Corfu's Historical Relationship with the Turks

Corfu has a long history of resentment towards the Turks, and the island’s people have hated them more than any other group, even more than the Bulgarians or Macedonians. This hatred dates back over two centuries, to the time when the Turks ruled the region. Although much time has passed since the wrongs were committed, the islanders’ feelings remain strong.

From 1815 to 1863, Corfu, along with the other Ionian Islands, was occupied by the English. In 1863, when King George of Greece came to the throne, the British handed the islands back to Greece. Mr. Gladstone, the British Prime Minister at the time, played a key role in this, and the people of Athens were so grateful that they later erected a statue of him in front of the university Private Sofia Tours.

Corfu’s Charm as a Health Resort

Corfu is also known for its climate, and it has become a popular winter resort for people seeking a warmer, healthier place to stay. It is especially favored by people with lung problems and other health issues. During the period of British rule, the English built a system of excellent roads, which are still in good condition today. This road network allows visitors to travel across the island, enjoying its paradise-like beauty, especially during the spring and autumn.

The late Empress of Austria had a stunning villa on the outskirts of the city, and the Czar of Russia was once planned to visit Corfu in the hopes that the island’s climate might improve his health. Many other famous figures, who were struggling with their health, came to Corfu to take advantage of its sunshine and invigorating air.

Olive Groves and Local Economy

Corfu is about 277 square miles in size and is home to over 115,000 inhabitants. Most of the island’s land is covered in olive groves, with over 4 million olive trees growing freely without much pruning. These trees develop a remarkable beauty and size, making Corfu’s olive groves unique.

The main industry on the island is the production and export of preserved olives and olive oil. The island also grows a variety of other fruits and produces wine. One of Corfu’s other famous products is its cheese, made from goat’s milk, which is sold in markets in London and Paris.

Ulysses' Landing and King Alcinous' Garden

Local guides on Corfu often try to match their explanations to both the curiosity of visitors and the geography of the island. They point out the exact spot where Ulysses (Odysseus) is said to have swum ashore. They also tell visitors that the garden of King Alcinous, as described in the ancient myths, is now the site of the country palace of King George of Greece. King George is known as one of the most democratic and considerate monarchs. He enjoys sharing everything with the people and has a reputation for being friendly and welcoming.

Visitors are free to visit the palace without paying any fees, though it’s polite to leave a card at the porter’s lodge and offer a word of appreciation. The porter takes this as a personal compliment. In the town of Corfu, there is even a street named in honor of King Alcinous, and Ulysses is viewed by the local community as a legendary figure of whom they are very proud Private Sofia Tours.

A Historic and Political Island

Corfu has witnessed many exciting events, both in modern and ancient times. When I visited, there was a lot of talk among the locals about the Greek government’s decision to expel Mahmoud Damad Pasha, the brother-in-law of the Sultan of Turkey, along with Hadji Kadri and Siret, two other Turkish exiles. These men had fled Constantinople and sought refuge on the island. They were welcomed with warm sympathy and treated with respect.

However, the Greek government faced a difficult situation. While the relations between Greece and Turkey had improved since the end of the war four years ago, the Greek government felt that hosting such high-profile Turkish exiles could cause political problems. As a result, the government politely asked these Turkish fugitives to leave Corfu and move to Switzerland, which is known for its hospitality toward political exiles.

Entering Hellenic Ground

When you leave Brindisi, heading east, you enter Hellenic land, the land of Greece. The Adriatic Sea, though often praised for its beauty, is known to have an unpredictable temperament. While it’s often called “the blue Adriatic,” “the gem of seas,” or “the sapphire sea,” it is also known as “the stormy Adriatic.” An experienced sailor once told me, “It can stir up more waves than the Atlantic Ocean with the slightest provocation.”

Steamers to Greece

The steamers to Greece usually leave Brindisi at midnight, so they can arrive at the Greek coast early in the morning. When you wake up, you might be able to see the sunrise over the Albanian mountains of Turkey, which are often covered with snow. This marks your arrival in the land of mythology. Every island, mountain, and valley here is linked to a Greek legend or an ancient battle from the classical world. You’ll find that the places and names of ancient history feel real and familiar as you look at them from the deck of the steamer.

The Island of Corfu

The first stop in Greece is Corfu, a beautiful island located off the coast of Turkey. Here, you get your first look at oriental life and its customs. Tourists often get excited and start taking pictures of everything, from the ruins to the unique scenes that remind them of the warriors, heroes, and philosophers they read about in their studies. Greece is full of such historical sites Private Sofia Tours.

