Freya Stark on the Lurs of Pusht I Kuh

In the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern history, few texts bring to life the vivid intricacies of cultural and geographical diversity quite like Freya Stark’s “The Valley of the Assassins.” Stark, an intrepid British explorer and travel writer, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of the Middle East, capturing the essence of its people … Read more

Gertrude Bell: Unveiling the Arabs of Mesopotamia

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Gertrude Bell, a luminary born in 1868, occupies a unique space in the history of Arabian travel writing—a trailblazer, a scholar, and an architect of the Middle Eastern narrative during a transformative era. Her life’s tapestry, woven with threads of exploration, controversy, and historical insight, invites us to unravel the complexities of a woman who … Read more

Gertrude Bell Travels in Kurdistan

Gertrude-Bell-Yezidi-Summer-Festival

In the annals of adventurous women who defied the societal norms of their era, Gertrude Bell stands as an indomitable force. A pioneering traveller, archaeologist, and diplomat, Bell’s insatiable curiosity led her on remarkable journeys through the heart of the Middle East during the early 20th century. Among her many exploits, her explorations through the … Read more

Gertrude Bell’s Reflections on Kurdish Yezidis 

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In the early 20th century, Gertrude Bell, a seasoned explorer and scholar, embarked on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of Kurdistan. Armed with an insatiable curiosity and an acute sense of observation, she set out to unravel the enigmatic tapestry of Yezidi culture—a community often shrouded in mystery and misconception. As a meticulous … Read more

Gertrude Bell on Mosul’s Political Tapestry

Gertrude-Bell-Mosul-Politics

In the intricate mosaic of Middle Eastern history, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Gertrude Bell. A seasoned explorer and a luminary in the realms of archaeology and politics, Bell’s gaze fell upon the city of Mosul during a pivotal period—April 1909, a time when the very fabric of political dynamics in the … Read more

Gertrude Bell’s Exploration of Mosul’s Ancient Churches

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In the twilight of the 19th century, amidst the rugged landscapes of Mesopotamia, a pioneering spirit named Gertrude Bell embarked on a journey that would unveil the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and histories woven into the very fabric of the region. Bell’s meticulous observations, penned with the grace of a storyteller and the precision … Read more