Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In the vast expanse of the Arabian desert during the 19th century, John Keane embarked on a transformative journey as part of a colossal pilgrimage caravan en route from Mecca to Medina. This caravan, comprising hundreds of camels and pilgrims, traversed the arduous terrain, marking a pilgrimage of profound spiritual significance. As the caravan progressed, … Read more
Exploration serves as a crucial lens through which we unveil the mysteries of diverse landscapes, and one such enigma lies in the heart of Arabia—Nejd. This central region, obscured by the scarcity of European eyewitness accounts, beckoned the curiosity of Victorian explorers seeking to decode its geographical intricacies and socio-political nuances. In the annals of … Read more
The 18th-century Danish expedition to Yemen stands as a compelling narrative of intellectual curiosity characteristic of the enlightenment values of 18th century Europe. Led by a distinguished cohort comprising Peter Forskall, Christian Charles Cramer, Frederick Christian von Haven, George William Baurenfeind, and Carsten Niebuhr, this expedition bore the mandate of the Danish king Frederick V, … Read more
In the vast and challenging landscape of the Arabian desert, John Keane finding himself weary and worn, on a journey from Mecca to Madinah as part of a vast pilgrim caravan in the mid 19th century. The pilgrims, deceived by mirages, eagerly anticipate the sight of Rabigh, a major stopping point approximately halfway between Mecca … Read more
In the late 19th century, amidst the rugged terrains and enigmatic landscapes of Arabia, Charles Doughty embarked on a journey that would unravel the mysteries of Central Arabia’s heart. Renowned for his meticulous observations and fearless exploration, Doughty’s odyssey laid the foundation for an in-depth understanding of a region veiled in geological wonders, nomadic rhythms, … Read more
John Fryer Thomas Keane stands as a distinctive figure in the records of 19th-century Arabian travel literature. Born in England, in 1854, Keane embarked on a life journey that transcended the conventional boundaries of exploration. In 1877, at the tender age of 23, Keane undertook a pilgrimage journey of unparalleled significance—to Mecca and Medina. What … Read more