#serbian monarchy

[furordinaricvs]

Serbian Hussar regiment in Russian empire (1723-1783).

Due to Rakoczi's war of independence (1703-1711), position of Serbian militiamen in Militargrenze (Military Frontier) of the Habsburg monarchy was endangered. In 1704, first Serb attempts were made to offer their services to Russian empire in their struggle against Ottomans. Before Russian-Turkish war of (1710-1711) began, Russian emperor Peter the Great invited Serbian militiamen to join Russian army. During this period small group of Serbs led by Jovan Albanez emigrated to Russia. Albanez distinguished himself during Pruth river campaign, so Peter the Great decided to expand the unit and create entire Serb Regiment.

In 1723, Peter sent Albanez to recruit more people for the regiment. Invitation letter carried by Jovan Albanez was personally signed by Peter the Great on 23rd of October 1723. Evey militiamen who emigrated to Russian empire would be granted arable land and additional privileges. Recruitment campaign of Albanez was quite successful.

On 1724, Serb Command was placed under command of Kiev garrison. Large scale of recruitment was opposed by Austria so to reach aimed number of the regiment some cossacks were also transferred to it. Serbian Hussar regiment served as a model for establishment of of few additional regiments such as Hungarian, Georgian and Moldovan.

During its existence Serb Regiment saw action during securing Ukrainian front, southern Persia and later in War of Polish succession, as well as in Russo-Swedish war of 1741-1743).

[arthurdrakoni]

Flag of the Pueblo Sultanate

This is the flag of the Pueblo Sultanate. It comes from a world where the Ottoman Empire established colonies in the New World. The Ottomans began in the Caribbean, and soon went on to conquer Mexico. Eventually, the Ottomans made their way to the American Southwest, and subjugated the Pueblo peoples. Life was harsh for the Pueblo people under Ottoman colonialism. Pueblo people were forced to toil away in silver mines to feed the Ottomans’ hunger for precious metals. Several madrasas were established with the intent to convert the Pueblo peoples to Islam. In theory, the madrasas would provide aid, education, and social services to the Pueblo people. In practice, however, the imams often subjected their charges to horrific abuse. Despite this, Islam did manage to spread among the Pueblo peoples. The Pueblo peoples begged for a savior. But where could he be? 

The Pueblo people received their answer in the form of a charismatic preacher named Po’Pay. Despite the similar name, he is a separate individual from the Po’Pay of our world. This Po’Pay preached the highly syncretic religion that combined indigenous Pueblo beliefs with Islamic liberation theology. This was in sharp contrast to the Islam of the Ottomans, which frowned upon syncretism, and suppressed indigenous beliefs. Po’Pay teachings began to spread, and soon Po’Pay a revolt against the Ottomans. Though the fight was hard, at last the Pueblo peoples were free from the Ottoman yoke. The Pueblo peoples began to think of themselves not as a collection of disparate tribes, but as a united people sharing in a common destiny. 

 Po’Pay organized the tribes into a sultanate, with himself as the first sultan. However, the sultan would not rule alone. An assembly of tribes was created. Representatives of each tribe could voice the opinions and concerns of the tribe to the assembly. Thus, the Pueblo Sultanate became the first representative monarchy in the New World. The Pueblo Sultanate stretches over much of what would be he American Southwest.   The Pueblo Sultanate is famous for begin very tolerant, open-minded, and accepting of peoples with different beliefs. Most citizens practice Pueblo Islam, but don’t try to push it on other people. Most women do not veil, and most Pueblo citizen wear traditional indigenous-style clothing. to Po’Pay developed a written script based upon Arabic, and the Pueblo Sultanate is home to several libraries and other centers of learning. In fact, the Great Pueblo Library is world renown for its expansive collection of books. Qurans are written in the Pueblo script, and the call to prayer to announced in the various Pueblo languages. The Pueblo Sultanate is also quite famous for its cooking. Pueblo cuisine combines cooking techniques from the Eastern Mediterranean with spices and ingredients of the American Southwest. The Pueblo Sultanate has a noticeable minority of Greeks, Serbians, Bulgarians, and Amazighs. They are mostly descended from slaves brought over during the days of Ottoman colonialism.  

