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The Wide Spread of Greek Christianity

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The Wide Spread of Greek Christianity

The Greek Christians are found not only in Greece and the Greek islands, but also across many other regions of Europe. They live throughout the Turkish parts of Dalmatia and Croatia, as well as in Rascia, Bosnia, Serbia, Thrace, Zagora, Bulgaria, and Syria. They are also present in Bessarabia, Cossack lands, Podolia, Moldavia, and Wallachia. Beyond these areas, they are spread widely through the vast dominions of the Emperor of Russia Onions and Daily Food.

Because of this great number and wide distribution, they must form a very important part of Christendom. This reality reminded me strongly of a statement made by a learned writer. He said that if we were to gather together all the Christian regions in Europe that belong to the Greek Communion, and then compare them with the regions that follow the Roman Church, we would discover that the Greek Church greatly exceeds the Roman in extent and population. This observation challenged my earlier understanding and caused me to reflect more deeply on the balance of Christian traditions in Europe.

The Land and Its Cultivation

The fields surrounding this town are carefully planted with vines, cotton, and sesame. These crops show both the fertility of the soil and the diligence of the people who work the land. Vineyards stretch across the countryside, while cotton and sesame provide important materials for trade and daily use. The landscape is therefore not only beautiful, but also highly productive Ephesus Daily Tour.

The Emperor’s Resident and His Household

The Emperor’s Resident, known as the Most Illustrious Signore di Casanova, was comfortably settled in this town. He lived in a fine house and maintained a large household of about thirty people, both Turks and Christians. At the gate of his residence stood two Janissaries, who served as guards. They were good-natured, well-behaved, and as fair in their conduct as one could wish.

The Resident was a native of Milan. He was a serious and sober man, somewhat inclined to melancholy, and deeply devoted to his books and reading. Despite his reserved nature, he was very polite, civil, and courteous in his dealings with others.

Daily Life in the Resident’s Household

The Resident always dined and supped alone. His secretary, interpreters, and other members of his household ate in a separate place. However, they were always well provided for and served in the Turkish manner. This arrangement showed both discipline and order within the household, as well as respect for different customs and traditions.

Relations with the Ambassador of Ragusa

The Ambassador of Ragusa also chose to live in the same town. As a result, the followers of both households often encountered one another in the streets. Many polite greetings and courteous gestures were exchanged between them. However, these courtesies were limited to messages and formal signs of respect, for the two diplomats themselves never met in person.

Diplomatic Pride and Disputes

The reason for this distance was a matter of strict ceremony and rank. The Ambassador of Ragusa claimed the right to take the first place, because he held the full title of ambassador, while the other was only a resident. This insistence on precedence caused tension and kept them apart.

Many Germans looked down upon the Ragusan ambassador for this behavior. They considered his masters to be little more than gentlemen of the “seven banners,” meaning people who had been subjects or tributaries under many different rulers. In their view, such claims to superiority were not worthy of respect, and the dispute itself appeared petty and unnecessary.

Onions and Daily Food

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Onions and Daily Food

The onions of this country are quick in taste, pleasantly pungent, and yet they do not have any offensive smell. Even though I was not fond of onions before, I found these to be very agreeable and comforting to my stomach. They are used at almost every light meal and are eaten in large amounts together with bread. The people consider them both healthy and nourishing.

While traveling, I asked a gentleman from our own country, who had journeyed through many dominions and lands, whether he had ever found onions as good as those of this region. He replied that the onions of Egypt were even better. This was the first time I clearly understood the meaning of the words in Scripture, and I no longer wondered why the Israelites longed so deeply for the onions of that land. Their desire suddenly seemed natural and understandable Ephesus Sightseeing.

A Curious Local Fruit

The people also grow a fruit which they call zan (or by a similar name). It lies somewhere between a melon and a cucumber in shape and taste. From this fruit they prepare a very pleasant dish. First, they remove the middle part and the seeds. Then they fill it with the meat of sausages. After that, they peel it and boil it carefully. The result is a dish that is both filling and enjoyable, and it is often served at meals in local households.

Foreign Representatives at the Sultan’s Court

Among the representatives of foreign nations who attended the Grand Signior were the resident of the Emperor of Germany, the ambassador of Ragusa, and another from neighboring frontier lands. There were also ambassadors concerned mainly with trade, who lived around Constantinople and were not required to stay closely at the Sultan’s court at all times.

