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Finding Stability in the Balkans

The Dilemma of Rule

The misrule of the Turk, while widely acknowledged, presents a complex dilemma. While his governance is flawed and reforms are ineffective, granting freedom to the diverse races in Macedonia could lead to chaos. Despite the personal virtues of many Turks, their inability to govern effectively perpetuates injustice and unrest.

A Call for Unity

True progress in the Balkans hinges on a fundamental shift in perspective. Rather than advancing Bulgarian or Greek ambitions, the focus should be on safeguarding the rights of all Christians, irrespective of their denomination. The real tragedy lies in Christians perpetrating atrocities against their own brethren Bulgaria Tour.

A Glimmer of Hope

While many view the Balkan issue with pessimism, there remains a glimmer of hope for resolution. Mere agitation against the Sultan won’t yield positive outcomes. Instead, a concerted effort involving impartial leadership from Great Britain and effective European oversight is necessary.

A Path Forward

To achieve stability, Macedonians must accept the necessity of external control. This can be facilitated by impartial European representatives, ensuring fair governance without territorial ambitions from neighboring states. Suppression of militant groups and propagandists is imperative for progress.

Achieving lasting peace in the Balkans requires a shift in focus from nationalist ambitions to the protection of individual rights. By embracing external oversight and repressing militant elements, Macedonia can pave the way for a brighter and more stable future.

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Fate of Brave Girls

It’s heartening to note that the courageous girls who survived the siege also escaped the horrors of assault. Tragically, many lost their lives as they were mistaken for men and mercilessly shot whenever they appeared. However, those who survived avoided dishonor. Among the hundreds who gathered when we arrived in the village, I saw many defiant gazes from bright eyes, undeterred despite the absence of their tresses. While some women suffered assault, particularly those who surrendered early or attempted to flee into the fields upon the Bashi-Bazouks’ approach, the majority were spared.

Terror-Filled Nights

Describing the nights spent in the church, the Armenian girl painted a terrifying picture. The constant fear of attack, the sounds of distressed children, the lamentations of women witnessing their homes ablaze, and the distant shouts and gunfire all contributed to an atmosphere of terror. The crackling flames illuminated the night sky, casting eerie shadows and engulfing the surroundings in smoke. Despite the chaos, the people in the church found solace in prayer, illuminated by the flickering glow. With the crowded conditions, lying down was impossible, and those who managed to sleep did so sitting or standing. Sleep was elusive for most, particularly amid the children, as the intensity of the situation left little room for rest. This harrowing ordeal persisted until Thursday afternoon Guided Turkey Tours .

A Shift in Events

On Thursday afternoon, a change occurred. Achmet-Aga, the Bashi-Bazouks’ leader, sent word to Philippopolis, claiming that the village had revolted, justifying his attack. Unlike the people of Batak who surrendered and faced slaughter, these villagers refused to submit quietly.

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Sultan Mahmut's Decree

Upon receiving Sultan Mahmut I’s decree, Grand Vizier Mehmet Pasha was instructed about the situation in Iran and the envoy’s return. The Sultan emphasized Mehmet Pasha’s authority and directed him to await further decrees.

Return of Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha

The subsequent decree focused on Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha’s return to Istanbul with the gifts intended for Iran. Thus, all the gifts, including the throne and the emerald-khanjar, were brought back to Topkapi Palace.

Sultan Selim III’s Accession

Mehmet Esat Efendi (Şeyhizade) documented the accession of Sultan Selim III and the funeral of Sultan Abdulhamit I during his reign. The accession ceremony took place in the eleventh month of the year 1203 on a Tuesday Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Mourning and Transition

Upon receiving news of Sultan Abdulhamit I’s death, Kaymakam Pasha communicated with the Minister of Home Affairs regarding matters like the oath of allegiance to the new Sultan and the transfer of the deceased sovereign’s body. High officials convened at the Enderun courtyard, while Sultan Selim III awaited in the Holy Relics department, adorned in a brocaded fur.

Through these decrees and events, the transition of power and ceremonial protocols during Sultan Selim III’s accession are outlined, shedding light on the administrative processes of the Ottoman Empire.

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The Mysterious Bankovsky

The enigmatic figure known as Bankovsky remains shrouded in mystery, his true identity concealed behind a veil of secrecy. Despite efforts to uncover his origins, his real name remains elusive, though it is certain that he was Bulgarian.