Also, the Pueblo Sultanate isn’t actually called the Pueblo Sultanate in-universe, but I couldn’t think of a better name.  The flag includes the sun symbol of the Zia people, and the crescent moon of Islam. This is a reference to the Sultanate’s mixed indigenous and Islamic heritage. The blue band represents turquoise, an important stone to many Pueblo peoples. The green band represents prosperity, and green is a color associated with Islam. The yellow band is there because it goes well with everything else. 

Link to the original flag on my blog: https://drakoniandgriffalco.blogspot.com/2022/06/flag-of-pueblo-sultanate.html?m=1

[sprites4ever]

Quick German History Lesson

Over a thousand years ago, the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream. He dreamt of a statue of clay, iron, silver and gold. Clueless as to the meaning of this dream, he asked his Jewish dream interpreter David, who told him that the four materials represented the four world empires, his being the golden one. If all empires were to fall, so would the world.

One of those four empires, the Roman one, outlasted all others and when it fell, people were scared. Believing the story about Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, they thought that the Roman empire was the last. So, the Christian church took advantage, granting itself divine right over Western Europe by creating an alliance of spiritual rulers in many Western European kingdoms, called the Holy Roman Empire, in order to present itself as continuing the Roman empire.

Later, when a German was made Emperor by the church, it was renamed to Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation.

When the church lost power in the early nineteenth century, the Holy Roman Empire was downgraded to the Rhine Alliance, a spiritual alliance of German kingdoms on the Rhine river.

After the Napoleonic wars, after Napoleon had breezed through taking over German kingdoms and whose soldiers were then stopped by the russian winter (Tsar Alexander I claimed the effort for himself, when in reality, the French quite simply froze), all European monarchs hasted to restore the old, pre-Napoleonic order. Due to their defeat by Napoleon’s patriotic soldiers, Germans took a strong liking to democratic and nationalist movements, but at the Vienna Congress, where said monarchs negotiated on how to restore the old order and keep down democracy, the Germans were appeased, as their Rhine Alliance was upgraded into the meaningless German Alliance, instead of being recognized as a nation.

Frustrated, Germany declared itself an empire in 1871.

At the turn of the 20th century, European monarchies were dying. Their form of leadership just could not satisfy their citizens anymore, who wanted to reap the fruits of their slavish factory work.

Fearing for their power, the old monarchs upped colonialism with the horrific scramble for Africa, in order to get as much land and resources as possible, to try and stay ahead of the other monarchies.

This fear of internal revolution made the monarchs more outwardly aggressive, building up their armies and making complex alliances.

One way or another, if through Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip's assassination of Austro-Hungarian Crown Prince Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, or through something else, all those dying and industrialized monarchies were bound to have a war.

In a twist of cruel irony, the monarch's fear of their demise caused their demise, as the destruction brought upon by their war was the final nail in the coffin of European monarchy.

Having been made to pay massive reparations, the newly formed democratic Weimar Republic of Germany was struck particularly hard.

Using the rise in popularity of fascism and antisemitism at the time, as well as the terrible economy of the Weimar Republic, Austrian madman Adolf Hitler had little difficulty blaming the situation in Germany on Jews and on democracy, turning Germany into the military dictatorship that started WWII and committed the Holocaust.

After the war's end and Hitler's suicide, Germany was occupied by the Western allies and the Soviet Union. The Western allies realized that Germany's loss of WWI had facilitated Hitler's rise to power, deciding to rebuild and denazify their occupation zone out of their pockets, then letting it have a democratic government, the Federal Republic of Germany. Meanwhile, the Soviets transformed their occupation zone into another Soviet Republic, the German Democratic Republic.

As the Soviet Union collapsed, the two Germanys were reunited and so, we arrive at the present day.

