Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
The Persian Gulf, a region of immense historical and geopolitical significance, has witnessed the ebb and flow of countless civilizations and nations over the centuries. While modern associations may not readily link Portugal to the Persian Gulf, the historical narrative reveals an intriguing and often overlooked chapter in the region’s history. Long before the major … Read more
In the autumn of 1939, Freya Stark offered her services to the British Ministry of Information, capitalizing on her extensive prior experience in the Middle East. Her remarkable journey in this phase of her life began when she was assigned to Yemen with the mission of disseminating propaganda in support of the British cause. A … Read more
Nestled in the northern reaches of Syria, Carchemish stands as a historical citadel that has played a pivotal role in the annals of human civilization. Throughout its existence, this city has oscillated between periods of independence and subjugation under the dominion of empires like Mitanni, Hittite, and Neo-Assyrian. Today, it straddles the modern border separating … Read more
Thomas Edward Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, left an indelible mark on history with his multifaceted life and remarkable achievements. Born on 16 August 1888, his legacy extends across various domains, including archaeology, military service, diplomacy, and literature. A Birth Beyond Boundaries Lawrence’s origin story is as unconventional as his life. He was born … Read more
Charles Montagu Doughty (19 August 1843 – 20 January 1926) was an English poet, writer, explorer, adventurer, and traveler, best known for his two-volume 1888 travel book “Travels in Arabia Deserta.” Early Life and Education Born at Theberton Hall near Saxmundham, Suffolk, to Rev. Charles Montagu Doughty and Frederica Beaumont Hotham, Doughty received his education … Read more
In the midst of World War I, Freya Stark embarked on a transformative path that would lead her to the enchanting landscapes of the Middle East. With compassion and a profound sense of duty, Stark received training as a volunteer nurse and offered her services to the British Red Cross, initially stationed at the picturesque … Read more