Ithaca and the Odyssey

Ithaca, the island connected to Odysseus, stirs strong memories. According to Homer’s Odyssey, after being shipwrecked, Ulysses (Odysseus) landed on Corfu. He swam to the shore and, to protect himself from the cold, made a bed of dead leaves on the rocks. After enduring great hardships and dangers, he fell into a deep, dreamless sleep. There, he was discovered by Nausicaa, the daughter of King Alcinous. Homer describes Nausicaa’s beauty in detail, and she led Ulysses to her father’s palace. The palace had lovely gardens with delicious fruits, marking the beginning of Ulysses’ return journey after many years.

Greece A Railway Journey from Corfu to Corinth

In Greece, there is a narrow-gauge railway that runs from Patras to Corinth. This railway follows the Gulf of Corinth, crossing a ridge that divides the isthmus and continues along the shore of the Saronic Gulf to the capital, Athens. Altogether, there are about 600 miles of railway in operation across Greece, though 300 miles of track have been abandoned Private Sofia Tours.

Abandoned Railroads and Their Importance

You can still find the tracks of the abandoned railroads in different parts of the country. One of the most important routes that was never finished was meant to run through Thessaly (the northern part of Greece) and reach the Turkish border. If it had been completed, this railroad would have been very beneficial for the whole country. The people of southern Greece don’t grow enough food to meet their needs, while northern Greece has plenty of food to spare.

The difference in bread prices between the Peloponnesus (southern Greece) and Thessaly (northern Greece) is extremely high. This is because Thessaly lacks many markets, while southern Greece has few farms. The railroad was supposed to help balance this situation by transporting food, but unfortunately, it was never finished. The rails now lie rusting, and some are even stolen for scrap metal.

Brindisi Gateway to the East

Brindisi, located in Italy, is the main gateway to the East. The steamers that travel to India, China, and Japan stop there, as well as those carrying passengers to and from Paris, London, Berlin, and other European cities. This makes it easier for travelers to avoid a long sea voyage from Bremen and Hamburg (in Germany) and from London and Havre (in France). Instead, they can take a train across Europe.

Special trains with dining cars and sleepers are arranged in connection with these steamers. These trains carry passengers and mail, allowing travelers to reach Paris and Berlin in about 36 hours, and London in 48 hours from Brindisi.

Diocletian's Palace A Luxurious Roman Retreat

The Emperor Diocletian, who was born in Salona, chose this beautiful place for his retirement. At the peak of his power and wealth, he built an extraordinary palace here to spend his later years. The palace, or rather a group of palaces, covers almost ten acres of land. According to contemporary sources, it required about 6,000 servants, attendants, and guards to maintain and protect this magnificent Roman retreat.

Construction of the palace took twelve years to complete, and it must have cost an immense amount of money. In both its size and beauty, it was more impressive than any building before or after. When finished, around the end of the third century AD, it was likely the largest and most expensive building ever created by humans. The palace was a symbol of Diocletian’s power and wealth, and it surpassed all other structures of its time.

Remaining Parts of the Palace

Even though much of the palace has been damaged or destroyed, parts of it are still in excellent condition today. These remaining structures continue to amaze visitors. Some of the best-preserved parts include:

The Mausoleum: Originally built as Diocletian’s tomb, it is now used as a church.

The Capella Palatine: This part is now used as a baptistery.

The Main Vestibule and Colonnade: The entrance area and colonnade still stand in good condition.

The Gates: Three of the gates remain, allowing us to study their architectural details.

These sections of the palace are well-preserved enough to allow detailed study and admiration.

The Decline and Destruction of Diocletian’s Palace

Unfortunately, much of the rest of the palace has been destroyed over time. The marble and building materials from the ruins have been taken and used to construct buildings in Trieste, Venice, and even Rome. In fact, several beautiful palaces in Venice are believed to have been built entirely with materials taken from Diocletian’s palace Private Sofia Tours.

After Diocletian’s death in 313 AD, the palace became property of the state, but no emperor after him used it as a residence. The cost of maintaining such a large and luxurious palace was too high. Soon after, the palace was converted into a fortress, and after the fall of the Roman Empire, it gradually fell into ruin.

