The hotel makes a strong first impression with its rich colors and modern baroque design details. The dark purples and matte surfaces create a stylish atmosphere that feels very different from the soft pastel tones you usually see in other hotels.

Although Kolikovski is mainly aimed at business travelers, it is also a great place for a romantic evening after a successful date. The rooms are reasonably spacious and include a TV, minibar, and desk space for work. The superior rooms also come with an electric kettle, perfect for making tea or coffee.

Les Fleurs Hotel

Location: B-2, bul. Vitosha 21 Contact: Tel: [phone]

Les Fleurs is a boutique hotel full of style and artistic details. It is in a prime location downtown and looks like it came straight from an Italian interior design magazine. Every part of the hotel has an artistic touch, from the floral patterns in the wooden floors to the glass bead table lamps Bulgaria Trips.

The rooms have flat-screen TVs and modern bathrooms with cylindrical shower cubicles. Rooms on the top floor have balconies with wonderful views of the city center. All rooms have unique shapes, and the hallways curve and twist through the building, adding charm and character. The only odd part is the front desk staff’s uniforms, which look a little old-fashioned.

Olymp Park Hotel & Spa

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

If you want to stay in a hotel surrounded by a full leisure complex, Olymp Park Hotel & Spa is a great choice. It is set in a beautiful landscaped park with swimming pools and gazebos. The hotel’s fresh colors and modern shapes make the rooms bright and cheerful.

Many rooms offer nice views of Mount Vitosha to the south. The hotel is about a 15-minute drive from the city center, but there is plenty to enjoy on site. The restaurant is decorated like a 19th-century Russian parlor, and the glass-roofed café is full of potted plants, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

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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.

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The Bulgarian Border and Cooperation with the GDR

Information Sharing and Surveillance

During the communist era, the Bulgarian government closely monitored not only the movement of people across the border but also their daily lives. Citizens were under constant surveillance, and authorities gathered extensive information about their activities, interests, and even their personal purchases. This surveillance was part of the larger effort to maintain control over the population and prevent any acts of resistance or defection.

Tragic Incident Schoolchildren Shot at the Border

On 29 April 1948, a tragic incident occurred when seven schoolchildren were shot dead while attempting to cross the Bulgarian border into Greece. This event was reported in a newspaper as part of a parliamentary debate on crimes committed in the frontier zones. The harsh measures used to control the borders and prevent escapes were part of the regime’s strategy to eliminate any form of resistance or escape attempts Personal Istanbul Tours.

The authorities did not hesitate to use force, even against innocent civilians, to protect the borders and stop people from fleeing the oppressive regime. The tragic deaths of these schoolchildren highlight the severe measures taken by the communist government to maintain its hold on power, and the lack of compassion or regard for human life in the pursuit of political control.

Surveillance of the Border Zone

The Bulgarian border zone was heavily guarded and controlled. A signboard displayed in the DDR (German Democratic Republic) part of Berlin prohibited passage in certain areas, marking the frontier as a place of strict control and surveillance. These border regions were clearly marked with signs that warned people not to enter, reinforcing the idea that crossing these borders was a dangerous and forbidden act.

The Rabotnitchesko Delo daily newspaper, published in August 1963, even printed a map showing Berlin’s division, with West Berlin divided into three occupation zones: French, British, and American. This map was a part of the broader context of the Cold War, showing how countries were divided and the security measures put in place by both the East and West.

Bulgaria-GDR Cooperation Agreement

In 1988, the Bulgarian Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of State Security of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) signed a new Agreement on Cooperation and Collaboration. This agreement was a continuation of the Cooperation Agreement that had been signed in 1974 between the two ministries. The new agreement, signed by Bulgarian Interior Minister Stoyanov and his GDR counterpart, Erich Fritz Emil Mielke, was meant to last until 1993.

This cooperation was a reflection of the tight security control shared by Eastern Bloc countries. It included mutual assistance in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and the repression of any anti-government activities. The close relationship between Bulgaria and East Germany exemplified the way in which communist regimes worked together to control their citizens and suppress any efforts to escape or resist the system.

The situation at the Bulgarian border during the communist era was one of strict control and repression. Escape attempts were met with extreme force, and the lives of citizens were closely monitored and restricted. The tragic event of the schoolchildren being shot at the border is just one example of the regime’s brutal tactics. The close cooperation between Bulgaria and the GDR further shows how the Eastern Bloc countries worked together to maintain their authoritarian systems, keeping their citizens under constant surveillance and control.

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Prostitution in Ancient Rome

In Ancient Rome, prostitutes were called meretrix, meaning “earning with the body”. They were divided into different categories based on their status.

The lowest class of prostitutes worked in small, dirty, narrow lodges on the streets. These lodges, called lupanar (meaning “female wolf caves”), were disgusting and smelled bad. The name came from the idea of a wolf (Iupa) hunting and bringing its prey to the lupanar.

