This ancient Turkish city, nestled in a fertile valley near Uludağ mountain, blends modern life with 13th-century BC roots. Home to historic mosques and lively shopping districts.
Bursa, Turkey's fourth-largest city, was the Ottoman Empire's first capital. The city sits at the base of Mount Uludağ, a popular ski resort in winter and hiking destination in summer. Bursa's rich history is evident in its mosques, such as the 20-domed Grand Mosque and the ornate Green Mosque. The city is known for its thermal baths, silk production, and local culinary specialties like Iskender kebab.
Key Sights in Bursa
The Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) stands as one of Bursa's most important landmarks. Built between 1396 and 1400, it exemplifies early Ottoman architecture with its 20 domes and intricate calligraphic decorations. Another significant site is the Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami), completed in 1421. This mosque marks the beginning of a distinctly Turkish architectural style and includes a theological college, library, and ablution fountain.
Bursa Castle, perched on a hill, provides panoramic views of the city. The well-preserved city walls tell the story of Bursa's past. For a glimpse into Ottoman daily life, visit Cumalıkızık village, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-maintained Ottoman-era houses.
Mount Uludağ: Four Seasons of Activity
Mount Uludağ, at 2,543 meters, dominates Bursa's skyline. In winter, it transforms into Turkey's main ski resort, with runs for beginners and experienced skiers alike. During summer, hikers and nature lovers explore its trails and scenic spots. Take the cable car from the city to the mountain for a memorable journey with sweeping views.
Thermal Baths and Hot Springs
Bursa's thermal baths have been in use since Roman times. The city has several historic hamams (Turkish baths) where you can experience this tradition. Popular options include Eski Kaplıca (Old Spring) and Yeni Kaplıca (New Spring). Many people believe these baths have healing properties for various conditions.
Local Cuisine
Try Iskender kebab, a dish that originated in Bursa. It consists of thinly sliced lamb served over pieces of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce, melted sheep butter, and yogurt. For dessert, sample Bursa's candied chestnuts (kestane şekeri). These sweets are made from locally grown chestnuts and are a local specialty.
Getting to Bursa
Bursa is about 150 kilometers from Istanbul. Take a ferry across the Sea of Marmara, which takes about 1.5 hours. Regular bus services run from Istanbul and other major Turkish cities. If you're arriving by air, Bursa Yenişehir Airport is about 50 kilometers from the city center.
Best Times to Visit
The ideal time to visit Bursa depends on your plans. For winter sports, come between December and March when snow covers Mount Uludağ. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) have mild weather suitable for exploring the city and outdoor activities. Summers can be warm, but this is a good time to visit the cooler mountain areas.
Historical Significance of Bursa
Bursa served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire from 1326 to 1365. This period significantly influenced the city's architecture and culture. The Ottomans built numerous mosques, külliye complexes (social centers), and other structures that remain standing today. These buildings demonstrate the early stages of Ottoman architectural style, which later spread throughout the empire.
