Daniel

Daniel (Danil) is the first Russian traveler writer. Between 1106-1107, he visited a large part of Syria and the Levant region. He served as the archpriest in Chernigov, known as Little Russia. Daniel's narratives, which are also the most interesting parts, take place in Istanbul (Constantinople). In his journey to the Holy Land, he describes the Christian Jerusalem of that time, as well as the friendly relations between the Roman and Eastern churches. He depicts the state of the Palestinian lands in the Middle Ages in quite a detailed manner:

"Here is the road to Jerusalem. From Istanbul (Constantinople), it is 300 miles along the coastal road protruding into the great sea and 100 versts (Russian unit of measurement, verst = 10,668 meters) to the island of Petala.

This is the first island in the strait on this road, where the large city of Tekirdağ (Herakleia) with a very good harbor is located. Many holy saints are buried in this city. The island of Petala is 80 versts from Gelibolu, and from Gelibolu to the city of Abydos, it is 100 versts. The tomb of Saint Euthyme is located in this city.

From here, it is 20 versts to Crite, and then one reaches the great sea. The left side goes to Jerusalem, and the right side goes to the Holy Mountain in Thessaloniki and Rome. Crite to Tenedos (Bozcaada) is 20 miles. This is the first island in the great sea, and the tomb of Saint Avnoudimos is located here. On the opposite shore, there is a large city named Troas; Apostle Paul came here to bless all the lands. From Bozcaada (Tenedos) to the island of Midilli (Mitilene), it is 100 versts; the Metropolitan of Midilli is buried there." The left side goes to Jerusalem, and the right side goes to the Holy Mountain in Thessaloniki and Rome."