Lifestyle

A Unique Assembly

When I first entered the Serbian Parliament, what struck me was its democratic feel. There were no aristocrats or wealthy-looking individuals. Instead, it resembled a gathering of labor leaders, farm workers, a few shopkeepers, and even a couple of long-haired priests. Most of the members wore peasant clothing, giving the impression that they were casual and relaxed, almost as if they were just enjoying a day off. Because of this, it has been aptly called the “Peasants’ Parliament.”

A Collection of Groups

The Parliament is made up of various cliques rather than formal political parties. When it comes to policies, members seem to share similar views: they generally want to lower taxes and have a strong dislike for the Austrians and Bulgarians. However, the real influence comes from personal connections and relationships. Rival leaders gain supporters, and they often switch sides based on personal benefit and sentiment—something that

Duration and Stability of the Parliament

The Serbian Parliament is elected for a term of four years, but it typically functions for only about two years before facing significant changes. If there aren’t at least six to eight shifts in the Ministry during that time, it is considered a slow political period. Just a week or two before my visit, a general election was held, resulting in the election of 160 members. However, after just one week of sitting, the Parliament was already grappling with problems related to the elections Istanbul Tours.

Addressing Election Irregularities

The first issue involved six seats that were contested due to irregularities—one seat belonging to the Government and five to the Opposition. In a surprising move, the Government decided to overlook these irregularities, reasoning that mistakes can happen in even the best-run elections. This

The Journey Up the Stairs

As I climbed the old, creaking staircase, I let out a sigh of relief when I finally reached the top. The air was thick and heavy, making it hard to breathe. I found myself in a crowded space filled with excited Serbians, all trying to hear what was happening. Down below, a lively gentleman was speaking passionately. He kept raising two fingers on his left hand and then two on his right, leaning in closely as if to emphasize his point to those nearby. The heat and the pressure of the crowd made me gasp again.

The Diplomatists’ Gallery

I pushed my way through the sweaty mob until I reached the Diplomatists’ Gallery, which I took as a compliment. This area was packed with large, panting individuals. At first, I thought I was surrounded by ambassadors, but I soon learned that ambassadors rarely attended Parliament sessions—only on special occasions, like the opening of Parliament. Instead, this gallery was filled with local gentle

A Historic Ottoman Capital

A visit to Brusa, the once vibrant capital of the Ottoman Empire, requires a minimum of three days, including a full day to explore the city. Travelers need a Teskereh (refer to p. 32). The steamers connecting Constantinople and Mudania, Brusa’s port, vary in comfort, with some like the Bengazi and Adranit providing a better experience on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays (returning on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays). However, passengers should bring their own provisions for the journey.

The departure time of the steamers is not fixed but usually falls between 8:30 AM and 10:30 PM. Through return tickets to Brusa are available through Messrs. Thos. Cook and Sons, 12 Bue Kabristan, Pera Treasures of Brusa.

The journey from Constantinople to Mudania takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours on the screw steamers. From Mudania, a 1.75-hour train ride connects travelers to Brusa. Trains align with steamer

Exploring Perge’s Residences:What kind of houses did the people of Perge, who crafted these beautiful structures and works of art, inhabit?

Prof. Dr. Haluk Abbasoglu:In our quest to understand the living conditions of Perge’s inhabitants, we focused on the design of their homes and tombs—shelters that served them during their lives and after death. Surprisingly, we opened six houses during our research, revealing their continuous use over approximately 400 years. After various modifications, these houses endured until the 500s A.D. However, this applies to the excavated portion; numerous housing areas in the unexplored section may unveil plainer and more authentic structures. Notably, one house featured a water-closet stone Charting the Path of Perge’s Development through History, traces of kitchen shelves, a well-preserved water tank, and an existing dining room. With an area of nearl

Insights from Prof. Dr. Haluk Abbasoglu

Q: Commencement of Perge Excavations:
Q: When and how did the excavations start in Perge?

Prof. Dr. Haluk Abbasoglu:Perge excavations commenced in 1946 under the leadership of Ord. Prof. Dr. Arif Mufit Manser. Since then, the archaeological endeavors have persisted with intermittent pauses. Prof. Dr. Jale Inan assumed responsibility after the passing of Arif Mufit Manser in 1975, and I have been overseeing the project since 1988. Excavations in Turkey require approval from the Board of Ministers and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. However, the Antalya Region Archeological Research Center Unraveling the Life of its Residents, a branch of Istanbul University Faculty of Literature founded in 1954, holds a unique status. This center spearheads excavations in the region.

Q: Recent Discoveries:
Q: What notable artifacts have been uncovered in recent years?