A Unique Claim of Bosnian Jews

The Jews of Bosnia believe they should be exempt from the persecution that other Jewish communities have faced. Their reasoning is based on a religious tradition: they claim to be descendants of a member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish council at the time of Jesus) who voted against the crucifixion of Christ. Interestingly, Jews from Toledo, Spain, make the same claim. While this belief cannot be verified, it shows how some Jewish groups tried to distinguish themselves from others during difficult times.

Misconceptions About Governing the Turks

Many people believe that Turks are the hardest people to govern, but the Austrian experience in Bosnia proved that this is not entirely true. In fact, many well-educated and moderate Turks in Bosnia welcomed Austrian rule, especially because it brought order, peace, and progress. These individuals became loyal supporters of the new government Private Sofia Tour.

To deal with religious extremists, the Austrian authorities used a strategy that deeply affected Muslim beliefs. It was known that for devout Muslims, dying by execution was not a punishment, since they believed it would lead them to paradise. However, cremation—burning the body—was a terrible fate for them, because Islam teaches that resurrection is impossible if the body is destroyed. So, the Austrians threatened cremation for those convicted of serious crimes, which frightened extremists so much that many fled the country.

The Intelligence and Character of the Bosnian People

The Bosnian people are naturally intelligent, but for centuries, their talents were suppressed by poor education and a lack of opportunities. Under the Ottoman Empire, the people had little chance to rise through merit. Despite this, a few individuals—like Nikola Tesla, the famous inventor who was born in Bosnia—managed to succeed abroad. Unfortunately, such success stories were rare until more recent times.

Now, as education and opportunity improve, a new generation of Bosnians is beginning to shine. They are showing creativity, intelligence, and hard work. Another admirable trait is their natural honesty. In the past, under Turkish rule, corruption was common. But since the Austrian administration began, corruption has been strongly punished.

Fighting Corruption and Setting a New Example

When the Austrians took over, some local officials tried to continue the dishonest ways they had learned from the Turks. But they quickly discovered that the new government would not tolerate corruption. In recent years, there have been few, if any, cases of official dishonesty. The Austrian officials have also set a good example by acting with fairness and integrity, helping to build a new standard of leadership in Bosnia.

Religious Buildings in Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, is home to several impressive religious buildings. The Roman Catholic Church is a beautiful Gothic-style structure with two tall spires. It was built by the Austrian government, with financial help from Catholics in Vienna and other Austrian cities.

The Orthodox Greek Church is also a large and elegant building, and many of Sarajevo’s wealthy citizens belong to the Orthodox faith. There is also a notable Jewish synagogue, which stands out as an important place of worship. However, there is no Protestant church in the city.

Religious Oppression Under Turkish Rule

During the time of Turkish rule, only Muslims were allowed to worship in public. Other religions, such as Christianity and Judaism, were forced to worship in private. Christians were known as “rayahs”, a word that means “ransomed”. This term referred to non-Muslims who were allowed to live only because they paid taxes or “tribute.” The idea was that they had earned death for not believing in Islam, but were allowed to live by paying money.

Westerners today often do not realize the bravery of the Christian peasants in Bosnia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, and other parts of the Balkans. These people lived under constant fear. In those days, Muslims were taught that killing a Christian was not a crime. Yet, many Christians stayed strong in their faith, even though they could have easily gained safety, wealth, and higher status by converting to Islam. The same kind of bravery was shown by the Jews, who also refused to give up their religion.

The Jews of Sarajevo History and Present

Despite years of persecution, the Jewish population in Bosnia actually grew. Many Jews moved to Bosnia from Romania, where they were treated even worse by Christians than they were by the Turks in Bosnia Private Sofia Tour.

After the Austrians took over, many Jewish merchants came to Bosnia for business opportunities. However, the older Jewish families, who had lived in Bosnia for centuries, refused to associate with these newcomers.

These older families are descendants of Jews expelled from Spain in 1574. The Sultan of Turkey allowed them to settle in Bosnia and Serbia. Today, there are about 7,000 Jews in Bosnia, and 3,000 live in Sarajevo. They still speak Spanish among themselves and maintain many of their old customs.

One fascinating place is their cemetery on Mount Trebevic, near Sarajevo. The tombstones are rough, uncut stones, a tradition that began when the community was too poor to afford carved stones.

Bosnia in 1876 A Land Without Comfort

When Austria first took control of Bosnia, the country was in a very poor and backward condition. There were no modern facilities, and daily life was full of filth, discomfort, and disorder. Everything was old-fashioned and primitive, which discouraged respectable travelers from visiting. In fact, many people avoided Bosnia altogether.