[brookston]

Holidays 1.5

Holidays

American Divorce Day

Apple Howling Day

Carnival begins (Old Bohemia)

Carnaval Blancos Negros, Day 2: The Day of the Blacks (Colombia)

Dia de la Toma (Spain)

Eve of Wonder

Fair Deal Day

Fathers' Day (Оци; Serbia)

501st Legion Day (UK)

Flint Day (French Republic)

FM Radio Day

George Washington Carver Day

Get on the Computer Day

International Declutter Day

International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (Harbin, China)

Joma Shinji (Kamakura, Japan)

Kappa Alpha Psi Day

Little Cold begins (Chinese Farmer’s Calendar)

Monopoly Game Day

Mr. Ed Day

National Bird Day

National Day of Dialogue

National Don’t Talk Day

National Ellen Day

National Screenwriters Day

National Second-Hand Wardrobe Day

Nellie Ross Day (Wyoming)

Night of the Magic Camel (Southern Syria)

Red Hackle Anniversary Day of the Black Watch

Review Your Wrestling Holds Day

Right of Self Determination Day (Pakistan)

Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day (Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney; Australia)

Tucindan (Serbia, Montenegro)

Turn Up the Heat Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Can Opener Day

Granny Smith Day

National Keto Day

National Whipped Cream Day

Sausage Day (UK)

Strawberry Day (Ichigo No Hi; Japan)

Take the Cake Day

Whipped Cream Day

1st Friday in January

Gals Night Out [1st Friday]

Thermopolis Day (Wyoming) [1st Friday]

Independence & Related Days

Ajdinland (Declared; 2022) [unrecognized]

Monarchy of Craztonia (Declared; 2022) [unrecognized]

Pitchfork Union (Declared; 2016) [unrecognized]

Seirlandia (Declared; 2019) [unrecognized]

Feast Days

Avian Day (Pagan)

Befana (Ancient Roman Goddess)

Burning of the Evergreen (Pagan)

Charles of Mount Argus (Christian)

The Eve of Epiphany (Christian; Transition Between Christmas & Carnival Season)

Feast of Poseidon (Ancient Greece)

Festival of Kore (Greek Goddess of Good Fortune & Zeal)

Festival of Lares Compitales (Ancient Rome)

Festival of Pyrotechnics

Gerlac of Valkenberg (Christian; Saint)

Hayao Miyazaki (Jayism)

Hoots the Owl (Muppetism)

International Sarcasm Day (Pastafarian)

John Neumann (Catholic Church)

Ludwig II Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Lycurgus (Positivist; Saint)

Mungday (aka Hung Mung’s Day; Discordian)

Nicolas de Staël (Artology)

Noche De Reyes (Three Wise Men; Mexico)

Nones of January (Ancient Rome)

Old Christmas Eve

Simeon Stylites (Latin Church)

Telesphorus, Pope (Christian; Saint)

Trettondagsafton (Epiphany Eve; Sweden)

Tucindan (Old Serbian Pagan Folk Festival)

Twelfth Day of Christmas

Twelfth Night

Twelve Holy Days #11 (Aquarius, the lower limbs; Esoteric Christianity)

Twelvetide, Day #12 (a.k.a. the Twelve Days of Christmas or Christmastide) [until 1.5]

Ullr Festival (Norse)

Umberto Eco (Jayism)

Verbal Abuse Day (Pastafarian)

The Voyage of Hathor to See Her Seven Sisters (Ancient Egypt)

Yves Tanguy (Artology)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Butsumetsu (仏滅 Japan) [Unlucky all day.]

