I'm sitting in the lobby of our hotel overlooking the harbor with many little boats and one big cruise ship. Highrises sprout from the surrounding hills - blue skies and puffy clouds - quite a contrast to yesterday.
This morning we went to Ephesus where in Roman times before the 6th century over a quarter of a million people lived with running water, toilets and a sanitary waste system. We viewed the restoration process of terrace houses. Many of the mosaic floors and delicate freizes had been amazingly preserved.
This area is known as the third Ephesus. The city kept moving it as the shore line built up so it could continue to be a port. Around the 6th century, Ephesus no longer had access to water and the city declined.
One of the first structures to greet a visitor would have been the baths as traveling was a dirty, dusty ordeal. We saw some of the remnants of these, the Temple to Artimus (which at one time was considered one of the 7 wonders of the world.) There had been 127 Ionian columns - each 70 ft high - around it
We saw ruins of porticos which protected people from the heat and rain; the state agora - market place; the Vestal Virgin area with its eternal fire; and a beautiful sculpture of Niki , the Goddess of Victory
This had been above the gate that kept wagon traffic off the main street.
The most impressive ruin was the re-assembled facade of the library. It had held over 12,000 scrolls. They were written on papyrus. Later a Turkish town came up with parchment, made from hides. It was preferable as it could be bound and read like a book. To keep these documents away from summer's humidity, they were stored between the inner and outer wall of the library.
It is said there was a tunnel between the library and the town brothal. Young maidens sometimes went there before marriage for training, but did not stay unless they were going to be prostitutes.
Paul, Luke and John all preached in Ephesus and John is said to be buried there. Of course, we know about Paul's letters to the Ephesians. When Christians moved into Ephesus, they often knocked off the heads of pagan statues or made a cross on their foreheads.
To walk where so much history has taken place and see glimpses of their artistic and engineering abilities, has been awesome. This trip has introduced us to very caring, friendly people and their wonderful country !
Tonight is our final dinner together. We head for Istanbul tomorrow and home on Friday. It's been fun sharing our adventures with you. Let us know if you want to see any pictures.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Kusadasi
Tonight we're by the Agean Sea in Kusadasi. I've done the last of my sink laundry and am beginning to look forward to being home again. It's been a grand trip and we're glad you wanted to come along. Please let me know if you'd like to see some of our pictures on a "Smile Box" I hope to make soon.
This morning we drove up to Pamukkale-an area where warm 87 degree water and calcium bicarbonate have emerged continuously over the past 14,000 years to form sparkling calcified clifts. The hillsides look like they are topped with heavy snow. We could wade barefoot through the warm waters at the top.
Later we swam through natural hot spring pools. The area was first settled in 2 B C and large Roman columns used to surround these waters. These columns tumbled earlier because of earthquakes and we swam around them at the bottom of the pools. Mark Anthony and Cleopatra were said to have honeymooned here. We could just imagine their pleasure as we floated beneath the palm trees.
There are many ruins there including a 2 A D ampitheater from which they could be entertained by naval battled enacted on the thermal springs as well as plays enacting the life of the gods. It could hold 12,000 people.
The Romans built aquaducts and lined them with lead (pb) which gave us our word "plumbing" but caused them much craziness from lead poisoning They had fountains every 800 feet.
We passed the remains of hundreds of stone tombs. Many looked like small houses into which the bodies were placed. Some had lettering, sculpted pictures, and other decorations on them. There was always the fear of grave robbers as even the poorest person was buried with a gold piece under his tongue to pay his way across the river Styx. Others had much treasure buried with them as it was thought they would need it in their next life. Some wrote curses on the outside of the tombs and other arranged for poison gases to escape and kill anyone who tried to break into the tomb.
We were lucky to only have a shower while we were swmming, but when we got on the bus the rain came down in sheets and we could see lightening over the mountains. We were driving through clouds and were thankful not to be behind the wheel.
We rode through the very fertile Meander Valley known for its strawberries, figs , citrus fruits, and vegies. I noticed more color ( yellow, pink, blue, orange) on the originally grey cement structures
We stopped for lunch along the way. The highway restaurants put our truck stops to shame. All have had a wonderful selection of warm dishes, salads, and desserts for very reasonable prices. Most are cafeteria style We even had table clothes on our tables!
Tomorrow Ephesus!
This morning we drove up to Pamukkale-an area where warm 87 degree water and calcium bicarbonate have emerged continuously over the past 14,000 years to form sparkling calcified clifts. The hillsides look like they are topped with heavy snow. We could wade barefoot through the warm waters at the top.
Later we swam through natural hot spring pools. The area was first settled in 2 B C and large Roman columns used to surround these waters. These columns tumbled earlier because of earthquakes and we swam around them at the bottom of the pools. Mark Anthony and Cleopatra were said to have honeymooned here. We could just imagine their pleasure as we floated beneath the palm trees.
There are many ruins there including a 2 A D ampitheater from which they could be entertained by naval battled enacted on the thermal springs as well as plays enacting the life of the gods. It could hold 12,000 people.
The Romans built aquaducts and lined them with lead (pb) which gave us our word "plumbing" but caused them much craziness from lead poisoning They had fountains every 800 feet.
We passed the remains of hundreds of stone tombs. Many looked like small houses into which the bodies were placed. Some had lettering, sculpted pictures, and other decorations on them. There was always the fear of grave robbers as even the poorest person was buried with a gold piece under his tongue to pay his way across the river Styx. Others had much treasure buried with them as it was thought they would need it in their next life. Some wrote curses on the outside of the tombs and other arranged for poison gases to escape and kill anyone who tried to break into the tomb.
We were lucky to only have a shower while we were swmming, but when we got on the bus the rain came down in sheets and we could see lightening over the mountains. We were driving through clouds and were thankful not to be behind the wheel.
We rode through the very fertile Meander Valley known for its strawberries, figs , citrus fruits, and vegies. I noticed more color ( yellow, pink, blue, orange) on the originally grey cement structures
We stopped for lunch along the way. The highway restaurants put our truck stops to shame. All have had a wonderful selection of warm dishes, salads, and desserts for very reasonable prices. Most are cafeteria style We even had table clothes on our tables!