A famous quote by Francis Bacon about Turkey in earlier centuries was also true for Bosnia in 1876. He described a land “without morality, without education, without arts or sciences… poorly built homes and unhealthy food… a disgrace to human society.” Bacon went on to say that where the Ottoman horse set foot, life withered—and Bosnia showed clear signs of this devastation.

Austria’s Plan for Modernization and Growth

The Austrian authorities worked hard to change the situation. They looked for every possible way to improve Bosnia. Their goals were to attract immigrants and investors, support business and industry, and make the country appealing to both locals and foreign visitors.

One of their smart strategies was to make Bosnia a welcoming place for tourists, who would spread positive word about the region. Over time, these efforts paid off. Bosnia became a much more pleasant place to visit, and its hotels not only attracted guests but also became profitable investments Private Sofia Tour.

A New Life Full of Culture and Entertainment

Under Turkish rule, the Bosnian people had been deprived of fun, art, and public entertainment. The Austrians changed that. They introduced theaters, operas, parks, museums, gardens, cafés, military bands, and parades. These new activities were warmly welcomed by the people, who had a natural love for music, dance, and public celebrations.

This shift not only entertained the public, but also had a deeper effect—it helped the people move away from political tensions and introduced them to a modern, joyful way of life. The Austrian example even offers valuable lessons for places like the Philippines, where people share similar cultural interests and where conditions once mirrored those in Bosnia 25 years earlier.

The Governor’s Residence and the Legacy of the Past

The official residence of the Austrian governor-general is called the Konek. It is a beautiful building surrounded by lush gardens and greenery. Interestingly, it was originally built 50 years earlier by a Turkish pasha, a man known for his lavish lifestyle and refined taste. He had unlimited funds and used them freely.

Around Bosnia, there are still many examples of past extravagance, both by Turkish rulers and private individuals. Sadly, the local people were heavily taxed in the past to support this luxurious spending.

A Rich Land for Ethnology and Archaeology

Bosnia is home to a wonderful national museum, which showcases the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The region is considered especially valuable for ethnology—the study of people, cultures, and traditions. In fact, Bosnia remains a largely unexplored area for ethnographic research, with many potential discoveries still buried in the soil.

A few years ago, Bosnia hosted an international congress of archaeologists and ethnologists, and the Austrian government welcomed the guests warmly. The event was meant to encourage scientific interest in Bosnia’s past. The reports published by the congress gained international attention, but there is no record that the United States participated in this important gathering.

Layers of History Still Waiting to Be Studied

Bosnia has a long and complex history. Throughout the centuries, the land has been inhabited by many different civilizations, each leaving its mark. The Romans and Greeks once built great cities here. These advanced cultures were later overrun by invading tribes, but Bosnia continued to rebuild and evolve with each new wave of people.

Today, many ancient remains are still visible, especially in the valleys of the mountains. Much of the country’s ancient art and architecture is buried underground. Alongside Roman and Greek ruins, there are also traces of Germanic, Gothic, Saracenic, and Turkish influence. Sadly, most of these sites have not been carefully studied. Some were even damaged or looted by locals searching for treasure or using the stones to build their homes Private Sofia Tour.

Bosnia offers a huge opportunity for archaeological research, much like what has been done in Greece. Scholars and research groups could find incredible discoveries if systematic studies were carried out.

Comfortable Hotels and a Welcoming Policy

Visitors to Bosnia can find good hotels in every region, many of which were built with government support. In some cases, the government gave financial help (subsidies) to help establish hotels that would attract tourists and businesspeople. This has proven to be a smart investment, making the country more appealing to travelers.

Austria’s Supportive Approach to Economic Growth

Austria’s approach in Bosnia is very different from that taken by the United States in its new territories, such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. In those regions, U.S. lawmakers discouraged investment, fearing that private companies might earn profits. They even banned the creation of new businesses or franchises, slowing down economic growth.

In contrast, Austria welcomed foreign capital and encouraged development in Bosnia. They even built hotels to make investors and visitors feel welcome and comfortable. This strategy helped to promote a positive image of the country and supported its long-term growth.

Turkish Laws Still in Use but with Local Additions

Although Bosnia is no longer truly ruled by Turkey, many of Turkey’s old laws are still followed in the region. Technically, Bosnia is still considered a Turkish province in name, but it will never return to Turkish control. Some of the Turkish laws are quite effective and fair, especially when used honestly. These laws were originally designed for the Turkish people, and many are still useful for governing Bosnians.