Lucky Day (Philippines) [4 of 71]

Perilous Day (13th Century England) [4 of 32]

Prime Number Day: 5 [3 of 72]

Very Unlucky Day (Grafton’s Manual of 1565) [4 of 60]

Premieres

All My Children (TV Soap Opera; 1970)

Any Rags? (Betty Boop Cartoon; 1932)

Armed Forces, by Elvis Costello (Album; 1979)

Buddy the Gob (WB LT Cartoon; 1934)

Cavalcade (Film; 1933)

Chica Chica Boom Chic, by Carmen Miranda (Song; 1941)

Come Dance with Me!, by Frank Sinatra (Album; 1959)

The Dark Eidolon and Other Fantasies, by Clark Ashton Smith (Short Stories; 1935)

Desire, by Bob Dylan (Album; 1976)

Dog, Cat and Canary (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1945)

The Dud Avocado, by Elaine Dundy (Novel; 1958)

Giasone, by Francesco Cavalli (Opera; 1649)

Greetings From Asbury Park, by Bruce Springsteen (Album; 1973)

Happily N’Ever After (Animated Film; 2007)

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (UK TV Series; 1981)

In the American Grain, by William Carlos Williams (History Book; 1925)

Lion Down (Disney Cartoon; 1951)

Lyrical Ballads, by William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge (Book of Poetry; 1798)

Maze Craze (Atari 2600 Video Game; 1980)

Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman (TV Series; 1976)

Nixon (Film; 1996)

The Shannara Chronicles (TV Series; 2016)

Stop! In The Name Of Love, recorded by The Supremes (Song; 1965)

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (Novel; 1886)

The Swiss Summer, by Stella Gibbons (Novel; 1951)

Three Little Bops (WB LT Cartoon; 1957)

Tiger Trouble (Disney Cartoon; 1945)

The Tortoise and the Hare (Disney SS Cartoon; 1935)

Waiting for Godot, by Samuel Beckett (Play; 1953)

What’s Sweepin’ (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1953)

Who’s Kitten Who? (WB LT Cartoon; 1952)

The Wiz (Broadway Musical; 1975)

Today’s Name Days

Emilia, Johann (Austria)

Emilijana, Gaudencije, Miljenko, Radoslavl (Croatia)

Dalimil (Czech Republic)

Simeon (Denmark)

Lea, Leana, Liia (Estonia)

Lea, Leea (Finland)

Édouard (France)

Emilia, Johann (Germany)

Syglitiki, Theoni, Theopemptos (Greece)

Simon (Hungary)

Amelia (Italy)

Sīmanis, Zintis (Latvia)

Gaudentas, Telesforas, Vytautas, Vytautė (Lithuania)

Hanna, Hanne (Norway)

Edward, Emilian, Emiliusz, Hanna, Symeon, Szymon, Telesfor, Włościbor (Poland)

Sinclitichia, Teona, Teotempt (Romania)

Andrea (Slovakia)

Amelia, Emiliana, Juan, Simeón, Telesforo (Spain)

Hanna, Hannele (Sweden)

Apollinaria, Teon (Ukraine)

Ladarius, Ladd, Laird, Lamont, Lane, Tania, Tanya, Tatiana, Tatyana, Tawni, Tawnya, Tia, Tiana, Tianna, Tonya (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 5 of 2024; 361 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 5 of week 1 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Beth (Birch) [Day 11 of 28]

Chinese: Month 12 (Jia-Zi), Day 24 (Wu-Chen)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 24 Teveth 5784

Islamic: 23 Jumada II 1445

J Cal: 5 White; Fryday [5 of 30]

Julian: 23 December 2023

Moon: 35%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 5 Moses (1st Month) [Lycurgus]

Runic Half Month: Eihwaz or Eoh (Yew Tree) [Day 11 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 16 of 89)

Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 15 of 31)

[krasivaa]

Welcome!

Hi there! My name is Divna, I am Serbian 🇷🇸 and Orthodox ☦️ girl interested and loving royals. I like sharing my knowledge about history and always to learn more!

my side blog is: @sensibilityoversense

This one is dedicated to my love for history; my favorite dynasty is The House of Romanov, but you also can find:

History of other monarchies

Ancient cultures

Orthodox Christianity stuff

History of Yugoslavia/Serbia

Letters, diaries, castles, palaces and other things royals own

And more!