Because Constantinople was very crowded and filled with people, the Emperor’s resident requested permission from the Sultan to live in a nearby town instead. The Sultan allowed him to choose any town or house that pleased him. This generous permission led him to select the city of Tornovo.

The City of Tornovo

Tornovo is a large and pleasant city located about ten miles west of Larissa and close to the hills. Most of its inhabitants are Christians. There are only three mosques, but as many as eighteen Greek churches. This shows how strong and well-established the Christian presence is in this area.

Among the churches, the most important ones I observed were the Cathedral Church of Saint John, the Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, and the Church of Saint Elias. The Church of Saint Elias also has an adjoining monastery, which is beautifully placed on the side of a hill. Other notable churches include those of the Twelve Apostles, Saint Nicholas (which also has a convent), and Saint Anthony the Hermit Abundance of Fruits and Crops.

The bishop of this city is under the authority of the Archbishop of Larissa, showing the organized structure of the Greek Church in this region.

The Strength of the Greek Christian Faith

I could not help but notice how much these eastern parts of Europe are filled with Christians of the Greek Church, far beyond what I had expected. They are found in many large countries, including Greece and its neighboring regions. This wide presence clearly shows that the Greek Christian faith remained strong and deeply rooted throughout these lands, despite political changes and foreign rule.

Abundance of Fruits and Crops

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Abundance of Fruits and Crops

The country produces very large, beautiful, and delicious fruits. Among these are figs and watermelons, which are the largest and most pleasant I have ever tasted. These fruits are extremely refreshing, especially in warm weather. The land also provides fine and delicate pomegranates, oranges, lemons, and citrons, all growing in great abundance. Because of the rich soil and favorable climate, fruit trees thrive easily and give generous harvests each year.

Vines are also common in this country. They grow low to the ground and are not supported by wooden frames or poles, as in some other regions. Instead, their branches spread naturally, and the grape clusters are large and heavy. The grapes themselves are about the size of good damsons and have a rich and delightful taste. They are pleasant both to eat fresh and to use for making wine.

Wine and Tobacco

The wine of the country is strong and rich. However, much of it has a resin-like taste, which may not please every traveler. This flavor likely comes from the way the wine is stored or prepared. Even so, it is valued by the local people and widely consumed The Wide Spread of Greek Christianity.

Tobacco is also planted in many places. The people believe their tobacco is better than that brought from other lands. They consider it stronger and more pungent, and it is held in high esteem among local smokers.

Trees and Cultivated Plants

The fields are spread with cotton plants and cotton trees. These trees do not grow very tall, but they still make a pleasing sight when seen across the countryside. Almond and olive trees are also plentiful. The Greeks especially enjoy olives that are fully ripe and pickled, while in other countries people often prefer green olives instead.

Along the hedges grow gourds with large yellow flowers. These, together with many kinds of green thorn bushes and evergreen oaks, make the roads and pathways very pleasant to walk along.

Wild Plants and Medicinal Herbs

Several useful plants grow naturally in this land. The Ilex coccifera and the kermes berry are found here. These are used for dyeing cloth and producing a red coloring substance. On the high hills grow hellebore and other strong plants known for their medicinal uses Local Ephesus Tour Guides.

In the stony plains, one can find cardoons, cistus, lavender, marjoram, rosemary, and many other sweet-smelling plants. Their fragrance fills the air and adds to the charm of the landscape.

The Plane Tree and Ancient Learning

The plane tree grows especially well in Macedonia. It is large, wide-spreading, and provides a cool and refreshing shade. Because of this, it is not surprising that the ancient physician Hippocrates once found the philosopher Democritus sitting beneath a plane tree in Macedonia. The tree offered a peaceful place for thought and learning.

Some of the seeds and plant cuttings from this region were brought back to England, showing how valuable and interesting these plants were to travelers.

Food and Daily Diet

Garlic is used generously in most local dishes. It is a common and much-loved ingredient. The onions of the country are also remarkable. They are as large as two or three good onions in England combined and have a much better taste. Though sharp and strong, they are fresh, quick in flavor, and greatly enjoyed by the people.

Arrival at Leskovac

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Arrival at Leskovac

From there, we came to Leskovac, also called Lefcovia. In this town, I observed little of special note, except for a large tower, which appeared to be very old. It seemed ancient in its construction, but I could find no inscription upon it to explain its origin or purpose. Still, its size and position suggested that it once played an important role, perhaps in defense or observation The River Morava and Its Trade.