Tomorrow Ephesus!
Monday, October 18, 2010
This and That
In Antalya we ate in a garden under lemon and tangerine trees. There are over 300 days of sunshine there each year.
When Constantinoble was sacked during the Crusades, it is said the artisans fled to Europe and were instramental in the beginning of the Rennisance (sp).
Wedding dresses in the shop windows are strapless white numbers with very full skirts. One couple in our group saw a wedding couple in Antalya. The bride had blonde streaks dyed in her black hair and was radiant twirling in her full skirt. They asked if they could take their picture and the happy couple posed for them.
Some marriages are still arranged. The prospective groom's family comes to visit bringing sweets. The prospective bride excuses herself to make coffee with the proper amount of foam. If she doesn't like the fellow, she may put salt instead of sugar in his coffee. There is usually a religous as well as legal ceremony. Only 1-2% have only the religous ceremony as the man is not legally bound to the marriage and can walk away. 3-5% have only civil ceremony. Most have both with 200-400 at the celebration!
Couples do not live together before marriage and premarital sex depends on the man's knowledge of birth control. ???
There is no cremation in Turkey. Both weddings and funerals take place outside the mosques.
In 1924 after a war with Greece they had an "exchange of population" and all the Greeks who had been prospering in Turkey had to return to Greece and the Turks living in Greece had to come to Turkey - very painful - one house we stayed in was sold by the forced to leave Greeks for only 10 lira.
Today the lira is worth about 1.5 U S dollars. Even though we have a good rate of exchange, we seem to have spent quite a bit.
Breakfasts ALWAYS have tomatoes , olives, bread, (no croissants) , cheese, and hard boiled eggs. They often have fresh fruit, yogurt, meat, salad fixings ,occasionally cereal, and hot tea - you pour a little strong tea in your cup and add hot water - or Nescafe.
This is the second hotel that we've had a top sheet on the bed.
When Constantinoble was sacked during the Crusades, it is said the artisans fled to Europe and were instramental in the beginning of the Rennisance (sp).
Wedding dresses in the shop windows are strapless white numbers with very full skirts. One couple in our group saw a wedding couple in Antalya. The bride had blonde streaks dyed in her black hair and was radiant twirling in her full skirt. They asked if they could take their picture and the happy couple posed for them.
Some marriages are still arranged. The prospective groom's family comes to visit bringing sweets. The prospective bride excuses herself to make coffee with the proper amount of foam. If she doesn't like the fellow, she may put salt instead of sugar in his coffee. There is usually a religous as well as legal ceremony. Only 1-2% have only the religous ceremony as the man is not legally bound to the marriage and can walk away. 3-5% have only civil ceremony. Most have both with 200-400 at the celebration!
Couples do not live together before marriage and premarital sex depends on the man's knowledge of birth control. ???
There is no cremation in Turkey. Both weddings and funerals take place outside the mosques.
In 1924 after a war with Greece they had an "exchange of population" and all the Greeks who had been prospering in Turkey had to return to Greece and the Turks living in Greece had to come to Turkey - very painful - one house we stayed in was sold by the forced to leave Greeks for only 10 lira.
Today the lira is worth about 1.5 U S dollars. Even though we have a good rate of exchange, we seem to have spent quite a bit.
Breakfasts ALWAYS have tomatoes , olives, bread, (no croissants) , cheese, and hard boiled eggs. They often have fresh fruit, yogurt, meat, salad fixings ,occasionally cereal, and hot tea - you pour a little strong tea in your cup and add hot water - or Nescafe.
This is the second hotel that we've had a top sheet on the bed.
October 18
We were so lucky to have sunshine for our boatride. This morning we headed up the serpentine mountain roads with showers dripping down the windshield. The bus ahead of us sideswiped a parked car. Our busdriver avoided hitting either one and we all breathed a sigh of relief.
Our first stop was a very large Farmer's Martket. Locals from all around came to buy and sell: clothes, shoes, housewares, as well as all kinds of fruits, vegetables and nuts. For the Shiate (sp) women this is a very special occasion each week when they can see their friends and have a bite to eat away from home. They dressed up in bright colors. Everyone was in a holiday mood and it was fun to be a part of the excitement. School children dressed in various uniforms trouped through on their way home for lunch. One older man wanted to talk to us and tell us he had a son who was a registered doctor in NYC.
After lunch we went to Aphrodisias where ancient Greeks and Roman once lived. The ruins date back to 1776 B C. They are impressive. There was an oval stadium that could seat 30,000 people. During the athletic events only men attended because the foot racers, spear throwers and oil wrestlers did so naked. Women would join the crowd for musical and poetry events.
There was another ampitheater that was in amazingly good shape for being so old. This theater was used for government meetings. There are still marks showing where different groups sat.
Temple gates that were at least 40 feet tall have been put together by pieces found buried or broken by earthquakes. The temple was built about 1 B C with 40 columns surrounding it. Animals were brought and sacrificed. Many of the columns have been pieced together. There is also a museum filled with pieces of statues that have been found. Exceptional sculpting!
We're staying in Pamukkale. Have passed fields of cotton, olives, tobacco, sesame, pomegranits etc getting here. Although the Turks excell in color and design in their tiles and carpets, their houses are mostly square cement structures with red tile roof sporting TV dishes, solar panels and a water tank.
I have only had to use a Turkish toilet (2 foot prints on either side of a hole) three times. All of our accomodations have been clean and comfortable, but many of our group have been sick with respiratory or intestinal problems. Most were happy to have the long bus ride to rest.
Our first stop was a very large Farmer's Martket. Locals from all around came to buy and sell: clothes, shoes, housewares, as well as all kinds of fruits, vegetables and nuts. For the Shiate (sp) women this is a very special occasion each week when they can see their friends and have a bite to eat away from home. They dressed up in bright colors. Everyone was in a holiday mood and it was fun to be a part of the excitement. School children dressed in various uniforms trouped through on their way home for lunch. One older man wanted to talk to us and tell us he had a son who was a registered doctor in NYC.