I love making edits, parallels and wallpapers, as well as writing fan fictions!

Everyone is welcome here, we respect diversity and share good vibes and understanding. (:

My fan fiction about Nicholas and Alexandra on AO3:

Part 1 - here

Part 2 - here

Enjoy!!!

[princesscatherinemiddleton]

Going off your predictions, here’s my 2024 Royal Fandom Bingo Card:

(sorry can’t spell names correctly and did this quickly)

Bea announces second pregnancy 

Raya announces pregnancy

Other jordanian princess announces pregnancy 

Death in the Spanish royal family 

Norwegian king dies / hakaan becomes king 

Meghan announces her instagram 

Meghan announces a fashion collab 

Meghan on a magazine cover 

Meghan does a small role or guest stars in a tv show / donates money(?) 

Meghan hints at a book and more royal drama in interview 

Meghan drops an interview on Kate’s birthday 

Harry loses ravec case 

Harry loses other gov case relating to security 

Harry flies to UK to visit friends / lick wounds 

Rumors of Sussex split pop up again 

Sofia announces pregnancy 

Prince Sebastian announces engagement 

Grosvenor wedding drama 

Ppow go on big tour to Australia 

Kate gets garter and Charles order 

Kate wears girls tiara 

George will attend Eton announcement 

Peter announces engagement 

Zara announces pregnancy 

Charlotte announces a third pregnancy 

Beatrice B announces another pregnancy 

Tatiana announces another pregnancy 

More drama out of Jordanian royal family 

Martha Louis and Derek cover a European vogue with a splashy wedding photo 

Pretender to the Serbian throne Alexander unsuccessfully tries to lobby government to reinstate the monarchy, again 

THIS IS SO MUCH FUN!! I'm going to see which ones I agree with and which I don't:

Bea announces second pregnancy - agree Raya announces pregnancy - agree Other jordanian princess announces pregnancy - disagree Death in the Spanish royal family - disagree Norwegian king dies / hakaan becomes king - agree Meghan announces her instagram - disagree Meghan announces a fashion collab - disagree Meghan on a magazine cover - agree Meghan does a small role or guest stars in a tv show / donates money - agree Meghan hints at a book and more royal drama in interview - disagree Meghan drops an interview on Kate’s birthday - disagree Harry loses ravec case - agree Harry loses other gov case relating to security - agree Harry flies to UK to visit friends - disagree Rumors of Sussex split pop up again - agree (but only because rumours are continuous, I don't think they'll split and I don't want them to) Sofia announces pregnancy - agree Prince Sebastian announces engagement - disagree Grosvenor wedding drama - agree Ppow go on big tour to Australia - disagree Kate gets garter and Charles order - disagree (but she will get the family order) Kate wears girls tiara - disagree George will attend Eton announcement - disagree Peter announces engagement - disagree Zara announces pregnancy - disagree  Charlotte announces a third pregnancy - disagree Beatrice B announces another pregnancy - disagree Tatiana announces another pregnancy - disagree More drama out of Jordanian royal family - disagree Martha Louis and Derek cover a European vogue with a splashy wedding photo - agree Pretender to the Serbian throne Alexander unsuccessfully tries to lobby government to reinstate the monarchy, again - agree

[wyrmfedgrave]

Pics: HPL, the Great Old Writer.

Intro: Notes for Lovecraft's 1st issue of The Conservative.

Specifically, on the article "The Crime of Crimes."

Notes:

1. Proofreading is the art of reviewing unpublished works for mistakes & fixing them.

2. Diction is the word selection writers use to create feelings in readers' heads.

Pic: Map of the enemies in WW1. The green ones are the 'good' guys.

3. The European War & The Great War were both names for World War One.

It earned these names due to the global scale of the fighting - which occurred in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Pacific Ocean & the Middle East.

WW1 also had the 5th largest death toll in history - from 15 to 30 million victims.

4. Socialists were actually against the war.

As it had workers killing each other for their bosses' interests.

