Saksagan
The Golden Gate and Imperial Ceremonies
In the time of the Byzantine Empire, the Golden Gate (Porta Aurea) was more than just a part of the city walls. It was...
Sir Thomas Roe’s Attempt to Take the Golden Gate Statues
In May 1625, Sir Thomas Roe, the English ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, wrote about his difficult mission: to try and obtain four ancient...
Ararat Urartu
Urartu Kingdom and Mount Ararat
Urartu was the name of a kingdom that existed in the 8th and 7th centuries BC, located near the east...
The Euphrates River in Prophetic Texts
The Euphrates as a Boundary of Time
In the Bible, the Euphrates River is sometimes used to mark the end of times, especially in first-century...
Daily Lawlessness and Impunity
In discussions with local authorities regarding the rampant lawlessness occurring within their jurisdiction, the responses are deeply concerning. Often, officials will either deny that...
Systematic Violence and Oppression in the Region
The ongoing violence and oppression faced by the local population are alarming. Two men from Mishka approached us, sharing that there is not a...
The Aftermath of Destruction
Total Devastation
In the wake of recent events, the devastation in the village is staggering. There were once 700 houses here, yet not a single...
Discovering Brusa
A Historic Ottoman Capital
A visit to Brusa, the once vibrant capital of the Ottoman Empire, requires a minimum of three days, including a full...
Treasures of Brusa
Mosques, Tombs, and Citadel
Ulu Jami (The Big Mosque)
Ulu Jami, also known as The Big Mosque, stands as a testament to the contributions of three...