However, it has also been necessary to add new, local laws to meet the needs of the country. These local laws are made by an assembly, which is chosen by the tax-paying citizens of Bosnia. This legislative body not only passes new laws but also decides how much tax should be collected and how public money should be spent on services such as education, roads, and health Private Sofia Tour.

Preparing Bosnians for Government Roles

To make sure that native Bosnians can participate fully in their government, a special school called the Scheriatschule was created. This institution helps train students for important roles in the courts, the government, and the legislature.

About 200 students are currently enrolled at the Scheriatschule. They pay only a small entrance fee, along with a reasonable cost for food and housing. The goal is to make education affordable and accessible to local young people, especially those who wish to serve their country in official roles.

A Beautiful and Functional School Building

The school is located in a large, rectangular building designed in an Oriental architectural style. It is built from rows of black and white stone, which make the structure look a bit like striped clothing. Some people say it reminds them of a prison uniform, but the building itself is far from gloomy.

The entrance is impressive, with wide stone steps leading up to it. On both sides of the steps are flower gardens, and the main doorway is a tall arch that opens into a central courtyard. This courtyard features a fountain and flowers, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Modern Facilities for Quality Education

Surrounding the courtyard are the school’s most important rooms: classrooms, libraries, dormitories, dining halls, and even a chapel. All of these spaces are well-built and include modern conveniences, making life easier for the students.

The Austrian government has put great effort into making Bosnian schools examples of excellence. The Scheriatschule is not only a center for learning law and governance, but also a symbol of Bosnia’s progress under more stable and structured rule.

Safety and Freedom for Women in Modern Bosnia

Today, Bosnia is a safe place for women, whether they live alone or travel by themselves. This is a major change compared to just a few years ago. In the past, women could not even walk through the fields or along public roads without fear. Harassment and violence were common, especially under Turkish rule. Now, with peace and better law enforcement, women can move freely throughout the country without danger.

The Great Escape from Turkish Oppression

During the ten years before the Russo-Turkish War, more than 200,000 people fled from Bosnia. They were escaping the cruelty and harsh treatment of the Turkish rulers. These refugees left their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs and whatever they could carry. Holding their children’s hands, they passed through forests and mountains to reach the Austrian border, where they finally found safety. Ironically, they were not just fleeing from war or enemies, but also from the very officials who were supposed to protect them Sofia Guided Tours.

The Brutality of Turkish Rule

Under Turkish rule, the crimes committed against Bosnians were terrible and widespread. The Turks used violence and fear to control the population, and the scale of their cruelty is difficult to describe. According to an official report by the British consul, between 8,000 and 10,000 people were murdered each year—not by criminals, but by government officials and soldiers.

This type of violence was not limited to Bosnia. It also occurred in Bulgaria, and it continues today in areas like Macedonia and Eastern Rumelia, as long as European powers allow Turkish control over those regions.

The Scheriatschule A Unique Legal Institution

One of the most interesting institutions in Bosnia is the Scheriatschule, a special school where students learn about Islamic, Christian, and Jewish law. This is important because Bosnia’s population includes many different religious groups, and the government works hard to respect everyone’s beliefs.

This school helps train judges and officials to understand and apply the laws of each religion fairly. The Austrian government realized that religious beliefs influence people’s actions more deeply than almost anything else. They understood that good governance must consider religious conscience.

Respect for Religious Freedom and Fair Justice

Because of this understanding, Bosnia allows each person to worship freely and even exempts people from certain laws if those laws conflict with their religious beliefs. To support this system, separate courts have been set up for different ethnic and religious groups. This ensures that every citizen receives justice that aligns with their faith and traditions.

This respect for diversity and religion shows how Bosnia, under Austrian influence, has moved toward a more just and inclusive society.

Government Support Brings Prosperity to Industry

The Bosnian government has not only helped farmers but has also made important improvements in other industries. By following a paternalistic policy, the government has aimed to guide and care for the people, just as a parent would. This has resulted in increased happiness and prosperity across the country.

To support industrial development, the government has built factories and technical schools in all major towns. These institutions focus on training artisans and mechanics, who were previously very rare in Bosnia. The goal is to create a new generation of skilled workers who can contribute to building a modern economy.