After lunch we went to Aphrodisias where ancient Greeks and Roman once lived. The ruins date back to 1776 B C. They are impressive. There was an oval stadium that could seat 30,000 people. During the athletic events only men attended because the foot racers, spear throwers and oil wrestlers did so naked. Women would join the crowd for musical and poetry events.
There was another ampitheater that was in amazingly good shape for being so old. This theater was used for government meetings. There are still marks showing where different groups sat.
Temple gates that were at least 40 feet tall have been put together by pieces found buried or broken by earthquakes. The temple was built about 1 B C with 40 columns surrounding it. Animals were brought and sacrificed. Many of the columns have been pieced together. There is also a museum filled with pieces of statues that have been found. Exceptional sculpting!
We're staying in Pamukkale. Have passed fields of cotton, olives, tobacco, sesame, pomegranits etc getting here. Although the Turks excell in color and design in their tiles and carpets, their houses are mostly square cement structures with red tile roof sporting TV dishes, solar panels and a water tank.
I have only had to use a Turkish toilet (2 foot prints on either side of a hole) three times. All of our accomodations have been clean and comfortable, but many of our group have been sick with respiratory or intestinal problems. Most were happy to have the long bus ride to rest.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Mediterranean Cruise
It's hard to find the words to discribe this lovely day Temp about 74, light breeze, azure blue waters - sparkling and welcoming us in for a splash before a freshly cooked lunch of about a dozen dishes including freshly grilled fish. A birthday cake was provided for one of our group celebrating and later in the afternoon fresh fruit was provided. The shoreline was beautiful with expensive resorts and the sun making shadows through the clouds on the surrounding mountains. We had to drive through 3 tunnels to get to our ship. A short time before we were to get off an ice cream boat came by offering ice cream on a stick. Of course we each got one, but were surprised to find they were 5 lira each!
Enroute coming and going we saw palm trees and many perky periwinkle patches. There were 6 golden statues of ladies looking like they were drapped in a sheet, holding an orange in their left hand. They represented the awards given recently at Antalya's international film festival. Antalya's symbol is the orange and these statues were like large Oscars.
Turkey is really a large penisula, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Agean Sea, Meramera Sea - up near Istanbul- the Bosphorus Straits, and the Black Sea. It's about the size of Texas
Antalya is a very busy, modern city , filled with high rises.
Enroute coming and going we saw palm trees and many perky periwinkle patches. There were 6 golden statues of ladies looking like they were drapped in a sheet, holding an orange in their left hand. They represented the awards given recently at Antalya's international film festival. Antalya's symbol is the orange and these statues were like large Oscars.
Turkey is really a large penisula, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Agean Sea, Meramera Sea - up near Istanbul- the Bosphorus Straits, and the Black Sea. It's about the size of Texas
Antalya is a very busy, modern city , filled with high rises.
The Hamam (Turkish Bath)
We haven't felt this good since our last massage with Misha! We arrived at Antalya on the Mediteranian after driving through Turkey's highest mountains. We stopped in a grove of high cedars for a fresh trout lunch Some hiked through a cave. Jerry and I played Hearts - Jerry shot the moon and won. He's feeling much better.
The mountainsides were covered with these cedars until they reached above the tree line. Cedars from Turkey were said to have been used by Mark Anthony to build ships for Cleopatra.
Antoyla is a big city of a million people. We are staying in a 1920 home in The Inner Castle District with narrow cobbled streets and much charm.
Last night we went to the Hamam for our Turkish bath Wrapped in towels, a lady poured warm water over me and I laid down on a raised warm marble platform with other women until an attendant led me to a marble slab and told me to lie down. She then began to scub me with a loofah- that was a little rough- but then she poured warm water over me and covered me with bushels of bubbling suds. Her hand slipped like silk over my body as she massaged it. She poured more warm water over me and wrapped me on a dry towel. I was told to sit with other ladies from our group and given a glass of apple tea while they painted our faces with a green concoction. We all looked like the Wicked Witch ! After a bit, we washed it off and were led upstairs for an oil massage. By the time that was over we were completely relaxed and glowing. The evening cost $35 US dollars and was definitely a highlight of our trip.
On the bus, the guide answered some questions. Formal schooling begins about 7. Both public and private school cildren wear uniforms, but public is going to do away with them next year. Compulsory schooling is 8 years. For the 1,200,000 kids who finish high school, all must takes a university exam. Only about half are accepted the a university. It is a very tense time and produces many suicides both before and after the exam.
Exams have to be taken after university for state jobs. Recent scandal when 85 people got perfect scores-questions had been leaked somehow.
Unemployment is a big problem in Turkey - about 2 1/2 million - 10.89%.
Military service is compulsory for men 1/2 year for university grads - 1 year for others.
A teacher would make. About 1500 lira before 14% deductions for healthcare etc
A retiree makes about 1000 lira for 3 months - take home pay, cam go direstly to hospital for health issues and pay only 10% for prescribed medicines. Others pay 20% and have much red tape to get hospital services.
There are many women doctors, they only make up 9% of Parliment.
The mountainsides were covered with these cedars until they reached above the tree line. Cedars from Turkey were said to have been used by Mark Anthony to build ships for Cleopatra.
Antoyla is a big city of a million people. We are staying in a 1920 home in The Inner Castle District with narrow cobbled streets and much charm.
Last night we went to the Hamam for our Turkish bath Wrapped in towels, a lady poured warm water over me and I laid down on a raised warm marble platform with other women until an attendant led me to a marble slab and told me to lie down. She then began to scub me with a loofah- that was a little rough- but then she poured warm water over me and covered me with bushels of bubbling suds. Her hand slipped like silk over my body as she massaged it. She poured more warm water over me and wrapped me on a dry towel. I was told to sit with other ladies from our group and given a glass of apple tea while they painted our faces with a green concoction. We all looked like the Wicked Witch ! After a bit, we washed it off and were led upstairs for an oil massage. By the time that was over we were completely relaxed and glowing. The evening cost $35 US dollars and was definitely a highlight of our trip.
On the bus, the guide answered some questions. Formal schooling begins about 7. Both public and private school cildren wear uniforms, but public is going to do away with them next year. Compulsory schooling is 8 years. For the 1,200,000 kids who finish high school, all must takes a university exam. Only about half are accepted the a university. It is a very tense time and produces many suicides both before and after the exam.
