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Rivers and Trade Routes
Western Anatolia is shaped by several important rivers that flow from the interior toward the Aegean Sea. These rivers are dry for most of...
The Lydians and Their Influence
In addition to their strong skills in sailing and trade, the Greek cities of western Anatolia faced an important political power to the east:...
From Villages to City-States
Literary sources and archaeological evidence suggest that many early settlements in western Anatolia began as small villages ruled by hereditary kings. Over time, especially...
Latin Inscription and Its Meaning
A Latin inscription carved into the Inner Wall of Constantinople reads:
"PORTARUM VALID FIRMAVIT LIMINE MUROS, PUSAEUS MAGNO NON MINOR ANTHEMIO."
This can be roughly translated...
Repairs on the Theodosian Walls
The Theodosian Walls of Constantinople were some of the strongest city walls in the medieval world. Keeping these walls in good condition was extremely...
The Kerko Porta and Its Discrepancies
The history of the Kerko Porta is a bit confusing due to a key issue. According to the historian Ducas, the Kerko Porta led...
Fraudulent Naturalization Claims
The United States diplomatic and consular officials in Turkey receive daily applications for certificates from Armenians who claim to be naturalized U.S. citizens. However,...
Rigorous Inspections for Leaving Constantinople
When passengers are leaving Constantinople, their luggage is inspected just as thoroughly as when they arrive. Customs officers often demand larger bribes from travelers...
Chaotic Arrival at the Port
When the steamer drops anchor in Constantinople, the gangplank is quickly surrounded by a loud, wild crowd of boatmen. They yell and grab at...
Said Pasha An Honest Man in a Corrupt System
Said Pasha, who served as the Grand Vizier (the highest official after the Sultan), was known for being honest. Unlike most high-ranking Turkish officials,...