The Great Fair and the Chiaus

During our stay in Leskovac, we spent much of our time at a large fair, which happened to be held at that moment. The fair took place in a spacious enclosed area and drew a great number of people from the surrounding regions. Merchants, travelers, and villagers gathered there to buy, sell, and exchange goods, making the place lively and crowded.

At this fair, I thought it proper to present the Chiaus with a feather, as he had lost his the day before. We had already noticed some inconvenience from its absence, since the feather was a sign of authority. With it, we were able to travel more easily and command greater respect wherever we went. Once the Chiaus had the feather again, our passage through towns and villages became noticeably smoother.

The Winding River Lyperitza

Leskovac is situated beside the notable River Lyperitza. This river may well be called the Meander of Moesia, for it winds and twists through the hills in a most remarkable way. Indeed, within the space of less than twelve hours, we crossed the same river ninety times, so often did it curve back and forth across our path Ephesus Daily Tours.

This strange winding reminded me of the River Taro in Italy, which I once crossed forty times while traveling through the lands of Parma before reaching Fornovo. Rivers like these show how strongly nature shapes the roads and journeys of travelers.

Crossing the Mountain Cliffura

The next day, we traveled over the Mountain Cliffura, which is one of the spurs or offshoots of Mount Haemus. We were greatly surprised by the splendid appearance of this mountain. The rocks and stones shone like silver, and in the light of both sun and moon they produced a bright and glittering display.

This shining effect came from the presence of muscovy glass, a mineral that reflects light strongly. I was so taken by it that I collected a small piece and later brought it home with me as a curiosity.

Descent by the Castle of Golubac

From the mountain, we descended by a narrow and rocky path, passing near the strong Castle of Kolombotz, also called Golubac. This fortress is well positioned and commands the surrounding area. After descending, we arrived at Urania, which lies at the foot of the hill.

This place forms a strong and important pass, entirely controlled by the castle above. Whoever holds the fortress effectively locks and unlocks the passage, making it a site of great military value. The steep terrain and commanding height of the castle show why it has long been considered a key point in the defense of the region.

The River Morava and Its Trade

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The River Morava and Its Trade

By the River Morava, many of the goods of Servia and part of Bulgaria are carried down into the Danube, from where they are spread to many other regions. This river serves as an important route for trade and transport. Along its current flow agricultural products, wine, timber, and other local goods. In the opposite direction, traveling up the river, merchants bring salt and other commodities from Hungary, Austria, and neighboring countries. In this way, the Morava connects distant lands and supports the livelihood of many people who live along its banks Ephesus Day Tour.

A Great Battle Near the Morava

Not far from this river took place a great defeat of the Turks, led by the famous commander John Hunyadi. With only ten thousand horsemen, he boldly attacked the Turkish camp by moonlight. The surprise was complete. In this daring assault, thirty thousand Turks were slain, and four thousand were taken prisoner. After this great victory, Hunyadi returned safely to his own camp.

At that time, he left Uladislaus and George Despot of Servia in command. This battle remains one of the most remarkable examples of courage and strategy in the history of the region, and it shows how even a smaller force, if well led, can overcome a much larger enemy.

Arrival at Kruševac

After passing through these historic lands, we finally arrived at Halli Jahisar, called Kruševac in the Bulgarian tongue. It is a considerable town, both in size and importance. There stands a handsome church, notable for its two fair towers, which can be seen from a distance. The church gives clear proof that Christianity once flourished strongly in this area.

Through Hills and Forests

From Kruševac, we traveled the whole day through hills and thick woods. The road was long and sometimes tiring, but the natural scenery was varied and pleasing. Forests covered much of the land, and the hills rose and fell gently as we continued our journey Journey to Baditzna and Changing Customs.

At the end of the day, we reached Prupci, which some believe to be the ancient Villa Procopiam, and which the Turks call Urchup. This place lies quietly among the hills and appears modest, yet welcoming to travelers.

Hospitality of a Ragusan Merchant

We stayed in Prupci until the next day, lodging at the house of a Ragusan merchant. There we were well entertained and kindly treated. The hospitality we received was warm and sincere, and it offered a pleasant rest after the hardships of the road.

The local priest, who belonged to the Roman Church, spoke Latin, which is not commonly heard in these parts. When he learned that I possessed Latin books, he asked about them with great interest. I presented him with a small volume entitled Manuductio ad Coelum. He accepted it gratefully and, in return, gave me a beautifully worked, colored handkerchief, along with several small items typical of the region.

