Bursa | Turkey

Bursa is a historic city located in the northwestern part of Turkey, near the Sea of Marmara and at the foot of the Uludağ Mountain. It is the fourth-largest city in Turkey and has played a significant role in the country’s history, particularly during the Ottoman Empire period. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, natural beauty, and as a center of textile production, Bursa is often referred to as the "City of Yesil" (Green City) because of its abundant parks and gardens. It also stands as one of Turkey's key historical and industrial hubs.

Geography and Location

Bursa lies in the Marmara Region of Turkey, just south of Istanbul. It is bordered by the Uludağ Mountains to the south, which are famous for skiing in the winter months. The city is located about 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Istanbul and is an important connection point between Istanbul and the interior of Turkey.

Climate: Bursa has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The proximity to Uludağ Mountain means that the city experiences cooler temperatures than the surrounding areas, and the mountain brings snowfall in winter, making Bursa a popular winter sports destination.

History

Bursa’s history spans thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. The city became one of the most important centers of the Ottoman Empire in its early years and is home to numerous Ottoman architectural landmarks.

Ancient and Byzantine History: Bursa was originally known as Prusa in ancient times and was founded by King Prusias I of Bithynia in the 2nd century BCE. The city became part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. During the Byzantine period, Bursa was an important center for trade and culture.

Ottoman Era: Bursa holds particular significance as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire after its founding by Osman I in the 14th century. The city flourished during this time, and many important Ottoman mosques, tombs, and palaces were built here. The Ottomans moved their capital to Edirne and later to Istanbul, but Bursa remained an important center of Ottoman culture and industry, especially in silk production and trade.

Modern Day: Today, Bursa is a modern city that retains much of its Ottoman charm. It has grown into a hub of industry, particularly known for its textile and automobile industries.

Key Features and Attractions

Uludağ National Park:

Uludağ, also known as Mount Olympus of Mysia, is the highest mountain in western Anatolia, standing at 2,543 meters (8,343 feet). The Uludağ National Park is a popular destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. In the winter, the mountain becomes a skiing and snowboarding resort, while in the summer, it’s ideal for hiking and enjoying the lush pine forests and breathtaking views.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife and flora, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism.

Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii):

The Grand Mosque is one of the most significant landmarks in Bursa and is a prime example of early Ottoman architecture. Built between 1396 and 1399, the mosque is known for its large size, impressive architecture, and 20 domes. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful calligraphy, intricate tile work, and the spacious prayer hall. The mosque is also famous for its two minarets, which stand as a symbol of the city.

Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii):

The Green Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, built in the early 15th century. It is part of a larger complex that includes a tomb, imaret (soup kitchen), and a medrese (Islamic school). The mosque is named for the green tiles that adorn its interior, which add a unique touch to its stunning design. The surrounding Yeşil Türbe (Green Tomb) is the burial place of Sultan Chin Ali.

Koza Han:

The Koza Han is a historical silk market dating back to the 15th century, located in the heart of Bursa’s old town. It was originally constructed as a place for silk traders to meet and do business. The Han is still an active marketplace, and visitors can purchase traditional silk products such as scarves, shawls, and clothing. It’s a great place to experience Bursa’s legacy as a center of silk production.

Bursa City Museum:

The Bursa City Museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s long history, from its Roman and Byzantine roots to its role as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. The museum features exhibits on the city’s architecture, industry, and cultural heritage, as well as displays on traditional crafts, such as silk weaving.

Tombs of the Ottoman Sultans:

Bursa is home to several Ottoman tombs, particularly in the area of Yesil. These include the tombs of Sultan Mehmed I, Sultan Orhan, and other early Ottoman sultans. The tombs are notable for their beautiful tilework and stunning architecture, reflecting the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire at its peak.

Cumalıkızık Village:

Cumalıkızık is a traditional Ottoman village located just outside of Bursa. The village is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman houses, cobblestone streets, and traditional wooden structures. Walking through the village is like stepping back in time, and visitors can experience the charm of rural life during the Ottoman period. Local delicacies such as kiymali börek (meat-filled pastry) can be enjoyed in one of the village's quaint cafes.

Bursa Archaeology Museum:

The Bursa Archaeology Museum is another significant cultural institution in the city, showcasing the ancient history of the region. The museum exhibits a variety of artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, including sculptures, inscriptions, and pottery.

Bursa Cable Car (Teleferik):

The Bursa Cable Car takes visitors from the city center to the top of Uludağ Mountain. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of Bursa and the surrounding landscape. It is a great way to access the Uludağ National Park, where visitors can enjoy skiing in winter or hiking in summer.

Bursa's Thermal Springs:

Bursa has long been known for its thermal springs, which have been used since Roman times. The most famous of these is the Çekirge Thermal Baths, which offer relaxing spa treatments and hot mineral water baths. The baths are said to have healing properties, and the thermal water has been a part of the city's wellness culture for centuries.

Culture and Traditions

Bursa is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its music, art, and festivals.

Silk Weaving: Bursa has a long tradition of silk weaving, and visitors can still find silk shops in the city’s markets, particularly in Koza Han. The city was once known as the Silk Capital of the Ottoman Empire.

Bursa Cuisine: The cuisine of Bursa is famous for its Iskender kebab, a delicious dish made from thinly sliced lamb served with tomato sauce, yogurt, and butter-soaked pita bread. Other local specialties include cantık (a type of pastry) and pideli köfte (meatball-filled bread).

Bursa Karagöz and Hacivat: Bursa is the birthplace of the traditional shadow play known as Karagöz and Hacivat, which has been performed for centuries. The characters Karagöz (the simple man) and Hacivat (the intelligent man) represent the comedic duo that engages in witty dialogue and humor.

Economy

Bursa is one of Turkey’s key industrial cities, known for its textile, automobile, and machinery industries. The city is home to some of Turkey’s largest textile factories, and it is also a major center for the production of silk. Additionally, the city is an important hub for the automobile industry, with companies like Tofas manufacturing cars.

Transportation

Bursa is easily accessible by road, air, and sea.

By Air: Bursa’s Yenisehir Airport is located about 50 km (31 miles) from the city center and offers both domestic and international flights. However, Istanbul Airport is also a popular entry point, given its proximity.

By Bus: Bursa is well-connected by bus to major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The Bursa Bus Station is a central hub for intercity travel.

By Car: Renting a car is a popular way to explore the city and surrounding areas, as it allows flexibility for visiting nearby sites such as Uludağ and Cumalıkızık.

Public Transport: Bursa has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and dolmuş (shared taxis).

Conclusion

Bursa is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its Ottoman-era landmarks and stunning architecture to its lush landscapes and modern amenities, the city offers a unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re exploring its historic mosques and tombs, enjoying the natural beauty of Uludağ Mountain, or savoring the city’s famous cuisine, Bursa offers an unforgettable travel experience.