The great road axis built by the Romans to connect the Adriatic with the Propontis and the Black Sea was largely rendered useless with the descent of the Slavs into the Southern Balkans (7th-9th century). It regained its functionality in the 14th century during the expansion of the Ottomans into southeastern Europe.

The latter were immediately interested in imposing their control over this important road artery. During the period of Ottoman rule and until about the end of the 16th century, the Via Egnatia and its crossings served as routes for troops, for the transportation of goods, and even for the circulation of religious and cultural movements.

As the city of Thessaloniki was the main hub along the Via Egnatia, several of the texts are dedicated to this city. The volume includes the announcements made at the Second International Turkology Conference, which was organized by the Institute of Mediterranean Studies in January 1994.