Description and Influence

According to Raika, Bankovsky was a striking figure, tall and handsome, with a blonde mustache and piercing blue eyes. His commanding presence and fiery oratory skills captivated the villagers, swaying them with impassioned speeches. Under his influence, they unanimously resolved to revolt upon Servia’s declaration of war, which they anticipated with certainty.

The Need for a Symbol

Recognizing the power of symbolism, the insurgents understood that a flag would galvanize their cause and lend legitimacy to their rebellion. Raika, renowned for her needlework skills, was tasked with embroidering the standard of their uprising. Initially hesitant and aware of the dangers involved, she attempted to dissuade them. However, faced with determination and persuasion from the insurgents, she reluctantly agreed to undertake the task Tour Packages Bulgaria.

Tragic Consequences

To shield her family from potential repercussions, Raika decided to embroider the flag in the house of one of the insurgents, hoping to keep her involvement discreet. Unfortunately, this precaution proved futile. Her father, serving as a priest in the village church, fell victim to the Turkish massacre along with hundreds of others. The flag, now a grim reminder of the rebellion, serves as evidence in ongoing trials.

Symbol of Struggle

The flag, despite its tattered state, bears witness to the villagers’ fervent desire for liberty. Embroidered with a simple yet powerful design—a majestic yellow lion with its paw atop a crescent, symbolizing defiance against Ottoman rule—the flag bears the inscription “Liberty or death” in Bulgarian, embodying the villagers’ unwavering commitment to their cause.

Bankovsky’s influence and the symbolism of the embroidered flag underscore the complex dynamics of the rebellion in Panagurishti. Raika’s involvement, though reluctantly undertaken, tragically intertwines her fate with the unfolding events, highlighting the profound sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and independence.

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The Mysterious Bankovsky

The enigmatic figure known as Bankovsky remains shrouded in mystery, his true identity concealed behind a veil of secrecy. Despite efforts to uncover his origins, his real name remains elusive, though it is certain that he was Bulgarian.

Description and Influence

According to Raika, Bankovsky was a striking figure, tall and handsome, with a blonde mustache and piercing blue eyes. His commanding presence and fiery oratory skills captivated the villagers, swaying them with impassioned speeches. Under his influence, they unanimously resolved to revolt upon Servia’s declaration of war, which they anticipated with certainty.

The Need for a Symbol

Recognizing the power of symbolism, the insurgents understood that a flag would galvanize their cause and lend legitimacy to their rebellion. Raika, renowned for her needlework skills, was tasked with embroidering the standard of their uprising. Initially hesitant and aware of the dangers involved, she attempted to dissuade them. However, faced with determination and persuasion from the insurgents, she reluctantly agreed to undertake the task Tour Packages Bulgaria.

Tragic Consequences

To shield her family from potential repercussions, Raika decided to embroider the flag in the house of one of the insurgents, hoping to keep her involvement discreet. Unfortunately, this precaution proved futile. Her father, serving as a priest in the village church, fell victim to the Turkish massacre along with hundreds of others. The flag, now a grim reminder of the rebellion, serves as evidence in ongoing trials.

Symbol of Struggle

The flag, despite its tattered state, bears witness to the villagers’ fervent desire for liberty. Embroidered with a simple yet powerful design—a majestic yellow lion with its paw atop a crescent, symbolizing defiance against Ottoman rule—the flag bears the inscription “Liberty or death” in Bulgarian, embodying the villagers’ unwavering commitment to their cause.

Bankovsky’s influence and the symbolism of the embroidered flag underscore the complex dynamics of the rebellion in Panagurishti. Raika’s involvement, though reluctantly undertaken, tragically intertwines her fate with the unfolding events, highlighting the profound sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and independence.

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Unfathomable Horrors Unveiled

Conflicting Figures

Reports from various sources paint a harrowing picture of devastation and loss in the regions surrounding Philippopolis and Tatar Bazardjik. Mr. Baring’s forthcoming report is expected to document approximately fifty villages razed to the ground and nearly 15,000 lives lost. However, this figure is considered conservative, as French and Russian Consuls, along with railway officials, offer significantly higher estimates, suggesting over a hundred villages decimated and casualties ranging from 25,000 to 40,000. Shockingly, some claim the death toll to be as high as 100,000.

