In Memoriam: Machiel Kiel (1938-2025), the Modern Evliya Çelebi

Year 2025, Issue: 15, December 2025, 151 - 188, 28.12.2025

Mehmet Hacısalihoğlu

Abstract

This article commemorates the life and scholarly legacy of Machiel Kiel (1938–2025), one of the most influential historians of Ottoman and Balkan urban history. Kiel’s work is indispensable for the study of Balkan cities, combining meticulous documentation of architectural heritage with extensive archival research. The article outlines his unconventional career path, major research achievements, international recognition, and extraordinary linguistic and regional expertise. It also reflects on the reception of his work and offers personal recollections of Kiel as a dedicated scholar, colleague, and friend whose contributions fundamentally shaped the field. The paper also includes the list of his publications.

Keywords

Machiel Kiel , Ottoman Empire , Balkans , Ottoman heritage , art history

References

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