This summer, we had the pleasure of organizing a summer school titled “Şifalandıran Anadolu, Şifalanan Tarih” (‘The Healer Anatolia, Healing History’) at Arkhe, Şirince, in Izmir. We spent a wonderful week of learning and discovery alongside our participants. We discussed key issues in the history of medicine, held workshops on the historical use of plants in medicine, and engaged in creative sessions where we learned through play. Additionally, we visited the ancient sites of Ephesus, Pergamon, and Asklepion. It was truly a pleasure meeting our dear participants, and we eagerly look forward to reconnecting with them, as well as welcoming new friends, next summer.
Below, you will some commentary by our participants on their experiences at the camp:
“I am grateful to the project team. I took great pleasure in the camp. The friendliness and curiosity of the participants was inspiring. Thanks to this camp, my perspective on reading and writing history has changed a lot. I met people with knowledgeable and colorful personalities. We shared so much, day and night.”
“I believe we all healed both mentally and spiritually. The impact of the site chosen for the camp is also huge in this healing. I adored Arkhe, a peaceful place in ancient lands, in the heart of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
“It was a wonderful week. I thank you all. I listened to the topics on the history of medicine with curiosity, learned a lot and developed new insights. I really would love to meet again. Our field trips were also delightful. Thank you so much once again.”
“It was nice to hear the perspectives of people from different backgrounds and professions, to learn from them, to be able to see things from their viewpoints. I was introduced to the historians’ perspective that I had not known or considered before. I learned from the other participants as well, which was also very nice.”
“Attending the summer school has been a great experience for me. I give thanks to our instructors and all participants.”