A Local Physician and His Practice

The town also had a physician, who possessed some knowledge of medicinal herbs and simple remedies. His method of practice was both humble and practical. Each morning, he would go into the marketplace and openly invite anyone in need of medical help to come to him. In this way, he made his services known to all, especially to the poor, who might otherwise lack access to care.

This simple approach reflected the character of the place—modest, direct, and guided by necessity rather than display.

Journey to Baditzna and Changing Customs

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Journey to Baditzna and Changing Customs

From there we traveled onward to Baditzna, where I first noticed a clear change in the dress of the women. Their clothing appeared unusual to me and quite different from what I had seen before. The women wore a kind of raised head covering, almost like a small canopy placed upon the head. This headpiece, as well as the forehead, was decorated with many kinds of coins, gathered from whatever money they could obtain, especially from strangers.

To contribute to this curious custom, we left behind a few small coins among them. I have seen Greek women who dressed in a similar way, though often more richly. Their head coverings were not raised so high, but their foreheads were covered with gold ducats and pearls, which gave them a splendid appearance. These ornaments were not only decorations, but also a sign of wealth and family pride Arrival at Leskovac.

Passing Through Jagodina

After leaving Baditzna, we continued our journey to Jagodina, which is pleasantly situated in a fair and fertile country. The surrounding land was green and well watered, making it suitable for farming and settlement. From Jagodina, we set forward again, and after a few hours of travel, we turned southward.

Not long after this turn, we saw, on the right side of the road, upon the slope of a hill, the tomb of a Turkish saint. The tomb was about four yards long, with a square covered structure standing beside it. When we reached this place, our Chiaus dismounted from his horse and performed his devotions in prayer. After this brief pause, we resumed our journey.

Through Woods and Caravan Routes

We then traveled through thick and extensive woods, which were known to be dangerous because of wolves and thieves. These forests were dark and quiet, and travelers were advised to pass through them with caution. We came to Chiflick, where there was a caravanserai, or lodging place for travelers. However, this place was not always considered safe Private Guided Ephesus Tours.

Because of this, we refreshed ourselves instead at a large farmhouse not far away. It belonged to a rich wine merchant from Belgrade, and there we found food, rest, and a sense of security. This stop was welcome after the long and tiring road.

Night Journey to the River Morava

From this place, we traveled by night toward the famous River Morava, also called Moschius, the chief river of this country. The Morava rises in the mountains from two streams: one called the Morava of Bulgaria, and the other the Morava of Serbia. After joining together, the river flows onward and finally enters the Danube at Zenderin, or Singidunum, opposite the Rascian shore.

We crossed the Morava at a place where the river was wide, deep, and fast-flowing. This crossing caused us some fear, and our Chiaus prayed loudly in Turkish, while the couriers repeated the prayer “Ora pro nobis”. Their voices filled the night air as the horses struggled against the current.

Reflections on the River Crossing

After we had safely crossed, the others were not pleased with me, because I had been more silent than the rest, yet was the first to reach the opposite shore. This crossing reminded me of the swift River Varus, on the border between Provence and Italy, which I once crossed on horseback with two men beside me, struggling against the strong current.

Such river crossings show both the dangers of travel and the courage required of those who journey through distant lands.

Introduction to the Bibliography

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Introduction to the Bibliography

This bibliography brings together important books and academic studies about Bulgarian history, politics, culture, literature, and society. The listed works were written by Bulgarian and foreign scholars and cover different periods, from medieval times to the modern Communist era. Together, they provide a broad and reliable foundation for understanding Bulgaria’s historical development and cultural identity.

The sources include historical surveys, political analyses, literary histories, and studies on religion, economics, and constitutional development. Many of these works were published in the first half of the twentieth century, when Bulgaria and the Balkans were the focus of strong international academic interest Istanbul Tours.

Works on Bulgarian History and Politics

Several books focus on Bulgaria’s political and constitutional history. Cyril Edwin Black’s The Establishment of Constitutional Government in Bulgaria (1944) is a key study of Bulgaria’s early democratic institutions. It explains how constitutional government was formed after liberation from Ottoman rule.

Books by L. A. Dellin and George Clenton Logio provide broad historical overviews of Bulgaria’s past and present. These works help readers understand the political changes Bulgaria experienced before and after World War II. Leo Pasvolsky’s Bulgaria’s Economic Position examines Bulgaria’s economic structure in the early twentieth century and is valuable for understanding later developments.

