BURSA: First Capital of Ottoman Empire
Known as ‘Green Bursa’, this province stands on the lower slopes of Uludag (Mount Olympos of Mysia, 2543 m). The title ‘Green’ of Bursa comes from its gardens and parks, and of course from its being in the middle of an important fruit growing region.
In Bursa, there are things you should not miss. First of all you are in the homeland of the delicious Iskender Kebap. The candied chestnuts are a specialty and have an unforgettable taste. The peaches of Bursa are unique. As for something to purchase; Bursa is a center of the silk trade and towel manufacturing. It is also the homeland of the very famous Turkish folklore figures, Karagoz and Hacivat.
Because of its being the first Ottoman capital, Bursa is very rich in religious monuments, mosques, tombs, and baths. One of the places to be seen in Bursa is the Green Mosque, with its carved marble doorway which is one of the best in Anatolia. It is an elaborate and significant building in the new Turkish style. Just opposite, is the Green Tomb, set in a green garden with an enchanting exterior decorated with turquoise tiles. Near the tomb, the Madrassa complements the others and makes this the ‘green’ trio, now it houses the Ethnographical Museum which certainly deserves visiting. The Yildirim Beyazit Mosque is important as it is the first one built in the new Ottoman style and is accompanied by the Emir Sultan Mosque which lies in a peaceful setting.
Discover the grandeur of the Ulu Mosque
The province is decorated with these monuments each of which is a masterpiece. Here are the Ulu Mosque built in the Seljuk style, with impressive calligraphic wall decorations; the Orhan Gazi Mosque; the ‘Hisar’ an attractive part of the province, and in the park the Mausoleums of Osman Gazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire, and his son Orhan Gazi. The Muradiye Complex has a delightful view with its mosque and tombs of important characters from the Ottoman era and their tiles and charming decorations appeal to the sightseers. The Ottoman Museum offers a lively exhibit of the traditional life style of Ottomans.
Something you will enjoy in Bursa is the warm, mineral-rich springs; indeed most of the hotels in this province have thermal bath facilities. The Turkish baths ‘hammam’ are great places which should be visited. The Eski Kaplica (Old Spring) is the oldest in the province. The Karamustafa Pasha Baths are famous, and boast the best hot, mineral waters.
As for souvenirs, you should visit the Covered Bazaar, “Bedesten”, or the Koza Han – an attractive building and also a center of silk trade. It is certain that Bursa will take some time to see and add some more delightful experiences to your memories.
Uludag is the largest and most celebrated winter sports center in Turkey. It is 36 km from Bursa and easily accessible by car or cable-car. The area is also a national park and is worth visiting at any time of the year. The accommodation is high quality offering the opportunity to enjoy, with a variety of entertainment and sports activities.