Exams have to be taken after university for state jobs. Recent scandal when 85 people got perfect scores-questions had been leaked somehow.
Unemployment is a big problem in Turkey - about 2 1/2 million - 10.89%.
Military service is compulsory for men 1/2 year for university grads - 1 year for others.
A teacher would make. About 1500 lira before 14% deductions for healthcare etc
A retiree makes about 1000 lira for 3 months - take home pay, cam go direstly to hospital for health issues and pay only 10% for prescribed medicines. Others pay 20% and have much red tape to get hospital services.
There are many women doctors, they only make up 9% of Parliment.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Oct 16
Konya is a very conservative city There are no bars and liquor is not served in restaurants, but there are liquor stores and according to a recent survey, Konya is one of the highest consumers of liquor! Go figure! We notice most of the people on the street are wearing dark colors. There was a huge line at the ATM machines last night. We wondered if it were pay day.
Yesterday we visited a caravan stop on the Silk Road. The Sultan built these about every 15 miles as that's about as far as they could travel in a day. He received so much tax and income from the caravans that he gave them free lodging, food, baths and protection. It. was a very large enclosed area with armed guards patrolling atop the wall. The Sultan also provided doctors and vets and if someone had a sick camel, he would replace it - anything to keep trade moving and income coming in. Each trip took about a year, but when Vasco de Gama discovered the water route around Africa, the trip took only 3months and the bottom dropped out of the caravan trade
In the morning we met with an Imam and were able to ask him questions. Even though Turkey is a secular country, the Imams are paid by the government. He said the hardest part of his job is getting people to come to prayer Of the 3,000 in his area only 20-25 come to his mosque to pray. There are other mosques than his though. If someone comes with a problem ( suicide perhaps ) he would give religious answer and refer them to a professional. He feels social needs should be taken care of by state, but mosques in larger cities have soup kitchens, libraries, schools and bazaars.
Friday noon prayers are compulsary for men in mosque. God (Allah) is central. Christ is seen as a prophet - not divine. There is no original son, no need for an intermediator ; no confession. Jewish believe there's a messiah to come. Islam believes Mohammad is the last prophet who came because of human interferance with other religions. Allah is forgiving and grantor of wishes depending on one's personal behavior. Five Pillars: One God and his prophet is Mohammad. Pray 5 times a day. Fast 30 days during Ramadan to appreciate poverty. Give 1/14 of income to poor and needy. Go to Mecca.
Yesterday we visited a caravan stop on the Silk Road. The Sultan built these about every 15 miles as that's about as far as they could travel in a day. He received so much tax and income from the caravans that he gave them free lodging, food, baths and protection. It. was a very large enclosed area with armed guards patrolling atop the wall. The Sultan also provided doctors and vets and if someone had a sick camel, he would replace it - anything to keep trade moving and income coming in. Each trip took about a year, but when Vasco de Gama discovered the water route around Africa, the trip took only 3months and the bottom dropped out of the caravan trade
In the morning we met with an Imam and were able to ask him questions. Even though Turkey is a secular country, the Imams are paid by the government. He said the hardest part of his job is getting people to come to prayer Of the 3,000 in his area only 20-25 come to his mosque to pray. There are other mosques than his though. If someone comes with a problem ( suicide perhaps ) he would give religious answer and refer them to a professional. He feels social needs should be taken care of by state, but mosques in larger cities have soup kitchens, libraries, schools and bazaars.
Friday noon prayers are compulsary for men in mosque. God (Allah) is central. Christ is seen as a prophet - not divine. There is no original son, no need for an intermediator ; no confession. Jewish believe there's a messiah to come. Islam believes Mohammad is the last prophet who came because of human interferance with other religions. Allah is forgiving and grantor of wishes depending on one's personal behavior. Five Pillars: One God and his prophet is Mohammad. Pray 5 times a day. Fast 30 days during Ramadan to appreciate poverty. Give 1/14 of income to poor and needy. Go to Mecca.
Konya
Tonight we're in the large city of Konya, which had once been the capital of Turkey We walked through streets filled with vendors right before dinner and will be leaving at 9 tomorrow morning, so won't really have a chance to shop. And guess what - I saw wooden spoons for 1.5 lira!!!
We have traveled through vast plains with occasional irrigation. 22 million tons of wheat are grown in this area. We saw truckloads of sugarbeets being taken to be made into sugar. There were a few corn fields. There must be more elsewhere as all the cities have vendors selling corn on the cob.
There was a lovely rose garden at the museum/tomb of Rumi - the mystical poet. He said, " music is the food of the soul and dance is the joy of the soul". His disciples were known as dervishes and rhey learned special whirling dances so they have become known as whirling dervishes - uniting movement, music and joy ! So many people wanted to be buried near Rumi, there's the largest cemetary across the street that we've seen this trip.
Most all the buildings are of stone or concrete I have only seen wood used as a ceiling. Trees are not abundant and people have been sentenced to death for cutting down a tree. I think that was long ago.
I'm going to have to go to sleep - very tired and my eyes are shutting. Still looking for some personal mail on my email. Getting political requests for money - over and over again but few personal notes!
We have traveled through vast plains with occasional irrigation. 22 million tons of wheat are grown in this area. We saw truckloads of sugarbeets being taken to be made into sugar. There were a few corn fields. There must be more elsewhere as all the cities have vendors selling corn on the cob.
There was a lovely rose garden at the museum/tomb of Rumi - the mystical poet. He said, " music is the food of the soul and dance is the joy of the soul". His disciples were known as dervishes and rhey learned special whirling dances so they have become known as whirling dervishes - uniting movement, music and joy ! So many people wanted to be buried near Rumi, there's the largest cemetary across the street that we've seen this trip.
Most all the buildings are of stone or concrete I have only seen wood used as a ceiling. Trees are not abundant and people have been sentenced to death for cutting down a tree. I think that was long ago.
I'm going to have to go to sleep - very tired and my eyes are shutting. Still looking for some personal mail on my email. Getting political requests for money - over and over again but few personal notes!
