Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
The ancient city of Carchemish, nestled on the banks of the Euphrates River, has long intrigued historians, archaeologists, and scholars alike. This historic site, once a pivotal city-state at the crossroads of the Hittite, Assyrian, and Babylonian empires, has unveiled its secrets through extensive archaeological efforts. The work of Sir Leonard Woolley and T. E. … Read more
Muhammad Ali, often remembered as a foundational figure in the modernisation of Egypt, was not just a political visionary but also a military strategist whose campaigns significantly altered the landscape of the 19th-century Middle East. His endeavours in military expansion and consolidation of power through a series of calculated campaigns showcase a period of profound … Read more
The Persian Gulf Campaign of 1819 stands as a critical chapter in the annals of maritime history, where the British Empire’s strategic foresight and naval prowess were vividly displayed. This campaign, pivotal in establishing British dominance over the Persian Gulf, saw the Empire confront the Qawasim Confederation, a formidable maritime power that had long been … Read more
James Wellsted’s “Travels in Arabia” provides readers with a unique insight into the wildlife and culture of Oman during his journey through the region. Wellsted’s observations on the local fauna and the customs of the people he encountered offer a comprehensive view of the Arabian landscape during his travels. Key Takeaways Observations of Local Wildlife … Read more
The Kingdom of Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, has a rich tapestry of history and culture that is deeply interwoven with its traditional tribal structures. These tribes have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s social, political, and economic landscape. From the establishment of the Al Khalifa rule in the … Read more
In the early 20th century, before the outbreak of World War I, T.E. Lawrence and Leonard Woolley embarked on an archaeological endeavour that would significantly advance our understanding of the ancient Near East. At Carchemish, a site of profound historical significance located at the modern-day border between Syria and Turkey, these two scholars pioneered methodologies … Read more