Overwhelming Horror

Once the staggering figure of 15,000 lives lost in just four days is acknowledged, further inquiry seems almost futile. The magnitude of suffering encapsulated in this statistic is unfathomable. Whether the higher estimates are accurate or not, the horror remains undiminished. It’s not the numerical increase that intensifies the horror but the gruesome details that accompany the carnage Turkey Sightseeing.

Heart-Wrenching Testimonies

Accounts from eyewitnesses provide chilling insights into the barbarity unleashed upon innocent civilians. The Greek Consul recounts the horrific fate of 12,000 women and children herded into Tatar Bazardjik, subjected to unspeakable atrocities. Stories emerge of desperate Bulgarian parents resorting to unthinkable acts, such as killing their own families to spare them from the brutality of the Bashi-Bazouks. German officials recount scenes of unimaginable cruelty, including the mutilation of men’s bodies left for animals to devour, the agonizing torment inflicted upon helpless children, and the brutal execution of a priest who witnessed the annihilation of his loved ones before enduring unspeakable torture himself.

Unimaginable Cruelty

The atrocities detailed in these accounts defy comprehension, plunging the mind into a realm of horror too ghastly to contemplate fully. Each narrative serves as a testament to the depths of human depravity and the unfathomable suffering endured by the innocent. As these chilling testimonies emerge, the urgency to address the heinous crimes perpetrated against humanity grows ever more pressing.

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Evolution of the Bulgarian Economy

From Liberation to Soviet Influence

Introduction of Railroads and Trade Specialization (Second Half of 19th Century)

During the late 19th century, Bulgaria saw the construction of its first railroad between Russe and Varna. Urban centers like Gabrovo and Sliven specialized in manufacturing rifles, pistols, and iron tools, while the Rhodope area focused on producing aba cloth.

Economic Primitiveness under Ottoman Rule (Up to Liberation in 1878)

Until the Liberation in 1878, Bulgaria’s economy remained primitive by Western standards, being part of the Ottoman Empire’s economy. It had not been influenced by economic theorists like Adam Smith and David Ricardo. The inherited economy was in transition between a primitive (natural) economy, satisfying the producer’s needs, and a modern trade economy, meeting market demands.

Early Objectives of Post-Liberation Bulgarian Governments

The initial post-Liberation Bulgarian governments aimed for land redistribution, modernizing agricultural techniques, industrialization, and export growth. Progress toward these goals was hindered by the Balkan Wars and World War I. The economic strain of war and reparations after World War I brought Bulgaria close to ruin. Reforms during the Stambolisky government revitalized the economy, followed by stabilization under A. Liapchev’s government (1926-29). However, a totalitarian shift coincided with a new foreign policy orientation in 1934, with increased trade ties with Germany Guided Istanbul Tours.

Soviet Influence and Post-World War II Transformation

After World War II, Soviet occupation led to a radical transformation of the Bulgarian economy in line with the Bolshevik pattern. The land was collectivized, farms mechanized, and all sectors, including industry, trade, and banking, were nationalized.

Overview of Bulgarian Economic Development

This summary provides an overview of Bulgaria’s economic evolution, focusing on four main periods since Liberation. Subsequent discussions will delve into the major economic features of each period.

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Evolution of the Bulgarian Economy

From Liberation to Soviet Influence

Introduction of Railroads and Trade Specialization (Second Half of 19th Century)

During the late 19th century, Bulgaria saw the construction of its first railroad between Russe and Varna. Urban centers like Gabrovo and Sliven specialized in manufacturing rifles, pistols, and iron tools, while the Rhodope area focused on producing aba cloth.

Economic Primitiveness under Ottoman Rule (Up to Liberation in 1878)

Until the Liberation in 1878, Bulgaria’s economy remained primitive by Western standards, being part of the Ottoman Empire’s economy. It had not been influenced by economic theorists like Adam Smith and David Ricardo. The inherited economy was in transition between a primitive (natural) economy, satisfying the producer’s needs, and a modern trade economy, meeting market demands.

Early Objectives of Post-Liberation Bulgarian Governments

The initial post-Liberation Bulgarian governments aimed for land redistribution, modernizing agricultural techniques, industrialization, and export growth. Progress toward these goals was hindered by the Balkan Wars and World War I. The economic strain of war and reparations after World War I brought Bulgaria close to ruin. Reforms during the Stambolisky government revitalized the economy, followed by stabilization under A. Liapchev’s government (1926-29). However, a totalitarian shift coincided with a new foreign policy orientation in 1934, with increased trade ties with Germany Guided Istanbul Tours.