Odds and Ends
Jerry felt pretty punk yesterday from the cold he picked up on the plane, but was given some Musenex so should feel better today
The walking poles have been fabulous! Even so I find myself struggling at times but Ikeep on trucking.
Had a walk this morning among the mamouth rock formations. There were no other tourists and I felt very small - almost like being in a non commercial Garden of the Gods.
Yesterday afternoon we visited a carpet weaving demonstration. First we visited a room where 5 ladies were weaving, but it wasn't the back and forth weaving I'm used to. The weaver would take about 8 inches of wool and wrap it around two different up and down strands - the loop making a knot around each. She would then pull the yarn down and jerk on it so that it broke. She laid the remaining piece of yarn up above to be used the next time that color appeared in the pattern. The ladies were given only half of the pattern. They were suppose to do the other half from memory. Girls as young as 14 could start learning to weave. They could take classes for 2 summer months for 3 years. If they qualified they were given a job. If they chose they could work at home. The company would set up a loom in their own house for them.
Some of the rugs were made of silk. That weaver could not break her thread by pulling, but kept a sharp little knife in her hand to do the job. Their fingers just flew.
In another room they had silk worm cocoons and showed how they could take a strand of silk from the covoons it took 500 of these to make a sturdy weaveable strand of silk
The finished rugs were magnificent! Rich in color and design Some would change color depending on where you stood. The White House Rose Room sports one of these rugs.
Three in our group bought. They got a great deal. The rugs were to be delivered
to their doors and the taxes were paid by the company. They in turn would be reimbursed by the government who wants to keep this craft alive.
Atop most every house is a water tank and 3 solar panels.
The word Cappadocia comes from Persia meaning "Land of well bred horses". Horses are said to have come to Europe via Turkey - as did tulips to Holland.
One gal hurrying to the bus paid the man and left. He came running after her. She had given him a 100 lira when she had meant to give him a 10! We've found the people to be very honest, friendly and kind.
The walking poles have been fabulous! Even so I find myself struggling at times but Ikeep on trucking.
Had a walk this morning among the mamouth rock formations. There were no other tourists and I felt very small - almost like being in a non commercial Garden of the Gods.
Yesterday afternoon we visited a carpet weaving demonstration. First we visited a room where 5 ladies were weaving, but it wasn't the back and forth weaving I'm used to. The weaver would take about 8 inches of wool and wrap it around two different up and down strands - the loop making a knot around each. She would then pull the yarn down and jerk on it so that it broke. She laid the remaining piece of yarn up above to be used the next time that color appeared in the pattern. The ladies were given only half of the pattern. They were suppose to do the other half from memory. Girls as young as 14 could start learning to weave. They could take classes for 2 summer months for 3 years. If they qualified they were given a job. If they chose they could work at home. The company would set up a loom in their own house for them.
Some of the rugs were made of silk. That weaver could not break her thread by pulling, but kept a sharp little knife in her hand to do the job. Their fingers just flew.
In another room they had silk worm cocoons and showed how they could take a strand of silk from the covoons it took 500 of these to make a sturdy weaveable strand of silk
The finished rugs were magnificent! Rich in color and design Some would change color depending on where you stood. The White House Rose Room sports one of these rugs.
Three in our group bought. They got a great deal. The rugs were to be delivered
to their doors and the taxes were paid by the company. They in turn would be reimbursed by the government who wants to keep this craft alive.
Atop most every house is a water tank and 3 solar panels.
The word Cappadocia comes from Persia meaning "Land of well bred horses". Horses are said to have come to Europe via Turkey - as did tulips to Holland.
One gal hurrying to the bus paid the man and left. He came running after her. She had given him a 100 lira when she had meant to give him a 10! We've found the people to be very honest, friendly and kind.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October 14 Guzelyurt
We are spending the night in a monestary! Can just imagine what these walls have witnessed! Once again we'll be sleeping under a high vaulted stone ceiling.
This afternoon we visited the underground city of Kaymakh that was created by the Hittites in 1600 BC. It was amazing and I wish I were still teaching so I could tell my students about it. The stone here was the same as the places we visited yesterday. It was soft and easy to carve, but hardened as it came on contact with the air. The Hittites took their design from the trees with a large round pillar, like a tree trunk,supporting each section, then spread the tunnels and other structures like the branches and roots of a tree. There have been 36 of these cities found. They are 8 floors deep. They created circulation systems and dug down 120 meters to get water. They would lower a bucket by rope to bring it up. The temperature remains an even 60 degrees. They could store food for up to two months. They kept many animals and disposed of their dung and human waste by mixing it with ashes from the fires and spreading it on their fields as manure. They filled their lamps with lindseed oil and fed the lindseeds to the animals. Up to 5000 people could live in these underground cities. They did this for protection. There was still a mill stone where they ground their grain and a big area where they actually did stomp on grapes to make wine. They had a huge round stone , they could roll in front of an entry way for protection. The stone had an opening in the center so they could see and/or shoot out. One member of our group said, "The Hittites had the Rolling Stones!". Groan!
These cities were later used by Christians. The creators were so cleaver they devised ways for the smoke to disapate, so the enemy would not know where they were.
Many of the tunnels were narrow and twisty and we had to be careful not to bump our heads. There were still holes in the ceiling where they would hang up a hammonk for the baby!
This afternoon we visited the underground city of Kaymakh that was created by the Hittites in 1600 BC. It was amazing and I wish I were still teaching so I could tell my students about it. The stone here was the same as the places we visited yesterday. It was soft and easy to carve, but hardened as it came on contact with the air. The Hittites took their design from the trees with a large round pillar, like a tree trunk,supporting each section, then spread the tunnels and other structures like the branches and roots of a tree. There have been 36 of these cities found. They are 8 floors deep. They created circulation systems and dug down 120 meters to get water. They would lower a bucket by rope to bring it up. The temperature remains an even 60 degrees. They could store food for up to two months. They kept many animals and disposed of their dung and human waste by mixing it with ashes from the fires and spreading it on their fields as manure. They filled their lamps with lindseed oil and fed the lindseeds to the animals. Up to 5000 people could live in these underground cities. They did this for protection. There was still a mill stone where they ground their grain and a big area where they actually did stomp on grapes to make wine. They had a huge round stone , they could roll in front of an entry way for protection. The stone had an opening in the center so they could see and/or shoot out. One member of our group said, "The Hittites had the Rolling Stones!". Groan!