Practical Education for a Skilled Workforce

In these training schools, students learn practical subjects such as:

Electricity, Chemistry, Mechanics, Engineering, Architecture and home construction, Machine design and maintenance, Carpentry, Masonry, Stone cutting, Iron working, Textile and fabric design

With this education, young Bosnians are becoming well-prepared to work in useful and productive trades. If they continue on this path, the next generation will be highly skilled in both technical fields and manual trades.

Growth of Textile Industries

Recently, the government has opened a wool mill and a carpet factory. The wool mill produces low-cost fabric for everyday clothing—similar to the homespun cloth traditionally worn by locals. The carpet factory buys raw wool from farmers, then turns it into Turkish-style rugs. These carpets are sold in Austria and Hungary at good prices, providing income for both the factory and the farmers Sofia Guided Tours.

In connection with the carpet factory, the government has also opened:

A spinning and weaving school for training workers. A design school to encourage young artists. A dye-making laboratory to create high-quality colors for fabrics.

These initiatives are fully supported by the public treasury and supervised by government officials. Even though they make a profit, the main goal is not revenue—it is to improve the lives of the people.

Life Under Turkish Rule vs. Austrian Rule

Under Turkish rule, Bosnians had a very difficult life. Most people lived hand to mouth, barely surviving. They were not allowed to build wealth, own good homes, or live comfortably. Corrupt officials would often take what little the people had. Because of this, many families would hide their homes deep in the woods or valleys to avoid attention.

Now, under Austrian rule, those days are gone. People no longer live in fear. They are building comfortable cabins, barns, and animal pens. Life is becoming more stable and enjoyable, and people are once again starting to dream of a better future.

Cattle Industry A Key Economic Sector

After farming, the cattle industry is the second most important economic activity in Bosnia. On average, each person in the country is matched by one steer (bullock), one goat, one pig, and three sheep. This shows how central animal farming is to everyday life. The animal hides—mainly from cattle—are tanned locally (processed into leather) and then exported to countries like Great Britain, France, and Austria. These Bosnian hides are known for their high quality and sell at excellent prices in international markets.

Fruit Production The Value of Dried Prunes

Another important export is dried prunes, which have become a valuable industry. In 1901 alone, prunes worth over $1,500,000 were exported from Bosnia. This trade provides much-needed income for many rural families and contributes to the country’s growing economy.

New Industries Sugar and Silk

The government has recently started producing beet sugar, and efforts are underway to develop silk farming (sericulture). The climate and landscape in Bosnia are particularly suitable for raising silkworms, and experts from Italy have been invited to train local people in this field. These experts teach farmers how to care for silkworms and grow mulberry trees, which are essential for silk production.

Government Support for Agriculture

The Bosnian government has taken active steps to support farmers and rural workers. It has:

Opened agricultural schools where boys can learn modern farming techniques.

Established training centers where girls can learn how to make butter and cheese, care for silkworms, and raise chickens and other farm animals Sofia Guided Tours.

Distributed seeds and farming tools to help farmers test and adopt new crops and methods.

Introduced new ideas in agricultural development.

These improvements are aimed at increasing farm productivity and boosting family incomes in rural areas.

Improving Livestock and Poultry Farming

To improve animal breeding, the government has established special farms and stud stations to raise better-quality horses, cattle, and sheep. Every year, livestock exhibitions are held in provincial capitals. Cash prizes are awarded to the best animals to encourage farmers to participate and improve their practices.

Poultry farming has also received great attention. The government operates at least twelve poultry farms that raise both game birds and domestic fowl. They distribute high-quality eggs from chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys to farmers free of charge—as long as the farmers follow the official instructions on how to hatch and raise the birds.

This strategy has been a major success. Today, poultry is abundant throughout Bosnia. A chicken costs only 10 to 15 cents in local markets, and a goose or turkey can be bought for just 25 cents. In fact, turkeys are so common that they could almost be called the national bird of Bosnia!

Separate Courts for Religious Justice

In Bosnia, during the Austrian administration, the justice system had to be adjusted to match the complex religious and cultural situation of the region. Because Muslims and Christians often held different views on legal oaths, the Austrians established separate courts for Muslim cases. This was due to the belief that a Muslim could swear falsely against a Christian without feeling guilt or committing perjury in his own religion. To handle cases fairly between people of different faiths, special rules and separate procedures were created.

