Waterfront Space Taken by Palaces
The waterfront of Constantinople is not used for typical shipping purposes, like docks or warehouses. Instead, it is occupied by the palaces of the Sultan and the pashas (high-ranking officials). There is only a small quay for loading and unloading goods. This quay is not much larger than a single pier in the New York Harbor or the space between two bridges over the Chicago River. All goods, including passenger luggage, must be handled in this narrow space sofia tours guide.
A narrow-gauge railway track runs along the edge of the water and ends at the custom-house, where all goods must pass through for inspection. There are no bonded warehouses in the city, so once imported goods arrive, they must be taken out immediately, and the duty must be paid.
Customs and Superstitions
Water for Birds at Cemeteries
In Turkish cemeteries, it is a common practice to place little vessels of water on the graves for the benefit of the birds. Some of the marble tombs even have basins carved into them for the same reason. This practice comes from the belief that birds carry messages from the living to the dead. Birds are thought to be spiteful unless the people show them kindness by providing water. This superstition reflects the deep respect for nature and the afterlife in Turkish culture Caution Regarding National Etiquette.
Religious Customs and Mosque Etiquette
Etiquette When Entering a Mosque
When entering a Mohammedan mosque, there are certain customs that must be followed. It is important to keep your hat on, but you must remove your shoes. This is because the mosque is considered holy ground. The tradition of taking off shoes is to show respect for the sacredness of the space.
Special Shoes for the Mosque
To make it easier to remove shoes, the Turkish people wear boots with double bottoms. A type of slip-on, similar to rubber sandals, fits over the toe and covers the sole of the shoe. This sandal is secured by a band that wraps around the heel. A small brass point sticks out at the heel, which helps in kicking off the shoes quickly before entering the mosque.