These cities were later used by Christians. The creators were so cleaver they devised ways for the smoke to disapate, so the enemy would not know where they were.
Many of the tunnels were narrow and twisty and we had to be careful not to bump our heads. There were still holes in the ceiling where they would hang up a hammonk for the baby!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
High Lights
The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market in Istanbul were overwhelming! Every inch was filled with sellers - very colorful, noisy and confusing. I decided I'd look at wooden spoons. At one stall they were marked 7.5 lira I offered 5 and he said " fine." At another stall the wooden spoons were 5 lira each. I asked how much 2 spoons would be and they said, "9". So I bought 2 there- feeling a little smug- only to find them at another market for 3. They got the last laugh!
At the Cora Church the mosaics were amazing and the stories they told had Joseph having a first wife and going off to do carpentery with one of his sons.
Helen, Constantine's mother, was very Christian and went in search and brought back to this church part of the cross Christ was crusified on and the Holy Grail. They are said to be buried there.
The boatride on the Bospherous Straits took us by old and new palatial structures - a very kept up shoreline. The Straits connect Istanbul with the Black Sea
When one of our group asked an older lady to take her picture, the lady wanted her picture taken with our friend. So she gave her camera to someone to take their picture and the older Turkish lady put her arm around her and made the peace sign with her other hand. When asked if she could send her a copy of the print, she learned the woman had no address - many people here don't.
The average age in Turkey is 28....
The countryside getting to Cappadocia is poor volcanic ash. It's a vast, rather desolate, treeless plain with mountains in the distance. Here in CappDocia the people grow peppers, tomatoes, and flowers in manure filled pots as the soil is so poor.
We saw fields of pumpkins and squash and on our walk in town we saw a woman with a plasitic glove scooping out the seeds to be toasted and leaving the rest to be fed to animals.
Yesterday I saw my first hand knit sox, hats and gloves at a roadside stand.
We've seen a few camels and a couple donkeys and millions of cats!
The landscape around Cappadocia is much like our Bad Lands with huge rock formations sculpted by the wind. In one vast area the mountains provided caves in which the early Christians hid and later created monestaries. The rock could be easily carved, so many rooms could be made inside the mountains At one time 3 - 4 thousand people lived like our Native American Cliff Dwellers did. These dwellings date back to the first century AD. Later in 1100, pictures were painted telling the gospel story - remnants of which we could still view. I felt like a tiny dot in the earth's timeline.
A Delightful Turkish lady had our group for lunch. She wore a fancy top with pants that had elastic at the waist and ankles and extra material so it appeared she had a skirt on. She answered any question we might ask. We learned she had worked making carpets for 20 years; had a daughter who married for love and moved away, a son who lived nearby and brought his 7 year old grandson over before school. He came there after school as well and was supposed to do his homework. She didn't like making him do it - she wanted to have fun with him! She would love to know how to drive Her favorite TV program was "Law and Punishment" She put plastic bags over her grapes so the birds wouldn't get them. She would boil grape juice over an outdoor fire until it was thick as molasses to have during the winter when the snow was deep. She was a most exceptional hostess.
Would enjoy learnning who is with us on our trip and any news from home via our emails
At the Cora Church the mosaics were amazing and the stories they told had Joseph having a first wife and going off to do carpentery with one of his sons.
Helen, Constantine's mother, was very Christian and went in search and brought back to this church part of the cross Christ was crusified on and the Holy Grail. They are said to be buried there.
The boatride on the Bospherous Straits took us by old and new palatial structures - a very kept up shoreline. The Straits connect Istanbul with the Black Sea
When one of our group asked an older lady to take her picture, the lady wanted her picture taken with our friend. So she gave her camera to someone to take their picture and the older Turkish lady put her arm around her and made the peace sign with her other hand. When asked if she could send her a copy of the print, she learned the woman had no address - many people here don't.
The average age in Turkey is 28....
The countryside getting to Cappadocia is poor volcanic ash. It's a vast, rather desolate, treeless plain with mountains in the distance. Here in CappDocia the people grow peppers, tomatoes, and flowers in manure filled pots as the soil is so poor.
We saw fields of pumpkins and squash and on our walk in town we saw a woman with a plasitic glove scooping out the seeds to be toasted and leaving the rest to be fed to animals.
Yesterday I saw my first hand knit sox, hats and gloves at a roadside stand.
We've seen a few camels and a couple donkeys and millions of cats!
The landscape around Cappadocia is much like our Bad Lands with huge rock formations sculpted by the wind. In one vast area the mountains provided caves in which the early Christians hid and later created monestaries. The rock could be easily carved, so many rooms could be made inside the mountains At one time 3 - 4 thousand people lived like our Native American Cliff Dwellers did. These dwellings date back to the first century AD. Later in 1100, pictures were painted telling the gospel story - remnants of which we could still view. I felt like a tiny dot in the earth's timeline.
A Delightful Turkish lady had our group for lunch. She wore a fancy top with pants that had elastic at the waist and ankles and extra material so it appeared she had a skirt on. She answered any question we might ask. We learned she had worked making carpets for 20 years; had a daughter who married for love and moved away, a son who lived nearby and brought his 7 year old grandson over before school. He came there after school as well and was supposed to do his homework. She didn't like making him do it - she wanted to have fun with him! She would love to know how to drive Her favorite TV program was "Law and Punishment" She put plastic bags over her grapes so the birds wouldn't get them. She would boil grape juice over an outdoor fire until it was thick as molasses to have during the winter when the snow was deep. She was a most exceptional hostess.
Would enjoy learnning who is with us on our trip and any news from home via our emails
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
After supper
Had a hot shower, washed out a few things , and am tucked under 2 blanets in our huge, castle like room. There are 2 stone archways going to the sitting area and vaulted stone arch over the bed. I feel like a queen.
