Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
The early 19th century marked a tumultuous period in the Middle East, characterized by a series of military confrontations that would reshape the political landscape of the Arabian Peninsula. Among these, the Najd Expedition stands out as a pivotal moment in the Ottoman–Saudi War, which spanned from 1811 to 1818. This expedition, executed by Egypt … Read more
The Ottoman/Egyptian-Wahhabi War, also known as the Ottoman-Saudi War or the Egyptian-Saudi War, remains a pivotal chapter in the annals of Middle Eastern history. Spanning from 1811 to 1818, this conflict marked a significant confrontation between the Ottoman Empire, aided by its Egyptian vassal, and the nascent forces of the First Saudi State, rooted in … Read more
In the early 20th century, Harry St. John Philby, an explorer and writer, embarked on a remarkable journey through Saudi Arabia, capturing the essence of its landscapes, people, and the political currents of the time. His book, “Arabia,” offers an in-depth look into his experiences and observations, providing readers with a vivid picture of the … Read more
Oman, a land of stark contrasts and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a subject of fascination for explorers, scholars, and writers. From the arid expanses of the Rub’ al Khali to the bustling ports along its coast, Oman’s diverse geography has beckoned travellers from around the globe. Among these were several early European adventurers, whose … Read more
In the early 1830s, James R. Wellsted, an officer in the Indian Navy, embarked on an exploration that would significantly enhance European knowledge of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman. Situated strategically on the route between Britain and India and at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, Oman’s geography and society were of keen interest not … Read more
When & Where was Freya Stark Born? Freya Stark was born on January 31, 1893, in Paris, France. Who were Freya Stark’s parents? Freya Stark’s parents were Flora Stark and Robert Stark. Flora, her mother, was of Italian and English descent, while her father, Robert, was British. Robert Stark was an artist, which influenced Freya’s … Read more