A visit to the Museum of Ephesus in Selçuk is essential for anyone exploring the ancient city itself. During my first visit, I was struck by the overwhelming presence of idols, statues, and pagan imagery that once filled Ephesus. The Seljuk museum vividly reveals the spiritual world of the ancient city and helps visitors understand the religious atmosphere that early Christians encountered there. Today, a seeker of Christian history will again encounter the ancient focus since one must look beyond the ruins and even the museum, where the exhibitions fail to highlight Christianity’s rise over its final 500 years.
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Qajar Art and Technique upon the City of Tbilisi
In 1795, the Qajar dynasty surged into the Caucasus, reaching Tbilisi. The Battle of Krtsanisi left the city devastated in a single, violent episode, scarring its streets and memory.
Yet history leaves more than ruins. In quiet courtyards, hillside homes, and public buildings, traces of Persian influence remain. If you know where to look, Tbilisi tells a story not only of destruction, but of artistic exchange and survival. Let’s explore the lesser-known corners of Tbilisi where the Qajar imprint lingers.
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Jvaris Mama Church with its Armenian and Georgian Churches
In the walled area of the Jvaris Mama complex sits two churches that source in two different orthodox churches. The Jvaris Mama is Georgian while the St. Mary Church is Armenian. The Georgian is active while the Armenian building sits as a hollow shell reserved for pigeons. Let’s explore this monastery complex.
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Antalya Bell Tower – Whoops! Clock Tower Walking Tour
The Antalya Clock Tower, recently renovated in 2024, centers in a prime location on the edge of the old city of Kaleici. The tower displays a mix of Seljuk, Ottoman, and Greek influences on the city. Within the tower are marble pieces, most likely from Byzantine buildings, which the Seljuks placed within the tower.
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