Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
The ancient city of Carchemish, strategically nestled at the crossroads of mighty empires, stands as a monumental testament to the ebb and flow of civilizational power and influence. Located on the lush banks of the Euphrates River and shadowed by the Taurus Mountains, Carchemish has been a pivotal arena for the convergence of cultures, military … Read more
The Wahhabi movement, rooted in the teachings of Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Wahhab, has had a significant impact on the sociopolitical landscape of the Islamic world. Originating in the late 18th century, this movement has its foundations in the Arabian Peninsula, a region with a complex geopolitical status that has shaped the evolution of Wahhabism. By … Read more
In the turbulent early 19th century, as the Ottoman Empire waned and Napoleon Bonaparte’s ambitions extended to the East, a figure rose from modest beginnings to become a pivotal leader in the Middle East. Muhammad Ali Pasha, born in Kavala (Northern Greece), Ottoman Empire, would emerge as the orchestrator of Egypt’s modernisation, navigating through the … 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
Sir Mark Sykes, a prominent figure in British history, was not only a respected diplomat but also a prolific author. His contributions to both the literary and diplomatic worlds have left a lasting impact that is worthy of exploration. Born in Sledmere, East Riding of Yorkshire, England in 1879, Sir Mark Sykes, also known as … Read more
Freya Stark, a renowned British travel writer and explorer, takes readers on a captivating journey through the rugged landscapes of the Middle East in her book “Valley Of The Assassins.” In this travel memoir, Stark recounts her experiences venturing into the mysterious and historically significant Assassin’s valley, home to the formidable Rock that has intrigued … Read more