Religious Life in Greek Villages
Greek villages are often home to men of fine appearance and excellent manners. Interestingly, there are usually more chapels than priests. Every village must...
Identifying the Gate of St. Romanus
Identifying the Gate of St. Romanus (Top Kapı)
Top Kapoussi (modern Top Kapı), located between the sixth and seventh towers north of the Fourth Military...
Identifying the Gate of the Red Faction
Identifying the Gate of the Red Faction (Porta Rhousiou)
The identification of this gate with the name of the Red Faction—Porta Rhousiou—is supported by two...
The Third Military Gate and Its Surroundings
The Third Military Gate is located a short distance north of the Gate of the Pege. It stands between the fourth and fifth towers...
Use of Beads in Turkish Culture
Beads for Prayers and Conversation
In Turkish culture, beads are used not only to count prayers but also for conversational purposes. The Mohammedan faith requires...
The Waterfront of Constantinople
Waterfront Space Taken by Palaces
The waterfront of Constantinople is not used for typical shipping purposes, like docks or warehouses. Instead, it is occupied by...
Caution Regarding National Etiquette
Respect for Veiled Women
The first piece of advice given to strangers in Constantinople is about understanding the local etiquette, especially regarding veiled women. It...
The Price of Prosperity in Ottoman Europe
Wealth Attracts Trouble
In the Ottoman-controlled provinces of Europe, no man was free to improve his life. Whenever someone saved money or gained property, they...
A Land of Constant Conflict
For many centuries, the territory now known as Bulgaria was fought over again and again. Until the end of the 14th century, Christian kingdoms...
The Great Turk and His Capital
The Lost Provinces
The next conflict in Europe may again take place in the Balkan Peninsula. This region lies south of Austria-Hungary. It is bordered...
