Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
In Gertrude Bell’s chronicles of the Syrian Jebel Druze, she delves into the historical significance of Salkhad or Salcah, an ancient city once ruled by King Og of biblical fame. This fortified city has a rich history dating back to the dawn of civilization. Situated at the base of a small volcano, Salcah’s most remarkable … Read more
Often viewed through the lens of contemporary conflicts, the formation of modern Syria is, in fact, deeply entrenched in a rich and complex historical trajectory. Central to this narrative is the critical role played by the Arab Revolt and the consequential Battle of Aqaba. Framing our understanding of Syria’s present through its past, these pivotal … Read more
As Gertrude Bell embarked on her journey through the Jebel Hauran, her path led her to two remarkable but long-abandoned villages: Shabha and Shabhiyyeh. These villages, nestled within the rugged terrain, bore silent testimony to the passage of time and the complex history of the region. Exploring their desolate streets and crumbling structures offered Bell … Read more
In 19th-century travel literature, “A Pilgrimage To Nejd” by Lady Anne Blunt holds a distinctive place. This chronicle offers us a vivid window into her journey across the Arabian landscape. Lady Anne Blunt, alongside her companions, embarked on this daring expedition to Nejd, a region now part of Saudi Arabia, at a time when such … Read more
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, amidst the shifting sands and timeless whispers of the Middle East, Gertrude Bell, a pioneering explorer, diplomat, and archaeologist, set out on a remarkable journey along the banks of the Euphrates River. Her narratives, chronicled with eloquence and keen observation, offer a unique lens into the landscapes … Read more
Lady Hester Lucy Stanhope, a name etched in the annals of history, graces us with her intriguing presence in the world of British exploration, archaeology, and adventure. Born on the 12th of March in 1776, she was a woman of remarkable courage and ambition, a luminary in a time when the world of travel and … Read more