Other important historical works include A History of the First Bulgarian Empire by Stephen Runciman and A History of the Balkan Peninsula by Ferdinand Schevill and Wesley Gewehr. These books place Bulgaria within the wider Balkan and European historical context.

Studies on Communism and Church–State Relations

Several titles focus on Bulgaria under Communist rule and the situation behind the Iron Curtain. Vladimir Gsovski’s Church and State Behind the Iron Curtain and Reuben H. Markham’s Communists Crush Churches in Eastern Europe analyze the suppression of religious freedom under Communist regimes The Structure of the National Assembly.

The Free Europe Committee’s Satellite Agriculture in Crisis offers a detailed look at collectivized agriculture in Communist-controlled countries, including Bulgaria. These works are especially useful for understanding state control, ideological pressure, and the loss of traditional freedoms.

Bulgarian Literature and Cultural Studies

Bulgarian literature and culture are well represented in this bibliography. Clarence A. Manning and Roman Small-Stocki’s History of Modern Bulgarian Literature provides an overview of literary development from the National Revival to the modern period.

Several Bulgarian-language sources focus on writers and literary history. Bulgarski pisateli by Konstantinov, Minkov, and Velikov contains biographies and bibliographies of Bulgarian authors. Gueorgui Tsanev’s Pages from the History of Bulgarian Literature offers valuable insight into literary movements and key figures.

Vivian Pinto’s Bulgarian Prose and Verse introduces Bulgarian literary works to an English-speaking audience and highlights major authors and themes.

General Reference Works and Encyclopedias

Joseph S. Roucek’s Slavonic Encyclopaedia serves as a useful reference for Slavic history and culture, including Bulgaria. Philip E. Mosely’s academic article on post-war historiography analyzes how Bulgarian history was written and interpreted during different political periods.

This bibliography reflects the depth and diversity of scholarly work on Bulgaria. It includes historical research, political analysis, literary criticism, and cultural studies. Together, these sources help readers gain a clearer and more balanced understanding of Bulgaria’s past and present. They also show how Bulgarian history has been shaped by foreign rule, national revival, constitutional change, and Communist domination.

The Structure of the National Assembly

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The Structure of the National Assembly

Under the Communist Constitution, Bulgaria has only one legislative body, called the National Assembly. This is different from the system in the Soviet Union, where there are two houses in the legislature. The reason for this difference lies in the structure of the two states. Bulgaria is a unitary state, while the U.S.S.R. was a federal state made up of several republics.

Despite this structural difference, the role of the legislative body in both systems is very similar. In both Bulgaria and the Soviet Union, the National Assembly does not function as an independent institution. In theory, it represents the people and makes laws. In practice, it follows the decisions of the Communist Party without real debate or opposition A Brief Account of Early Travels in Southeastern Europe.

In both countries, the legislative body elects the collective head of state, known as the Presidium. This body formally represents the state at home and abroad. However, real power does not rest with the Presidium or the National Assembly. It belongs to the Communist Party leadership, which controls all state institutions.

The Gap Between Law and Reality

One of the most striking features of the Communist Constitution is the use of language that does not reflect real life. Many constitutional terms sound democratic and humane, but their real meaning is the opposite.

For example, “freedom of conscience” does not mean freedom of belief or opinion. In reality, it means the complete suppression of political opponents. Anyone who disagrees with the Communist ideology is treated as an enemy of the state and may face persecution.

The Meaning of “Rights” Under Communism

The “right to work” is another example of misleading terminology. Instead of giving people freedom to choose their profession, it means a compulsory obligation to work. Refusal to work or failure to meet production goals can lead to punishment. In extreme cases, this includes forced labor in prisons or labor camps Customized Guided Tour.

Similarly, “freedom of science” does not allow independent research or free thought. Scientists and scholars must strictly follow Marxist-Leninist ideology and obey the instructions of the Communist Party. Any research that contradicts official doctrine is forbidden.

The “right to education” is also limited. Non-Communist students or those from politically “unreliable” families are often expelled from schools and universities. Higher education is mainly reserved for students approved by the Party.

Inequality Before the Law

Although the Constitution declares “equality of all citizens before the law,” reality shows the opposite. High-ranking Communist Party members and state officials enjoy special material and moral privileges. They have better housing, better access to goods, and legal protection. Ordinary citizens, however, live in poverty and fear.