Soviet Influence and Post-World War II Transformation

After World War II, Soviet occupation led to a radical transformation of the Bulgarian economy in line with the Bolshevik pattern. The land was collectivized, farms mechanized, and all sectors, including industry, trade, and banking, were nationalized.

Overview of Bulgarian Economic Development

This summary provides an overview of Bulgaria’s economic evolution, focusing on four main periods since Liberation. Subsequent discussions will delve into the major economic features of each period.

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Bulgaria's Path to Democracy 1988-1990

Covert Opposition and the Emergence of the Union of the Democratic Forces (UDF)

Amidst the changing tides of 1988, Bulgaria’s Secret Services strategically worked to suppress any opposition movement that might naturally emerge. Unlike other Eastern European nations with pre-existing oppositions, such as Poland or Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria’s democratic movement, rallying under the slogan “Forty-five years are enough! Time is ours!” was led not by dissidents or anti-communists but by representatives of the totalitarian intellectual elite. The communists responded with a retort, asserting, “Time might be yours, but the money is ours!” This marked the swift transfer of public funds into the hands of newly affiliated businessmen loyal to the Party.

On December 7, 1989, sixteen opposition organizations, including former “non-formals” and reactivated pre-war parties, joined forces to establish the Union of the Democratic Forces (UDF). Driven by the “dissident” Zhelyo Zhelev, a Doctor of Philosophical Sciences, the UDF spearheaded mass rallies and public protests. These actions triggered a transformation in the leadership of existing public and political organizations, prompting most to undergo name changes. Even the Bulgarian Communist party felt the impact of democratization, rebranding itself as the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), with internal factions emerging. Following the “gentle revolution” model in Czechoslovakia, the concept of a “peaceful transition from the totalitarian system to democracy” gained traction City Tours Istanbul.

The Round Table Conference and Democratic Agreements

In January 1990, mirroring the Polish example, the “reformed” communist government initiated a dialogue with the opposition, mainly composed of ex-communists and former functionaries from totalitarian structures. This took the form of a conference known as the “round table.” Intense debates at the round table resulted in agreements on crucial issues such as democratizing state institutions, enacting a law on political parties, restoring private property, guaranteeing human rights, privatizing, and introducing a market economy. As a direct outcome, the Zhivkov-led State Council was dissolved, and Petar Mladenov assumed the role of Bulgaria’s First President. This marked a pivotal step in Bulgaria’s journey toward democracy, guided by the principles of dialogue and compromise.

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Perpetual Horrors Endured by Bulgarian Villagers

A Night of Tragedy in Tamboli

This article explores the distressing events that unfolded in Tamboli, shedding light on the tragic killing of a boy under mysterious circumstances. As we delve into the aftermath of this night, tales of violation, maltreatment, and arbitrary arrests surface, revealing the profound impact on the lives of Bulgarian villagers.

A Village in Desolation

From the ruins of Streletia, a village reduced to ashes, cries for justice emerge. Desperate villagers report an alarming reality — not a single day passes without Turkish assailants violating women. Streletia stands as a haunting symbol of the unchecked aggression that has left its people with nothing but the painful memories of their violated community.

A Daily Struggle Against Violence

In Mishka, the narrative continues with heartbreaking consistency. Two men approach, echoing the same story heard in Streletia — a relentless barrage of violence, especially targeting women. The recurring theme underscores the dire state of security, pushing Bulgarian villagers into a daily struggle against the specter of brutality.

A Glimpse into Arbitrary Arrests and Ransoms

Near Tatar Bazardjik, a group of men, bound together in pairs, becomes a poignant tableau of arbitrary arrests. Zaptiehs guard them, escorting them to an uncertain fate in Tatar Bazardjik. Investigations reveal the role of Ali Bey, an obscure authority figure, orchestrating the arrest of well-to-do individuals on dubious charges. Their imprisonment Bulgaria Tour, coupled with various forms of maltreatment, compels them to ransom their freedom at exorbitant rates — a stark illustration of the abuse of power in this tumultuous landscape.

Urgent Plea for Justice and Intervention

As the article concludes, a fervent plea for justice echoes through the testimonies of those who have endured unspeakable horrors. The call for intervention becomes urgent, urging local authorities, international bodies, and humanitarian organizations to address the escalating crisis. The pervasive culture of impunity must be dismantled to protect the vulnerable Bulgarian villagers from further atrocities.

