Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
Freya Stark, a renowned English travel writer, was an indomitable spirit of adventure and keen observation, whose extensive travels throughout the Middle East have left an indelible mark on the genre of travel literature. Among her most celebrated works is “Valley of the Assassins,” an enthralling account of her journey in 1930s Iran, offering not … Read more
Luristan, a name that resonates with an aura of mystique and untamed wilderness, emerges as a captivating backdrop in the timeless narratives of Freya Stark, the intrepid English explorer and celebrated travel writer who graced the world from 1893 to 1993. Stark’s explorations throughout the Middle East have left an indelible mark on the realm … Read more
The annals of history are marked by names that resonate with adventure and scholarly exploration. Among these, the name of Sir Aurel Stein shines as a beacon of intrepid expeditions, and it is in the context of his pioneering journeys through the heart of Iran’s ancient past that this essay unfolds. Stein’s fourth and final … Read more
In “The Valley of the Assassins,” a travelogue by Freya Stark published in 1934, the author invites readers to embark on a rich and evocative exploration of the lesser-known corners of western Iran. While the book’s title may initially suggest a narrow focus on the enigmatic valleys associated with the Assassins, Stark’s literary canvas is … Read more
In the annals of travel literature, Freya Stark is celebrated for her intrepid journeys across Arabian lands. Her vivid narratives of the Middle East have captivated readers for decades. However, lesser known are her equally fascinating adventures in the rugged terrain of Iran. Here, we delve into a chapter of Stark’s travels that takes us … Read more
In the mid-20th century, the intrepid explorer and writer, Freya Stark, embarked on a captivating journey into the heart of the Shah Rud Valley in Persia, now Iran. Her expedition was driven by a quest to uncover the hidden secrets of an ancient Assassin castle, Lambesar. This remote region held a mystique that had intrigued … Read more