Travelling Over Rolling Plains
As noted yesterday our tour went off as planned. On way to Edirne Cem came along as guide and provide commentary. Traveling over rolling plains. A few hills would be work on a bike. Two lane road (Turkish say one lane) with no center line and a good driver at reasonable speed, say 50 mph max. Gypsies - the people around here who travel in horse carts - traders, good musicians, special area to live near Erdine, don't travel widely. Much investment in Bulgaria is by Russian mafia businessmen.
Itinerary in Edirne - First to historic train stn. Now not active but being renovated as part of Thrake Univ (1982) (Thrace) - was part of Greek territory in nice neighborhood - traded part of Turkey for it. Kara-agec area (sp?). Bridge over Meric (merinch) River with seat for Sultan to see sunset. We had our photo taken sitting on it. Brief stop at ruins of synagogue - no longer Jewish community here - was 25000, few in Kirk now. Were 2 communities - sepharats from Spain, other from Europe. Old wooden houses near centre are different and some with intricate woodwork. Drive by Macedonian castle was covered by firemen's tower, then uncovered. Selimaye Camii mosque. 8 large (15 ft) cols supporting great dome. Mostly red carpet. How do you describe a large mosque - see the photos later. 15th century. White marble from island in Maramare used in hammam (baths) and mosques. Gold leaf used in decorations on ceiling. Palace ruins destroyed by Turks when Bulgarians attacked - this is beside wrestling arena. (1561 - Suleyman). Remains of palace kitchen (mosque in background). Trakya university Sultan Bayezid II Health Museum began operation in 1488. This museum was another mosque and restored as the hospital museum. Music was used to treat the mentally ill in this museum since the 16th century. Gardens and building are very attractive.
After lunch quick walk through big bazaar and back up old shopping street. Stops at ice cream store for some (not me - still full of lunch) and candy store - almonds and chocolate. Met back at minaret steps of Eski Camii - oldest mosque - 1414, but did not visit inside. On to highest point overlook at 1918 Balkan War Museum. Cem (correct spelling of guy I've been calling Jim) helped work on this museum during his service commitment. On to home now at 3:30 - half hour later than our commitment. Not to be pessimistic, but from here weather does not look promising and bush camp awaits us tomorrow we've heard.
Back at hotel started organizing. Had local food today so went for quick pizza tonight. Need my rest though got to stretch out on back seat of bus and take a nap on return.
That's it for today. Have to pack. Pray for three days of good weather for us.
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Posted September 21, 2005 by Tour Participant
Turkey |
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