Unmasking the Ongoing Tragedy

In a somber reflection, the article unmasks an ongoing tragedy, where Tamboli becomes emblematic of the larger plight faced by Bulgarian villagers. The narrative illuminates the shadows of fear, violence, and injustice that cloak these communities. It underscores the importance of global awareness and collaborative efforts to dismantle the oppressive structures allowing such atrocities to persist.

A Call to End the Nightmares of Tamboli

In a final call to action, the article urges the international community to rally against the darkness that haunts Tamboli and countless villages like it. It underscores the imperative to stand united against the violations and ensure that Tamboli’s night of tragedy becomes a catalyst for lasting change and justice.

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Diplomatic Chess

Unmasking Injustice in Otluk-kui

In the intricate dance of diplomacy and accountability, Mr. Schuyler’s strategic use of interpreters unveils a subtle yet powerful approach to addressing the grim realities of Otluk-kui. The encounter between Mr. Schuyler, the interpreters, and the Mudir exposes a diplomatic game played on the chessboard of justice.

The Tactical Interpreters Navigating Diplomacy’s Delicate Terrain

Amid the somber aftermath of the atrocities in Otluk-kui, Mr. Schuyler wielded the power of language through his two interpreters—a young Bulgarian with polished Turkish etiquette and a stern Greek named Antonio. Their roles extended beyond linguistic translation; they became instruments in Mr. Schuyler’s nuanced approach to addressing Turkish authorities. The choice of interpreter became a strategic decision, defining the tone of the conversation and influencing the reception of Mr. Schuyler’s messages.

The young Bulgarian, proficient in the art of polite discourse, was Mr. Schuyler’s envoy for amicable exchanges and diplomatic niceties. When commendations or compliments were to be conveyed to Turkish authorities, this interpreter gracefully presented Mr. Schuyler’s words. On the flip side, the Greek interpreter, Antonio, entered the stage when the message was less congenial. His harsh and emphatic Turkish delivery served as the tool for communicating displeasure or demanding accountability.

The Diplomatic Gambit Exposing Injustice Through Indirect Inquiry

The chessboard of diplomacy saw a strategic move when Antonio confronted the Mudir about the deplorable state of the roads in Otluk-kui. This indirect approach, rather than a direct accusation, compelled the Mudir to grapple with the pressing issue at hand. Antonio’s severe tone and the Consul Bashi’s apparent displeasure created an atmosphere of accountability Travel Bulgaria, prompting the Mudir to respond under the weight of scrutiny.

The Mudir’s defense, claiming a relatively short tenure, showcased the delicate balance of power dynamics. The chess game unfolded as Mr. Schuyler, through Antonio, continued to weave a narrative of concern. The Consul Bashi’s keen observation of the misery among the people became a focal point, challenging the Mudir to address the humanitarian crisis under his watch.

This tactical use of interpreters transformed the diplomatic exchange into a subtle yet impactful probe into the Mudir’s responsibility. By choosing the right linguistic tone, Mr. Schuyler delicately exposed the injustices, leaving the Mudir on uncertain ground and paving the way for a broader inquiry into the town’s plight.

As the diplomatic chess match continues, the role of interpreters becomes increasingly pivotal, revealing the nuanced strategies employed to confront and unmask the grim realities of Otluk-kui.

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Diplomatic Chess

Unmasking Injustice in Otluk-kui

In the intricate dance of diplomacy and accountability, Mr. Schuyler’s strategic use of interpreters unveils a subtle yet powerful approach to addressing the grim realities of Otluk-kui. The encounter between Mr. Schuyler, the interpreters, and the Mudir exposes a diplomatic game played on the chessboard of justice.

The Tactical Interpreters Navigating Diplomacy’s Delicate Terrain

Amid the somber aftermath of the atrocities in Otluk-kui, Mr. Schuyler wielded the power of language through his two interpreters—a young Bulgarian with polished Turkish etiquette and a stern Greek named Antonio. Their roles extended beyond linguistic translation; they became instruments in Mr. Schuyler’s nuanced approach to addressing Turkish authorities. The choice of interpreter became a strategic decision, defining the tone of the conversation and influencing the reception of Mr. Schuyler’s messages.