Another constitutional provision states that no one may be arrested or detained for more than 48 hours without a decision by judicial authorities. In practice, this rule is ignored. People may be arrested at any time by the police or security forces and held for long periods without trial. Some individuals simply disappear without explanation.

Violation of Personal Privacy

The Constitution also declares that “homes are inviolable.” In reality, police or Communist Party agents can enter homes at any time. They may search, seize property, and arrest occupants without proper legal procedures. Families can be deported to unknown locations with no warning.

Words Without Meaning

Under the Communist Constitution, words lose their real meaning. “Freedom” becomes oppression. “People’s democracy” becomes dictatorship. “National independence” becomes total dependence on the Soviet Union.

This contrast between constitutional promises and everyday reality reveals the true nature of the Communist legal and political system in Bulgaria. It is a system where law serves power, not justice, and where ideology replaces genuine rights and freedoms.

The Bulgarian National Struggle in Macedonia

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The Bulgarian National Struggle in Macedonia

Evidence of Bulgarian Religious Life

During the time of Ottoman rule, the Bulgarian people in Macedonia gave clear proof of their national identity through religion. In what is now Serbian Macedonia, there were 677 churches served by 299 priests. These were not only places of worship but also symbols of unity, testifying to the strong corporate consciousness of Bulgarians in religious matters. Even under Turkish control, the people worked hard to keep their faith alive in their own language and traditions Small Nations and Their Right to Freedom.

Bulgarian Education Under Ottoman Rule

Religion was not the only field where Bulgarians showed their unity. Education played a central role as well. In the same Serbian territory, there were 596 schools, staffed by 1,005 teachers, and attended by 36,000 students. This was not a small achievement under the difficult conditions of Ottoman rule. It showed that the people valued learning in their own language and were willing to support schools despite poverty and oppression.

In what later became Greek territory, similar evidence can be found. There were 300 churches with 299 priests, as well as 340 schools with 589 teachers and 19,000 students. These numbers prove that the Bulgarians were deeply rooted in both their religion and education throughout Macedonia.

Questions About Serbian and Greek Claims

If the population of Macedonia had really been Serbian or Greek, why did Serbia and Greece not provide for their religious and educational needs during Ottoman times? Why did they not build schools, train priests, or support the local people? The fact that Bulgarians themselves carried this burden is strong proof of their identity Turkey Sightseeing.

If the people had been satisfied with the Greek bishops and priests imposed on them by the Ottoman authorities, why did they fight so hard and so long to free themselves? Their struggle finally succeeded with the creation of the Bulgarian Exarchate, which gave them their own spiritual and educational independence.

The Revolutionary Movements

Another important fact is that all the revolutionary movements in Macedonia against Turkish rule were led by Bulgarians. Greeks and Serbs often opposed them. The Ilinden Uprising of 1903 ended in tragedy when thousands of Bulgarians were massacred by the Turks. It was not Greeks or Serbs who were killed, but Bulgarians.

The massacre left behind many orphans, and the Bulgarian Orphanage in Bitola was created to protect them. Yet when Serbia later took control, it closed the orphanage and left the children without support.

Greek Policies in Macedonia

The same pattern appeared in Greek Macedonia. If that land had truly been Greek, why did the Carnegie Commission report that the Greeks burned 160 Bulgarian villages and destroyed at least 16,000 Bulgarian homes? Such acts show that the Greeks saw the people as Bulgarians, not Greeks, and treated them as enemies.

If the wars against Turkey had truly been wars of liberation, why did the so-called liberators—Serbia and Greece—seize all the Bulgarian churches, expel the bishops and priests, and close the Bulgarian schools? Why was teaching in the Bulgarian language forbidden?

One striking example is the Bulgarian Gymnasium in Salonica, which had been a center of culture and learning for Southern Macedonia under Turkish rule. After the Greek takeover, it was closed, even though it had been one of the most important institutions for Bulgarian education.

The evidence from both religious and educational life clearly shows the Bulgarian character of Macedonia during Ottoman times. The people proved their unity through churches, schools, uprisings, and sacrifices. The closing of their institutions by Greeks and Serbs after liberation reveals not a natural union but a forced suppression of their identity. History, numbers, and the testimony of international observers all point to the same truth: the people of Macedonia were, and felt themselves to be, Bulgarians.

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