We had such fun at dinner. Most interesting, refreshing people!
We got off the train from Istanbul in the capital, Anaka, this morning. I thought sleeping on the train was fun, Jerry didn't sleep much, so was pretty tired today as I had kept us both up the night before being sick off and on all night Others had been scrubbing their teeth with tap water and hadn't gotten sick, so I must have gotten a bug somewhere. Luckily I felt fine the next morning.
In Ankara we went to a wonderful historical museum. They had original artfacts from the different ages - even statues of earth goddesses - giver of life. I'm wondering if the worship of this goddess plus the presence of the strong Amason women from this area made the men decide to become dominant and devise harems.... This is an original idea and may not be valid at all.
So much history has taken place here. One of the most exceptional leaders was Ataturk. After WWI when Turkey, having sided with Germany , was going to be divided into little pieces , Ataturk gathered an army and after 4 years of fighting the Greeks and other allies, established the Republic of Turkey. In less than the next 10 years he separated church and state upholding civil law over Islamic law; alligned Turkey with the west instead of the east;adopted the Christian calendar and the western alaphbet (letters); changed the language spoken in mosques from Arabic to Turkish - it has returned to Arabic- did away with polygamy and gave women many rights. We visited his tomb and while we were there the ambassitor from Portugal came with military representatives marching a bent knee goose step, and laid a wreath before his tomb. Taps was played and all the many tourists stood silently honoring Ataturk.
Time to hit the hay - some are going on a hot air balloon early tomorrow morning. The fresh fruit stands are glorious with fresh figs, peaches, apples, bananas, all kinds of nuts etc.etc.
We had such fun at dinner. Most interesting, refreshing people!
We got off the train from Istanbul in the capital, Anaka, this morning. I thought sleeping on the train was fun, Jerry didn't sleep much, so was pretty tired today as I had kept us both up the night before being sick off and on all night Others had been scrubbing their teeth with tap water and hadn't gotten sick, so I must have gotten a bug somewhere. Luckily I felt fine the next morning.
In Ankara we went to a wonderful historical museum. They had original artfacts from the different ages - even statues of earth goddesses - giver of life. I'm wondering if the worship of this goddess plus the presence of the strong Amason women from this area made the men decide to become dominant and devise harems.... This is an original idea and may not be valid at all.
So much history has taken place here. One of the most exceptional leaders was Ataturk. After WWI when Turkey, having sided with Germany , was going to be divided into little pieces , Ataturk gathered an army and after 4 years of fighting the Greeks and other allies, established the Republic of Turkey. In less than the next 10 years he separated church and state upholding civil law over Islamic law; alligned Turkey with the west instead of the east;adopted the Christian calendar and the western alaphbet (letters); changed the language spoken in mosques from Arabic to Turkish - it has returned to Arabic- did away with polygamy and gave women many rights. We visited his tomb and while we were there the ambassitor from Portugal came with military representatives marching a bent knee goose step, and laid a wreath before his tomb. Taps was played and all the many tourists stood silently honoring Ataturk.
Time to hit the hay - some are going on a hot air balloon early tomorrow morning. The fresh fruit stands are glorious with fresh figs, peaches, apples, bananas, all kinds of nuts etc.etc.
Cappadocia
We're in a spaceous room with sitting area and warm towel bars. This may be short as we have to meet the others for a Turkish traditional meal without shoes, sitting on cushions and eating a beef stew. We haven't found any food we didn't like. Last night I had stuffed grape leaves in yogurt for supper , lunch organic chicken soup with veggies and part of J's raviolie stuffed with mushrooms and sun dried tomatoes-rose ice cream for dessert. Lunch was prepared by the local culinary school and was exceptional to both the eye and mouth!
As you may guess, I'm hungry!
More later
As you may guess, I'm hungry!
More later
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Oct 10
Oh dear, I just scrubbed my teeth with tap water.... Hope I don't end up doing the turkey trot!
Am in bed after a delightful dinner and evening with 6 tour members. We walked down these twisty narrow roads, avoiding the cars as they squeezed by and the numerous cats. Wash dangled from many window openings and buildings often seem to be held together with duck tape and hope. From our room we look down on rooftops with missing tile and whole sections covered with a bright blue tarp held in place by pieced of wood.
The restaurant provided games of bacgammon and a tile game called "ok".
One fellow was smoking one of those water pipes when we left. The 8 of us had a whole dining room to ourselves. Our waiter took us to displays of various dished, so we could know what we were ordering. Jerry and I had chicken shiskabob - they may have cooked on a stick, but came on a plate with shredded lettuce, carrots, cabbage, and roasted tomatoes. The ovens must have been upstairs as 4 loaves of puffed up pita bread were lowered in a basket and served with butter and cheese. After dinner as we were ready to leave, our waiter brought plates of fresh fruit - delightful. He was so pleasant and shook each of our hands as we left. The conversation was lively as they all enjoyed Jon Stewart and Areana Huffington.
Rough day of walking this morning. Did see the underground cistern that had been used in Roman times fed by rain and aquaducts they had built. It was able to hold 28,000 gallons of water. It was built with beautiful columns confiscated from pagan sanctuaries they had torn down as they brought Christianity to the land.
Then we went to see the Hagia Sofia - a huge bascillica built by the Romans. The mosaic dome is beautiful. Men were allowed to worship on the main floor, but women had to climb up to the balcony.
When it became a mosque, the altar was destroyed and the cross cofiscated to be replaced with Arabic writings and minnerets Now it is a museum where hundreds throng. There were two cruise ships in today - crowds everywhere. We decided to head back early only we forgot to ask how to go. It only took 3 inquiries to get us to our destination. A most wecome nap and good evening have us looking forward to visiting the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market tomorrow . Then we go for a boatride on the Bosphorus and take an overnight train to Ankara. Don't know when I'll have WI FI again - would be fun to have a message or two from you when I do!
Am in bed after a delightful dinner and evening with 6 tour members. We walked down these twisty narrow roads, avoiding the cars as they squeezed by and the numerous cats. Wash dangled from many window openings and buildings often seem to be held together with duck tape and hope. From our room we look down on rooftops with missing tile and whole sections covered with a bright blue tarp held in place by pieced of wood.
