32. The Greatest Ottoman Adventurer

In this episode of the Empire podcast, hosts dive into a captivating conversation with Caroline Finkel about Evliya Çelebi, a 17th-century Ottoman traveler known for his remarkable ten-volume travelogue. They explore Çelebi's life and distinctive writing style, which masterfully combines facts, fiction, and humor. Finkel recounts her journey retracing Çelebi's steps, examining vivid examples from his accounts—including his striking depictions of Istanbul, encounters with diverse cultures (notably tribes with cannibalistic practices), and experiences in Vienna. Listeners will find themselves gaining a fresh perspective on the Ottoman Empire and its cultural interactions, all while appreciating the historical backdrop of Çelebi's adventures. His keen observations and surprisingly modern approach to travel writing make his work a treasure for historians and anyone intrigued by early modern history.