The Ottomans, now there was a group of guys that could spend some serious cash. When our family was visiting Turkey, we went through the archives of a famous Turkish Museum known as the Topkapi Palace,  when I came across this picture of some Ottoman Military Band Members. I believe i

Glory to God in the Highest Or something like that. First, a bit of background, I was raised in a church. A liberal one to be sure, one that allowed us to think our own mind.  One where Sunday School consisted of traditional bible studies countered with World Religion.  One where our

So, our friend Justin liked to build. A couple of days ago, we had a little history lesson about our friend Justinian I. Seems like he was  a good guy. Wanted to continue along the lines of the Emperor Constantine and make Constantine’s city one that was great and would be remem

I will admit that I am fascinated by history, but frankly, I am not the best at it.  There are a number of historical facts that I don’t know and if you questioned me on much of my own American History, I would fail at that as well.  But having an opportunity to spend time in pa

We had spent this amazing day, visiting Constantinople (not Istanbul), seeing sights that were 1500 years old and we were setting off for dinner.   And then it went wrong. I don’t know if you have had those moments when you just know something is wrong, something wasn’