Saksagan
The Firefighting Equipment and Spectacle
The fire engines used in old Constantinople (now Istanbul) were small and simple. They were so light that four men could easily carry one...
Firemen More Interesting Than Dogs
While the dogs of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) often attract attention, some visitors find the firemen even more interesting. Fires are quite common in the...
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...
Code of Conduct – Limes Congress
The International Congress of Roman Frontier Studies (Limes Congress) is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for everyone. We want all...
We Are Here to Help
We know that this guide may not answer all your questions. For that reason, we have a team of friendly volunteers and staff who...
Seljuq and Mamluk Architecture
Chair Nikos Tsivikis
This session focuses on towers and fortifications from various cultural and historical backgrounds across the Middle East and Anatolia.
Stéphane Pradines
Islamic, Armenian, or...
The Turkish Quarter
To reach the Turkish part of the town, you pass through a narrow stone gateway. Kavala is full of steep, rocky stairs—both going up...
Laughing at the Challenge
I laughed, lifted my hat, and urged my horse to run faster, quickly passing by. These mischievous young Turkish women! They would never dare...














