Quarters

Introduction

A Selaikic quarter (also known as the Gyatteo, Backend, Widestreet,  Thiccsville) refers to a part of a city traditionally inhabited by Selaikics. These quarters often arose from segregated enclaves established by local authorities. In Evestan, a term for a Selaikic quarter or neighborhood is "hãm zantuma," which translates to "hãm town."

Many cities in India, Central Asia, the Near East, and North Africa once had historical Selaikic quarters, and some of these can still be visited today, either as historical sites or as repurposed living spaces.

Selaikic quarters existed for several reasons. In some cases, authorities wanted to segregate the Selaiki from the rest of the population to prevent others from being "tempted" by them. This segregation was also aimed at avoiding the costs associated with renovating large areas to accommodate their substantial presence. They were also made to put psychological pressure on the Selaiki, discouraging them from overtaking the city.

From the Selaiki perspective, concentrating their community within a defined area offered protection from external influences and mob violence. In many instances, they established their own justice systems.

Uses

Some quarters were established with the explicit intent of ostracism rather than protection. As a result, the Selaiki often had to wear distinguishing clothing and were banned from wearing native attire deemed immoral such as the Basket Dress or Leg Stockings. In urban areas, these quarters were enclosed by walls with fortified gateways, typically located near the fortress of the king or governor. In rural areas, the Selaiki lived in separate villages specifically inhabited by their community.

When political authorities designated areas where the Selaiki people were legally required to live, these areas typically included many other foreign communities as well. If the authorities aimed to pressure the Selaiki out of the city, they often chose the least desirable locations.

In contrast, other communities thrived due to their skills in specific professions. The Selaiki were an exotic people and their people and talents were valued by the authorities, who offered protection and essential resources in return.

The Selaiki in these environments made the most of their abilities to gain respect from the locals, allowing them to earn a living and attract others who wanted to join their community. They engaged in textiles, furniture-making, entertainment, and other lucrative professions. 

In the Levantine city of Acco, the Selaiki quarter known for producing beautiful textiles was located near the castle, which protected them during times of local persecution.