Simple Disputes, No Lawyers Allowed

The Austrians also created special courts for minor disputes—small arguments between neighbors or local citizens. These courts were designed to solve problems quickly and fairly. Importantly, lawyers were not allowed to participate in these minor cases. This decision was made because lawyers were often blamed for encouraging unnecessary lawsuits, simply to earn money through legal fees.

Before the Austrians took over, this had become a serious problem. Almost everyone in the population was involved in lawsuits of one kind or another. If someone was even slightly unhappy with a neighbor, they might immediately take the case to court. To stop this abuse of the legal system, the Austrian government passed a law limiting the total number of lawyers in Bosnia to only sixteen. No new lawyers could enter the profession unless one of the sixteen retired or died.

Land Ownership Under Reform

Another serious issue in Bosnia was the tenure of land. During Turkish rule, most farmland was owned either by the government or by religious leaders, who were often unfair and harsh to the people working the land. Farmers were treated like servants, and much of what they earned was taken from them Sofia Guided Tours.

Over time, the Austrians introduced important reforms to improve this situation. Now, farmers are allowed to own the land they work on. This gives them security, encourages better farming practices, and helps them care for and improve their land. Although farming is still not very modern or advanced, the changes have made life more stable for rural people.

Farming and the Economy

About 88% of Bosnia’s population work in agriculture or animal husbandry. They raise cattle, sheep, and pigs, and one of the most important crops is tobacco. Tobacco farming is controlled by the government, and it operates as a monopoly. This means that while any farmer can grow tobacco, it must be done under the strict supervision of revenue inspectors. These officials measure the size of the land and even count the number of plants to make sure illegal sales don’t occur.

Tobacco Industry and Employment

In 1901, Bosnia exported nearly 2,000 tons of tobacco, but most of the crop is used inside the country. It is made into cigarettes in government-owned factories. These factories are not only profitable for the government but also provide jobs for nearly 4,000 women and girls, giving them a source of income and independence.

Women and Men Working Together

In modern Bosnia, Muslim women now work side by side with men, just like in Hungary. This change reflects the country’s social progress. In the past, many Muslim husbands would not allow their wives or daughters to be treated by Christian doctors, believing it was against the will of Allah. However, this old superstition is slowly disappearing. Today, many enlightened Muslim families recognize the benefits of Western medicine, and they now accept treatment from non-Muslim doctors, especially when it is necessary.

Western Influence and Cultural Change

Muslims in Bosnia who have seen the positive effects of reforms—such as improvements in farming, education, and government—are beginning to change their ways of thinking. While they remain strongly attached to Islam, they are also starting to adopt modern habits and customs from the Western world. This includes improved roles for women, greater public participation, and a more open-minded view of society.

Women’s Position is Improving

As a result of these cultural changes, the lives of Muslim women in Bosnia are slowly becoming more free and meaningful. They are no longer limited to the low status they traditionally held in other Muslim societies. Today, Bosnian women have more opportunities, and they are less restricted by old customs.

There is a common misunderstanding that Islam teaches that women have no souls or cannot go to paradise. This is not true. In fact, the Qur’an clearly teaches that women have souls and are eligible for eternal life in Paradise, just like men. The reason women do not attend mosques at the same time as men is not religious law, but long-standing cultural tradition. In many mosques, there are special times set aside for women to pray, though in some mosques they may not be allowed to enter at all Sofia Guided Tours.

Misconceptions About the Turk

Although the Turk has often been portrayed as cruel or harsh, this is not always the case. In fact, he has many admirable qualities. His religion, Islam, promotes many virtuous values, and most Muslims respectfully follow the Prophet’s teachings.

The Muslim character is sometimes full of contradictions. For example, it is often said that in Turkish courts, justice is influenced by bribery, and that many officials are corrupt. However, those who know Muslim communities well say that a Muslim’s word or oath, especially when dealing with another Muslim, can usually be trusted completely.

The Power of an Oath

In places like Bosnia and Egypt, when there is a legal dispute between two Muslims, the defendant will often demand that the plaintiff be required to testify under oath. This is because Muslims believe that if someone swears an oath, they must speak the truth. Their faith teaches that lying will prevent them from entering the afterlife. Therefore, falsehood is considered a very serious sin.

Corruption Is Cultural, Not Religious

The widespread corruption found in Turkish-controlled regions is not caused by the Islamic religion, but actually exists despite it. Islam itself teaches honesty, justice, and fairness. Unfortunately, these principles are not always followed in practice, especially by those in positions of power.