The restaurant provided games of bacgammon and a tile game called "ok".
One fellow was smoking one of those water pipes when we left. The 8 of us had a whole dining room to ourselves. Our waiter took us to displays of various dished, so we could know what we were ordering. Jerry and I had chicken shiskabob - they may have cooked on a stick, but came on a plate with shredded lettuce, carrots, cabbage, and roasted tomatoes. The ovens must have been upstairs as 4 loaves of puffed up pita bread were lowered in a basket and served with butter and cheese. After dinner as we were ready to leave, our waiter brought plates of fresh fruit - delightful. He was so pleasant and shook each of our hands as we left. The conversation was lively as they all enjoyed Jon Stewart and Areana Huffington.
Rough day of walking this morning. Did see the underground cistern that had been used in Roman times fed by rain and aquaducts they had built. It was able to hold 28,000 gallons of water. It was built with beautiful columns confiscated from pagan sanctuaries they had torn down as they brought Christianity to the land.
Then we went to see the Hagia Sofia - a huge bascillica built by the Romans. The mosaic dome is beautiful. Men were allowed to worship on the main floor, but women had to climb up to the balcony.
When it became a mosque, the altar was destroyed and the cross cofiscated to be replaced with Arabic writings and minnerets Now it is a museum where hundreds throng. There were two cruise ships in today - crowds everywhere. We decided to head back early only we forgot to ask how to go. It only took 3 inquiries to get us to our destination. A most wecome nap and good evening have us looking forward to visiting the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market tomorrow . Then we go for a boatride on the Bosphorus and take an overnight train to Ankara. Don't know when I'll have WI FI again - would be fun to have a message or two from you when I do!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Oct 9. Third try Blue Mosque
We met our very enthusiastic guide and the rest of our group (28 total) and walked up the cobbled brick street - sidewalks often used by shop keepers so had to walk in streets- to this magnificent structure. The archetect was a contemporary of Michealangelo. The interior is a splendid display of delicate light blue, soft red and white tiles. The dome and arches provide a very light, airy feeling. It was originally lit with oil lamps which were smokey, so he devised windows which blew the smoke in such a way it could be collected and made into ink - talk about recycling!
The large prayer area is for men - women pray behind a lacy wooden screen. The prayers are recitation of the Koran and are now attended mostly by retired and unemployed men. Turkey is a secular state and if one's job demand time, that prayer is skipped to be made up later.
Turkey is 99 percent Muslim - 90 percent of which are Suni. The call to worship -once delivered by Messens in Turkish- is now blasted throughout by loud speakers in Arabic. There are 3 mosques nearby, so it is difficult to miss the notification of prayer time.
We had to cover our heads and remove our shoes before entering , Muslims also wash their hands, face and feet and are suppose to bathe entirely after intercourse or after a woman's period, before entering a mosque.
Later we had a Delicious Turkish meal with the group - eggplant with chicken ot lamb and baklava!
Soon asleep after 2 unsuccessful tries to send a note - looking forward to more adventures and getting to know our group So nice to have you along!
The large prayer area is for men - women pray behind a lacy wooden screen. The prayers are recitation of the Koran and are now attended mostly by retired and unemployed men. Turkey is a secular state and if one's job demand time, that prayer is skipped to be made up later.
Turkey is 99 percent Muslim - 90 percent of which are Suni. The call to worship -once delivered by Messens in Turkish- is now blasted throughout by loud speakers in Arabic. There are 3 mosques nearby, so it is difficult to miss the notification of prayer time.
We had to cover our heads and remove our shoes before entering , Muslims also wash their hands, face and feet and are suppose to bathe entirely after intercourse or after a woman's period, before entering a mosque.
Later we had a Delicious Turkish meal with the group - eggplant with chicken ot lamb and baklava!
Soon asleep after 2 unsuccessful tries to send a note - looking forward to more adventures and getting to know our group So nice to have you along!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Oct. 8, 2010
Well, we touched down around 5 p m and were through the long, hot lines to get our Visa and passports taken care of, pick up our luggage and get some lira by 6:15. As we were approaching , the screen on the back of the seat in front of us showed what the pilot saw from the cockpit. It was like driving the plane. Pretty cool!
The plane just had a smattering of passengers, so we could spread out as much as we liked. Some laid down across the 4 center seats. They passed out sandwiches and lemon cake during the night - after dinner and before breakfast - so I just put them in my backpack and we had them in our hotel room along with some apples and other snacks I brought this evening.
We sure were glad we weren't driving as there was heavy traffic with cars switching lanes and honking horns. We drove by the Merimar Bay with lights twinkling in the distance and 3 excursion or ferry boats gliding along.
We're tired, but very happy to be here safely. The hotel is very clean and nice. Now the challenge is to sleep through the noise from the passing train only a few feet from our window!!
P S Sponge Bob Square Pants was on the TV when we switched it on !
The plane just had a smattering of passengers, so we could spread out as much as we liked. Some laid down across the 4 center seats. They passed out sandwiches and lemon cake during the night - after dinner and before breakfast - so I just put them in my backpack and we had them in our hotel room along with some apples and other snacks I brought this evening.
We sure were glad we weren't driving as there was heavy traffic with cars switching lanes and honking horns. We drove by the Merimar Bay with lights twinkling in the distance and 3 excursion or ferry boats gliding along.
We're tired, but very happy to be here safely. The hotel is very clean and nice. Now the challenge is to sleep through the noise from the passing train only a few feet from our window!!
P S Sponge Bob Square Pants was on the TV when we switched it on !
Oct 7, 2010
Here we are on our magic carpet, aka Turkish airbus on our way to the land of Aladdin ! The seats are upholstered in turquoise and have a button that makes the lower part larger- supporting your lower back. We've been following our flight - south of Bay View and Gaylord, north of Quebec and out over the Atlantic. We have been given sox and eye shades, ear phones and a full course meal by midnight. The best part was the hot roll and baklava - the cold green beans served with lemon is an acquired taste, I haven't developed.
Time to try to get some zzzz's
Time to try to get some zzzz's
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
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