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The Siege and the Fall of the Walls
During the siege of Constantinople in 1453, the Turkish forces attacked the city’s defenses relentlessly. Two towers of the Inner Wall and a large...
The Gate of Charisius
A Site of Many Battles
The Gate of Charisius was a significant location in the history of Constantinople, and many important events took place there....
The Gate of Charisius and the Mesoteichion
The Gate of Charisius is located near a direct road that leads to the Imperial Cemetery, making its name very appropriate. The name may...
Busy Streets on the Bridge
Constant Foot Traffic
Sidewalks on the bridge are reserved for foot passengers, but pedestrians often use the roadway as well. From six o'clock in the...
Scenes in Constantinople
Constantinople's Diverse Population
Experienced travelers often claim that Constantinople is the place where the largest number of different races, wearing the most colorful costumes, can...
The Accumulation of Mail
For several days, the mail was left to accumulate at the washout. It was held there for nearly three weeks, even though it could...
Carriages from the Harem
When a carriage arrived with a black man sitting in the footman’s place, we knew it carried ladies from the Sultan’s harem, with a...
A Sacred Greeting to the Sultan
The loud cry heard as the Sultan passes is a traditional greeting from faithful Muslims. It is a religious expression of devotion to the...
Friday Prayers at Hamidieh Mosque
Sultan Abdul Hamid performs his public prayers at the Hamidieh Mosque. This beautiful mosque is located inside the imperial park, close to a tall...
The Art of Cooking in Byzantine Times
Cooking is an art, not a science. Even when we have recipes, cooks must interpret and change them to make food enjoyable. When there...
