Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
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
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, has long been a place of significant archaeological interest, revealing layers of human history that span thousands of years. From the ancient Dilmun civilization, known for its unique burial mounds and religious temples, to the Islamic era, marked by significant architectural achievements such as the Al-Khamis … Read more
Few cities boast the storied past and archaeological significance of Carchemish. Nestled on the banks of the Euphrates River, stradling the the Syrian-Turkish border, this ancient city served as a pivotal crossroads of empires, cultures, and military campaigns, notably during the Hittite Empire’s zenith and the dramatic Neo-Assyrian to Neo-Babylonian transition. The Battle of Carchemish … Read more
The events leading up to the Wahhabi sack of Karbala in 1802 were deeply rooted in historical and political contexts that had significant ramifications for the religious and socio-political landscape of the region. The sack of Karbala was a pivotal moment marked by major events, involving key individuals, which had immediate effects on the communities … Read more