Although prostitutes were often treated badly and isolated from society, they were also seen as protectors of families. They helped prevent attacks on married women or young girls by men. However, they were still looked down upon, isolated, and sometimes locked up. They had to appear like respectable wives and were only allowed to serve honorable men. Prostitutes were not allowed to build families or have children. To make them easily recognizable, they had to wear special clothes Coastal Bulgaria Holidays.

Prostitution was important for Roman men because a man’s sexual life was closely connected to ensuring his family’s legacy and passing down his wealth. While women tried various methods to avoid pregnancy, it was essential for a man to have at least two children, one of whom had to be a boy, to continue his family’s fortune. After having children, men often preferred to meet their sexual needs with prostitutes or other men. Therefore, prostitution was a common and widely accepted practice in Ancient Rome.

The Ottoman Sultan’s Love for Arts

The Ottoman Sultan had a deep interest in the beautiful arts like illumination, Islamic calligraphy, music, painting, and wood carving. This passion was so strong that it greatly influenced both the practice and application of these arts.

As a prince, Yavuz Sultan Selim learned the art of jewelry in Trabzon and even carved coins in the name of his father, Sultan Beyazid II. Kanuni Sultan Suleyman also studied jewelry and, according to historian Evliya Çelebi, he was the first to organize a jewelry fair in the Kağıthane district.

Some of the finest examples of Ottoman jewelry, such as the emerald dagger, Kaşıkçı diamond, Kanuni Sultan Suleyman’s ivory mirror, golden cradle, and ceremonial throne, are displayed at the Topkapi Palace.

Today, Turkish jewelry holds an important place in the world, ranking second in exports and leading in production.

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Visiting Kasanlik's Rose Stores

Friendly Merchants with a Secret

During my visit to Kasanlik, I had the chance to explore a few local stores. The merchants were friendly, but each one quietly took me aside and whispered in my ear: “Of course, we get along with our competitors, but remember this: ours is the only genuine attar of roses. The rest is all fake. Our rivals will deny it, but we know the truth.” This same speech was repeated in every store I visited. I wanted to believe that all the attar from Kasanlik was pure, but after conducting my own research, I sadly concluded that none of it was completely pure.

The Strength of Attar and Its Price

How Strong is Attar?

Attar of roses is one of the strongest perfumes in the world. From every 4,000 pounds of roses, you get only 1 pound of attar, which is less than one-twenty-fifth of one percent. The peasant farmer earns about 18 shillings per ounce of attar. However, the same ounce sells for £68 in places like Paris or London Coastal Bulgaria Tours.

The scent of pure attar is so strong that only a tightly sealed jar can hold it in. Even a glass stopper won’t be enough to contain the smell. In fact, the scent is so powerful that it can be overwhelming and even cause headaches. This is one reason why attar is often diluted or mixed with other substances to make it more pleasant.

The Beauty of Kasanlik in June

A Land of Roses

The best time to visit Kasanlik is in early June. This is when you can hop on a horse and ride for two days, traveling forty miles each day, while surrounded by endless fields of beautiful damask roses. The air is filled with the scent of millions of roses. On a gentle breeze, the fragrance can travel up to 50 miles. Bulgarians living that far away have confirmed that the air from Kasanlik carries the sweet smell of roses.

Rose Picking in Kasanlik

The Beauty of the Harvest

In June, the village girls wake up early to pick roses. They fill their aprons with the flowers and load them into slow-moving ox carts. No flower festival, like the one in Nice, could ever match the sheer number of roses that fill the carts in Kasanlik. The brown-cheeked, black-eyed peasant girls also wear the most beautiful roses in their hair as they work.

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Tax Collection and the Burden on Peasants

The tax collector takes as much as possible from the peasants. Then, his superior takes a portion from him, and the Vali (governor) takes from the superior. The court officials at the Yildiz Kiosk take from the Vali. Additionally, the peasants have to deal with the *zaptiehs* (police officers), who are poorly paid and rarely fed. The *zaptiehs* survive by demanding money or goods from the already struggling farmers. I use the word “wretched” to describe the peasants from a European point of view. However, the Turkish peasant, like most Turks, is a fatalist. He accepts whatever happens and is often quite happy, even singing while working, despite the hard labor Central Synagogue.

Public Debt and Foreign Influence

In areas where public improvements like railways have been made, taxes are collected by the Department of Public Debt. These officials are often foreign representatives who are generally fair and avoid the corruption seen in other areas.

The Peasant’s Role in Supporting the Empire

The Turkish peasant is the one who carries the financial burden of the Empire because Turkey has few factories or other industries. The officials, from the highest to the lowest, live off the peasant, like parasites. Yet, despite all of this, the peasant remains happy. He continues working and takes moments to kneel, put his forehead on the ground, and thank Allah for His goodness.