The young Bulgarian, proficient in the art of polite discourse, was Mr. Schuyler’s envoy for amicable exchanges and diplomatic niceties. When commendations or compliments were to be conveyed to Turkish authorities, this interpreter gracefully presented Mr. Schuyler’s words. On the flip side, the Greek interpreter, Antonio, entered the stage when the message was less congenial. His harsh and emphatic Turkish delivery served as the tool for communicating displeasure or demanding accountability.

The Diplomatic Gambit Exposing Injustice Through Indirect Inquiry

The chessboard of diplomacy saw a strategic move when Antonio confronted the Mudir about the deplorable state of the roads in Otluk-kui. This indirect approach, rather than a direct accusation, compelled the Mudir to grapple with the pressing issue at hand. Antonio’s severe tone and the Consul Bashi’s apparent displeasure created an atmosphere of accountability Travel Bulgaria, prompting the Mudir to respond under the weight of scrutiny.

The Mudir’s defense, claiming a relatively short tenure, showcased the delicate balance of power dynamics. The chess game unfolded as Mr. Schuyler, through Antonio, continued to weave a narrative of concern. The Consul Bashi’s keen observation of the misery among the people became a focal point, challenging the Mudir to address the humanitarian crisis under his watch.

This tactical use of interpreters transformed the diplomatic exchange into a subtle yet impactful probe into the Mudir’s responsibility. By choosing the right linguistic tone, Mr. Schuyler delicately exposed the injustices, leaving the Mudir on uncertain ground and paving the way for a broader inquiry into the town’s plight.

As the diplomatic chess match continues, the role of interpreters becomes increasingly pivotal, revealing the nuanced strategies employed to confront and unmask the grim realities of Otluk-kui.

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Mill-wheels are silent

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

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

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

The hillsides

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

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

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Violated in the presence of her children

Mothers were outraged in the presence of their daughters ; young girls in the presence of their mothers, of their sisters and brothers. One woman told us, wringing her hands and crying, that she and her daughter, a girl of fifteen, had been violated in the same room, another that she was violated in the presence of her children.

A girl of eighteen avowed, shuddering and bowing her facp in her hands, that she had been outraged by ten soldiers. A woman, who came to us on crutches with a bullet still in her ankle, said she had been violated by three soldiers while lying wounded on the ground groaning in agony. Young, delicate, fragile little creatures, ten and twelve years old, were treated in the same brutal manner Turkey Sightseeing.

A woman told us that her daughter, a tender, delicate little thing of twelve, had been seized and outraged by a Bashi-Bazouk, although she had offered all the money she had in the world—although she offered herself—if he would spare the child. Another told us of a poor little thing of ten violated in her presence, with a number of other girls. Still another told us how a dozen young girls, twelve or fifteen years old, had taken refuge in her house, hoping to escape detection; how they had been discovered ; how two of them had been outraged, and killed, because they had resisted, and how the others then submitted to their fate, white, shivering, their teeth chattering with fright.

And yet Sir Henry Elliot and Mr. Disraeli will keep prating to us about exaggeration, forsooth ! The crimes that were committed here are beyond the reach of exaggeration. There were stories related to us that are maddening in their atrocity, that cause the heart to swell in a burst of impotent rage that can only find vent in pitying, useless tears.

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Urged on by Austro Hungary

Urged on by Austro-Hungary, King Milan of Serbia declared war on Bulgaria, on the pretext that the political equilibrium of the Balkan Peninsula had been upset. The authorities in Athens also feared that it would be easier for Bulgaria, in its extended and powerful version, to have its claims on Macedonia – contested by all three states – honored. In November 1885 the Serbian troops violated the Bulgarian western border. But a quick and unexpected turn in the war followed and provided King Milan with a total defeat. As the Bulgarian forces put to flight the Serbian army and headed north-west on Serbian territory Vienna sent its message: either the Bulgarians should stop and go back or they would be at war with Austro-Hungary as well. So in February 1886 the Treaty of Bucharest recognized the unification of the two Bulgarian states.

But Emperor Alexander III refused to support the Unification. To Battenberg he was the worst enemy of Bulgaria. Those who shared the Prince’s sentiments – and came to be known as “Russophobes”- advised that the Bulgarian foreign policy should be orientated towards the Western states. The others, unconditional friends of the liberator Russia, with whom Bulgaria had a common religion Tours Bulgaria, formed the powerful and multitudinous trend of the “Russophiles”.

