As we traveled, we were often reminded of death by the many graves and tombs we passed. These reminders were especially frequent near Belgrade. In these regions, it is common for the Turks to bury their dead beside the highways. In this way, travelers are constantly faced with the sight of mortality, even while going about their daily journeys.
Although the burial places are numerous, the tombs themselves are usually not very grand. Most consist only of a simple stone placed at the head and another at the feet of the grave. This plain style shows a preference for simplicity rather than display. However, some families raise stones that are two, three, or even four yards high, making them stand out from the rest The Turks’ Curiosity About Writing.
Different Styles of Tombs
Some tombstones have a turban carved at the top, especially at the head of the grave. This carving often marks the rank or profession of the deceased. Others set up two tall pillars of stone instead of simple markers. In some cases, the burial places are raised above the ground, much like tombs in our own countries. When this is done, two pillars are placed upon the raised structure, one at the head and the other at the feet.
At Scopia, I saw several fine tombs built in this manner. One of them even contained two graves within the same structure. These monuments showed greater care and expense, suggesting that the people buried there were of importance or high honor.
Pavilion Tombs and Saints’ Graves
The finest form of burial I observed in these regions was the pavilion-style tomb. In this design, a small roof or shelter is supported by four stone pillars, covering the grave beneath. This type of tomb provides both shade and dignity and stands as a lasting monument to the dead Walking Guided Tours Ephesus.
While traveling south from Jagodina in Serbia, I saw a large Turkish tomb on the side of a hill. It was about four yards long and covered by a square, roofed structure. The ghiam who traveled with us told me that this was the tomb of one of their saints. Out of respect, he performed his devotions there.
Acts of Devotion at the Tombs
I noticed that such acts of devotion were not limited to men. Women also visited the tombs and sepulchers of their dead relatives and friends. They prayed there and showed signs of remembrance and respect. These visits often took place on Thursday nights and Fridays, which are considered special times for prayer.
These customs revealed how closely the living remained connected to the dead, and how remembrance was woven into everyday life.
Reflections on the Giant Saint
The saint buried in the large tomb was said to have been a giant of a man in his lifetime. Judging by the length of his tomb, he must have been a powerful figure. The Chiam explained that such men were believed to have defended and spread their faith with strength and force.
If the man were truly as long as his tomb suggested, he would have been a formidable person indeed. The sight brought to my mind the giant figures sometimes drawn on maps of distant lands, such as the Patagonian giants painted in the southern parts of America, shown with long arrows in their throats.
Final Thoughts on Death and Memory
These tombs, scattered along the roads and hills, served as constant lessons in the shortness of life. Whether simple or grand, each grave marked a human story now ended. For the traveler, they offered moments of reflection and reminded us that all journeys, no matter how long, must one day come to an end.