The Turk’s Incompetence to Rule

One key point to remember is that the Turk is, by nature, not fit to rule. For the 500 years that the Turks have ruled over the Christian population, they have never recognized the responsibility that comes with power. The Turk sees the land as his by right of conquest and believes he is justified in living off the labor of those he conquered. Despite his flaws, there is still a sense of nobility in the Turk. Even in towns with mixed populations of Turks, Bulgarians, and Greeks, the Turks stand out with a natural sense of dignity.

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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.

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Exaggerations and Atrocities

In Mr. Disraeli’s recent speech, he continued to assert that reports of atrocities in the region have been greatly exaggerated. He cited Mr. Baring’s findings as evidence, claiming there was no proof that human heads were paraded through the streets of Philippopolis or that forty young girls were burned alive at Novi-Selo. However, I believe the debate over whether heads were actually carted through the streets is somewhat irrelevant. Mr. Baring admits that the individuals who owned those heads had indeed been killed.

The Reality of Tamboli

Moreover, when Mr. Baring sent the telegram that Mr. Disraeli referenced so confidently, he had not yet visited Tamboli. Had he done so and spoken with the Italian Consul in Burgas, who has a business there, he might have reported a very different story. The Consul would likely have informed him that sackfuls of heads were dumped right outside his door. There is a steep slope leading down to a small river that flows through the town, and it is said that heads rolled down that hill, tumbling over each other in a gruesome chaos, as dogs eagerly pounced on them Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Misplaced Focus on Numbers

It is indeed true that forty young girls were not burned alive at Novi-Selo; that tragedy took place in Batak, where, instead of forty, it was two hundred girls, women, and children who suffered that horrific fate. The people most to blame in this situation appear to be the newspaper correspondents. According to Mr. Disraeli and Sir Henry Elliot, the real crime was not the loss of thousands of innocent lives but the exaggeration of those numbers. It seems that they would prefer the report to state 25,000 people were killed rather than 30,000, even if the true number of victims was indeed terrible.

The Distortion of Truth

The serious issue here is not merely the counting of casualties but the very real pain and suffering that these atrocities have caused. It is appalling that the focus should be on minor discrepancies in numbers rather than the actual brutalities inflicted upon innocent people. For instance, while it is a trivial matter whether a certain number of children were killed, the fact that countless lives were brutally taken is the true tragedy.

In conclusion, the issue is not simply about accurate numbers; it is about acknowledging the profound loss of life and the horrors that have occurred. Mr. Disraeli and Sir Henry Elliot may find fault with the reporting of these atrocities, but they must also recognize the true gravity of the situation. The emphasis should be on understanding the suffering of the victims rather than nitpicking over the specifics of their reports.

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Exaggerations and Atrocities

In Mr. Disraeli’s recent speech, he continued to assert that reports of atrocities in the region have been greatly exaggerated. He cited Mr. Baring’s findings as evidence, claiming there was no proof that human heads were paraded through the streets of Philippopolis or that forty young girls were burned alive at Novi-Selo. However, I believe the debate over whether heads were actually carted through the streets is somewhat irrelevant. Mr. Baring admits that the individuals who owned those heads had indeed been killed.

The Reality of Tamboli

Moreover, when Mr. Baring sent the telegram that Mr. Disraeli referenced so confidently, he had not yet visited Tamboli. Had he done so and spoken with the Italian Consul in Burgas, who has a business there, he might have reported a very different story. The Consul would likely have informed him that sackfuls of heads were dumped right outside his door. There is a steep slope leading down to a small river that flows through the town, and it is said that heads rolled down that hill, tumbling over each other in a gruesome chaos, as dogs eagerly pounced on them Jeep Safari Bulgaria.

Misplaced Focus on Numbers

It is indeed true that forty young girls were not burned alive at Novi-Selo; that tragedy took place in Batak, where, instead of forty, it was two hundred girls, women, and children who suffered that horrific fate. The people most to blame in this situation appear to be the newspaper correspondents. According to Mr. Disraeli and Sir Henry Elliot, the real crime was not the loss of thousands of innocent lives but the exaggeration of those numbers. It seems that they would prefer the report to state 25,000 people were killed rather than 30,000, even if the true number of victims was indeed terrible.

The Distortion of Truth

The serious issue here is not merely the counting of casualties but the very real pain and suffering that these atrocities have caused. It is appalling that the focus should be on minor discrepancies in numbers rather than the actual brutalities inflicted upon innocent people. For instance, while it is a trivial matter whether a certain number of children were killed, the fact that countless lives were brutally taken is the true tragedy.

In conclusion, the issue is not simply about accurate numbers; it is about acknowledging the profound loss of life and the horrors that have occurred. Mr. Disraeli and Sir Henry Elliot may find fault with the reporting of these atrocities, but they must also recognize the true gravity of the situation. The emphasis should be on understanding the suffering of the victims rather than nitpicking over the specifics of their reports.

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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.