Strong political tension

The struggle between the two extreme trends quickly created a strong political tension. In the night of August 8lh and in the small hours of August 9lh 1886 a group of pro-Russian officers staged another coup d’etat, dethroned the Prince and sent him to Russia under escort. The reaction of the Russian emperor was swift and in a few days Alexander I was back on the throne but at the end of August he was compelled to abdicate. A three-member Council of Regents was elected, and Stambolov, as the leading figure, did his best so that the Grand National Assembly to reject the new Russian candidate for the Bulgarian throne, Prince Mingreli of Georgia. That put an end to the Russian influence and soon a Bulgarian delegation set off for the European capital cities in search of a new Prince…

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Bishops and the Patriarch’s throne

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

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

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

MIXAHA NIKHTHN

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

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

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SIGHTS IN THE OLD TOWN

SIGHTS IN THE OLD TOWN

1. The Fortress Complex on Nebet Tepe

2. Antique – Revival Period Ensemble on Vitosha Sreet.

3. Antique Theatre

4. Antique Stadium

5. Hisar Gate Architectural Ensemble

6. Jumaya Mosque

7. Mevlevi Hane (Puldin Restaurant)

8. St. Marina Metropolitan Church

9. Holy Virgin Cathedral

10. SS. Constantine and Helena Church

11. Architectural Ensemble on Tsanko Lavrenov Street

12. Architectural Ensemble on Dr. Chomakov Street

13. Architectural Ensemble on Kiril Nektariev Street

14. Haji Panayot Lampsha House (Balabanov house)

15. Stepan Hindliyan House

16. Nikola Nedkovich House

17. History Museum. ‘Bulgarian Revival Period Exhibition’. (Dimiter Georgiadi House}

18. ‘Book-printing in Bulgaria’ Exhibition (‘Hristo G. Danov Museum-house}

19. Ethnographical Museum (Argir Kuyumjioghlu House}

20. ‘Alphonse de Lamartine’ Museum-collection (Georgi Mavridi House)

21. ‘Hippocrates’ Pharmacy (Dr. Sotir Antoniadi)

22. City Art Gallery (Girls’ School)

23. City Art Gallery Icon Collection

24. ‘Tsanko Lavrenov’ Permanent Exhibition (Kirkor Mesrobovich House)

25. ‘Zlatyu Boyadjiev’ Permanent Exhibition (Dr. Stoyan Chomakov House)

26. ‘Georgi Bojilov-Slona’ Permanent Exhibition (Skobeleva House)

27. Danchov House

28. The Yellow School (First Bulgarian School)

NATIONALINSTITUTEOF ARCHAEOLOGY WITH MUSEUM-SOFIA AUGUST 24TH – SEPTEMBER 30TH 2011

The exhibition is organized by the National Institute of Archaeology with Museum – Bulgarian Academy of Sciences with the kind contribution of National Museum of History bulgaria private tours – Sofia Regional Museum of History – Haskovo Regional Museum of History – Kardzhali Regional Museum of History – Stara Zagora Regional Museum of History – Varna Regional Museum of History – Veliko Tarnovo Museum of Archaeology — Veliki Preslav Old Nessebar Museum Museum of History – Chirpan Museum of History – Pomorie

The exhibition has been accomplished by Margarita Vaklinova, Bissera Tomova, Yordan Gatev, Snezhana Goryanova, Katya Melamed, and the Laboratory for analyses, concervation and restoration of NIAM – Sevdalina Neykova, Petya Penkova, Plamen Bonev, Maria Tasseva

Designer Elena Boyadzhieva, National Museum of History

The annotations in the Catalogue are work of

A. M. – Alexander Minchev

B. T. – Bissera Tomova

C. T. – Constantine Totev

D. K. – Daniela Kodzhemanova

D. Y. – Dimitar Yankov

E. B. – Elka Bakalova G. G. – George Gerov

K. M. – Katya Melamed

L. D. – P. – Lyudmila Doncheva – Petkova

M. D. – Metodi Daskalov M. I. – Mariela Inkova

M. V. – Margarita Vaklinova P. D. – Peter Dimitrov S. G. – Snezhana Goryanova

S. S. – Stanislav Stanilov

T. M. – Todor Marvakov T. T. – Totyu Totev

Y. G. – Yordan Gatev Y. B. – Yuliana Boycheva

Photographer Krassimir Georgiev Translation Katya Melamed