But, after war was declared, Socialists backed their countries & supported the war.

5. The aristocracy are, in some places, the highest social class - holding titles & offices thru hereditary 'rights.'

Pic: Map of Serbia today.

6. Serbia, before WW1, was being threatened by the Austria/Hungarian Empire.

Worse, the Serbians were exhausted - they had just fought 2 Balkan wars!

They were about to give Austrian trains a route to the Mediterranean Ocean, when the Austrian Archduke was assassinated - in Sarajevo, Serbia!!

7. Austria was excluded from German affairs in 1866, when the end of the German Confederation occurred.

To retain its status, Austria negotiated with Hungary.

They agreed that their "foreign affairs & defense" were the same for both empires.

So, the Dual Monarchy (or, Hapsburg Monarchy) was born.

8. Belgian neutrality existed since The Treaty of London in 1839.

But, Germany invaded Belgium in 1914, to avoid fortifications along the French-German border.

This pulled Great Britain into WW1 as they were the one's charged with protecting Belgium's neutrality.

9. Anthropology studies what makes us human.

It's 4 branches are archaeological, biological, cultural & linguistic studies.

Pic: Huxley &, by mistake, Mongolia...

10. Aldous Huxley was a British writer, philosopher & critic.

His "Brave New World" is a future dystopia, whose citizens are bio- engineered into a social hierarchy based on intelligence.

The story foretells many different advances used, in the novel, to keep citizens in a peaceful state.

John, an ostracized & illicit 'savage', becomes a huge star in London.

But, John sees this 'civilization' as being "an empty society."

Jaded, he retires to an abandoned lighthouse to practice a frugal solitary lifestyle.

Unfortunately, it actually leads to his death...

John is an intensely moral person, living to a Shakespearean code but, he's also a bit naive.

Yet, he finally sees that technology & consumerism are poor substitutes for freedom, dignity & integrity.

11. Ethnology is the study of people's characteristics, their variety & the relationships between them.

12. Aryan is a Nazi concept about white, non-Jewish folk (descended from Nordic nations) as being a superior racial group.

Pics: The old Aryan idea (starting South of the Caucasian Mts.) that Lovecraft knew.

And, the more modern version - North of the Caucasians...

But, in actuality, Aryan described people who spoke the Proto-Indo- European languages.

The Indo-Europeans were their 'descendants'...

Pic: Another version of the spread of Aryan languages.

13. The Medieval Era or Middle Ages lasted from the fall of Rome in 476 til the start of the Renaissance in the 1400s.

The Early Middle Ages (from 476 til 900s AD) were known as the Dark Ages - due to a decrease in culture & science.

That's some 400 years of rebuilding & moving on to feudalism...

14. No excuse & no concrete evidence. Just a lot of hot air, racist ideas & dramatic posturing.

15. "No branch of civilization is not of his (white men) making."

1st, you can't prove a double negative - they cancel each other out.

And, 2nd of all, civilization was made up by the ancient Egyptians & almost as old Sumerians (now, modern Iraqi Arabs).

So, Howard's lying right off of the bat...

The first laws were not made by white men.

Nor were the 1st cities made by Aryans.

The wheel was not invented by whitey.

Need we go on?

Next: More Notes!!

[bike42]

Thursday, May 2 2024

Montenegro “Black Mountain”

I got out on the top deck for a yoga session at 6:30am, as we were just entering Kotor Bay for the 90 minute cruise through the fiord-like inlet to the village of Kotor. The bay was dotted with coastal fortified villages, all with churches, waterfront promenades and beaches. Kotor is a village at the end of the inlet, nestled inside steep limestone cliffs at Mt. Lovcen. Apparently, the whole Bay of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The name, Kotor, translates to “squeezed between the mountains and sea.”

We transferred by tender from the boat to the harbor, where we were met by our guide, Vasco, for the “Taste of Montenegro” tour. We walked just a few blocks, where we boarded a small bus that quickly led us out of town into the mountainside overlooking the Bay. That gave us plenty of time for Vasco to give us a quick history lesson.

