Bursa

The earliest known human settlement near Bursa’s current location was around 5200 BC. Prucias I, the King of Bithynia rebuilt the city and named it Prusa in the 3rd century BC. Bursa became the first major capital city of the early Ottoman Empire following its capture from the Byzantines in 1326. Bursa boasts natural beauty, rich history and culture.

Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque)

Refered to by Evliya Çelebi as the Saint Sophia of Bursa, the Grand Mosque is one of the most sacred places among all islamic art, although it is little known. Two massive minarets augment the 20 small domes.The mimber boasts fine wood carvings, and the walls feature intricate calligraphy. The lead characters of the traditional Turkish shadow play, Karagöz and Hacivat, are known to have worked in its construction.

Yeşil Türbe (Green Tomb)

Despite its name, the tomb is not green, it has the most beautiful turquoise colour in the world and it is a masterpiece of the tile art in existence today. The tomb is set amidst cypresses on top of the hill in Yeşil neighborhood in Bursa.

Kapalı Çarşı (Covered Bazaar)

Served as on of the capitals during the Ottoman era, Bursa was considered a trading center. Its inns, spas, castles and mosques preserve the smell of history. Today; the Covered Bazaar, Bursa's trading and shopping vitrine, has not lost its historical image. It is a much-sought-after bazaar housing 130 shops.

Koza Han

Koza Han is a historic, multilevel silk market known for its Ottoman-era architecture and variety of retailers where Citizens of Bursa enjoy a peaceful tea drinking time.

Saltanat Kapısı (Imperial Gate)

Located in Tophane, Bursa’s historic quarter, the Imperial Gate was the gateway to Bursa for the Ottomans. The Imperial Gate that endured until today and which still draws attention with its might, has been preserved in its natural state without much restoration since the century it was constructed. Ottoman janissary music and light shows on Fridays make you feel like you rule over three continents.

Tophane

Tophane Park with its majestic plane trees provides the backdrop to the panorama of the city. Tophane Park also houses the Tomb of Osman Ghazi, the Tomb of Orhan Ghazi and the Clock Tower. Tophane hosts cannon firing during Ramadan and the number of citizens who wait for the sound of the cannon to break their fast still remain high.