The history was long and complicated, starting in 500 BC. For hundreds of years, land changed hands after various invasions: Romans, Greek, Austria-Hungarian, Turkish and Venetians. Throughout history, the boundaries blurred between what is now Montenegro and their neighbors (Albania to the south, Serbia to the east, Croatia to the north

10th century - Duklja (medieval South Slavic state)

1356 - Zeta (medieval Serbian state)

1516 - Prince-Bishopric of Montenegro 

1878 - Treaty of Berlin, kicked the Ottomans out and officially gave the Montenegrins independence

1910 - Kingdom of Montenegro, monarchy in southeastern Europe during the tumultuous time leading up to WWI.

1918 - Kingdom of Yugoslavia (translated means land of the south Slavs), included territory around Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia

1945 - Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, lasted until 1992 when it was broken up as a consequence of the Yugoslav Wars. It was a one-party socialist state and federation led by the league of Communists.

1992 - Serbia and Montenegro

2006 - Independence referendum 

2017 - joined NATO (Adriatic Charter).

Vasco said the 1990s were terrible times for the country. They’re not yet a member of the EU, but working towards that. Last year they started using the Euro, and their economy is a bit unstable. He said without being a NATO member, he thinks they’d be in a state similar to Ukraine right now.

A few more facts:

624,000 people

7th smallest country in Europe (13,812 square kilometers)

Surrounded by Croatia, Albania, Serbia and Bosnia.

Only industry is tourism and unemployment is high, yet, many foreign workers come to work in the service industry.

They speak Montenegrin, but Vosco said each of the former Yugoslavian countries have their own language, however it’s the same language with a different name and some regional dialect. Interesting that some of the names are Spanish / Italian and he said that’s because sailers would stop here and the terms they used were incorporated into the language - including the name of the country. It was officially Crna Gors, but became Montenegro (Black Mountain).

Our drive took us to the little village of Tici, where we were greeted by Ilija Moric, a university professor and President of the Montenegro Olive Oil Producers Association. With his two brothers, he is the eighth generation of owners of this Olive Tree farm, in his family for nearly 300 years. He and his two donkeys greeted us with Grapa and donuts - the donkeys wanted the leftover donuts.

Their farm has 1000 trees, and produces about 3 liters per tree, considered a small organic farm (he joked it’s a large garden). In commercial production, the get about 6 liters per tree. We learned olive oil isn’t healthy because of the oil, it’s healthy because of the nutrients. The nutrients come from the pit, which is smashed with the olive. Fresh olive oil will be cloudy for 2 months, so it is left to settle before the oil is bottled. He debunked a few myths (it’s all Cold Processed, and it’s all First Press).

We traveled a few more minutes by bus to an old structure where the old processing equipment was still located (similar to what we’d seen in Sorrento a few days ago). There we had a sampling of: two local cheeses, eggs from their chickens, tomatoes, two homemade breads, battered zucchini, prosciutto, local wines, a yummy apple torte and Turkish coffee. It was a beautiful setting and we felt immersed in Montenegrin history and culture. I wondered what this family’s experience was like and how they’d been impacted by the wars. Had they just survived off the land and kept producing their olive oil and tending their trees and garden? Wish I’d asked.

During our drive Vasco talked about how the Infrastructure in the country is a mess, and we saw first hand that the roads are narrow, steep and crumbling. There were occasions where we’d meet a bus or truck, and one would have to reverse, or both pull their mirrors in and squeeze past. There is no public water or sewer system, must each have a well and drain field. The power grid is down frequently. Vasco said winters are still especially rough, with power out and roads inaccessible.

We drove back to Kotor a different route. Vasco pointed out major developments with private harbors and yachts, some luxury hotels (Aman) but most privately owned by UAE money, or one development from a Egyptian Billionaire who is also building infrastructure for his development. I couldn’t tell if Vasco was feeling proud and excited about these developments, or disgusted. He talked a lot about how hard it is to make money here - the open jobs are all service based low paying jobs. He has friends working on cruise ships and oil platforms making really good money, but that’s a different life. He makes good money as a guide, but only has work about 8 months a year and then sits around depressed the other 4 months. I wondered if 100+ years being in a poor socialist country, not enough people know how to make it as capitalists?

Traffic in town was majorly connected. One lane roundabout at the main intersection. I had a nap during that part after a big lunch with alcohol. We finally arrived at the Old Town and got out on foot.

There are 5km of zigzag walls surrounding the town. Initially started during the 9th century, they were completed in the 14th century with endless additions made until the 19th century. Despite all the wars, erosion and natural disasters, the walls are still strong today.

The fortification was necessary as this was an important trading port, specifically weapons were stored and sold from inside the walls. We walked together to the 12th century Cathedral of St Triphon, where we said goodbye to our guide and went off on our own. Jeff and I walked as high as possible along the wall without paying the €15 to walk to the top. It was fun to poke along the narrow passageways that would open to patios and gardens belonging to the houses built into the steep mountain. We walked the portion of the wall that overlooks the harbor and newer part of the city, but that was crammed with tourists.

We headed down, grabbed a gelato and headed back to the ship to rest up the the evening. We showered and went on deck for trivia and evening entertainment. The restaurants are closed tonight and the staff went all out for a BBQ. Great cheeses and salads, seafood, Asian sucking pig, ribs, and chicken. Then a whole dessert table including an apple pie that was about 40” in diameter.

We ate early, at a table overlooking the beautiful city. There had been a large cruise ship in town, and it was fun to watch them steam off into the Bay while we enjoyed dinner. We then cleared out to the lounge to make room for others. It was quiet and we were into our second backgammon game, when a rush of noise and people came in. Apparently, the gorgeous evening turned into a sudden gush of rain!

The band moved inside. Entertainment tonight included a show of staff performing about 10 different line dances. It was really fun! So many of the staff, including our room attendant Asep, have such fun personalities and that really came out in their dancing!

[boutiquehotelsbg]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[beautytravels]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[travlestyes]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[bgineurope]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[travelessbg]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[trastravels]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[travelcamp]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.

[triptraveltour]

Constitutional Evolution in Bulgaria

From Tirnovo to Soviet Influence

Birth of the Tirnovo Constitution

When Bulgaria gained independence post the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the initial steps towards a Basic Law began during Russian occupation. The draft was presented to the first Constitutional Assembly in Tirnovo, an ancient capital, composed of freely elected or appointed representatives. In 1879, after extensive deliberation, Bulgaria adopted its first Constitution, known as the Tirnovo Constitution. Lasting until 1947 with minor amendments, it was then replaced by a Soviet-designed constitution under pressure from occupying Russian forces, still in effect today Private Istanbul Tour.

Liberal Foundations

Considered Europe’s most liberal at its inception, the Tirnovo Constitution drew inspiration from the Serbian Constitution of 1869. In line with the liberal and democratic European tradition, it established a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The National Assembly, elected by universal suffrage, held the reins of government. Fundamental human rights and civil liberties were guaranteed, limiting the monarch’s power, which could only be exercised through accountable ministers. Ministers could face impeachment by the National Assembly.

Constitutional Amendments

To amend the Constitution, the government had to conduct elections for a Grand National Assembly, which then decided on proposed changes. Illustrative of its character, Article 57 emphasized the equality of all citizens before the law, eradicating class divisions and distinctions like titles of nobility.

Challenges to Liberal Ideals

The Tirnovo Constitution’s liberal nature faced sporadic interruptions due to some monarchs’ authoritarian ambitions. Periods of violation saw the country ruled by governmental decrees. World War II witnessed Bulgaria under a royalist semi-totalitarian regime, deviating from its constitutional foundations.

The journey from the Tirnovo Constitution to the current Soviet-influenced constitution reflects Bulgaria’s evolving constitutional landscape, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures.