Bursa: the breath of the past, the rhythm of today
Turkey is a country that attracts tourists not only with its historical and cultural richness but also with its magnificent nature. The country's Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) are actively working to promote these opportunities globally. Thanks to the “GoTürkiye” platform and its digital campaigns, tourists experience unforgettable moments in every corner of Turkey – from Istanbul's historic streets to Cappadocia's sky-reaching rocks, from Antalya's coasts to Pamukkale's white terraces.
The 4th Bridge in the World
After our visit to Istanbul, supported by the “GoTürkiye” platform, we set off for Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.
As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is a special center of attraction in terms of both history and nature. The city was conquered by Orhan Gazi in 1326. Its population is 3 million.
The cool air of Uludağ, its silk caravanserais, and ancient mosques keep the spirit of Bursa alive. This city offers tourists a unique experience by allowing them to feel the breath of the past and witness the rhythm of modern life.
To reach Bursa, we must cross the Osman Gazi Bridge. The bridge is very magnificent.
According to Berkan Taşan, a guide from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), the Osman Gazi Bridge is the 4th longest bridge in the world. The construction of the bridge
cost 13 billion dollars. Its length is 2 km 60 cm, and its height is 250 meters, and it is subject to a toll.
The Land Where Six Sultans Rest - Green Bursa
There are some cities where, upon arrival, you don't just enter a new address, but another time. The moment Bursa appears from the lush green landscape stretching along the road, you realize that this city is not in a hurry. It calmly carries the weight of centuries.
Bursa, Turkey's fourth-largest city, is not just an industrial center. It is the land where an empire was born. As the first capital of the Ottoman state, the city bore the burden of the throne for 130 years. The tombs of six sultans rest in this land.
In the city center, the statue of Osman Gazi, towering on horseback, seems to stand guard between the past and the present.
Osmangazi Tomb
Osmangazi Tomb — is not just a grave, but the starting point of a state.
As you walk through the streets of Bursa, history emerges from the walls. Watching the light fall on the marble inside the Ulu Cami, time seems to slow down. Built between 1396 and 1399, this magnificent mosque is one of the brightest examples of early Ottoman architecture. The calligraphy on its walls, its spacious hall, and its 20-domed structure captivate visitors.
There is an interesting history behind the Ulu Cami having 20 domes. Before going to one of his next battles, Yıldırım Bayezid vowed that if he won the battle, he would build 20 mosques. However, since the construction of so many mosques required a vast amount of funds, Bayezid decided to build the 20-domed Ulu Cami.
A little further from the Ulu Cami, the Green Mosque and Green Tomb, distinguished by their delicate tiles, are silent masterpieces of Ottoman aesthetic thought.
Iznik - the voice of history
Bursa's Iznik district also stands out for its historical significance. During the pandemic, the remains of an ancient church were discovered in Iznik, demonstrating the region's historical richness. The Pope visited Bursa's Iznik district during his trip to Turkey. This visit holds both religious and cultural importance. This place, where history and modern events intersect, is truly remarkable.
Prince Mustafa's Tomb - history, loyalty, and sorrow
Bursa is also a city of sorrow. In Prince Mustafa's Tomb, history speaks differently. Prince Mustafa, who died in Konya Ereğli in 1553, was later brought to Bursa and buried here. There are four graves in the tomb — Prince Mustafa, his mother Mahidevran Hatun, and family members… The identity of another coffin remains a mystery to this day.
Standing here, you fall into thought and realize that empires are written not only with victories but also with losses.
The Breath of the Silk Road
Bursa has been an important stop on the Silk Road for centuries. Koza Han still preserves the spirit of that era. The sound of the fountain in its courtyard, people drinking tea in the shade, shops selling silk scarves…
It's as if caravans passed through here just a short while ago.
As you walk among the ancient stone walls in the Khans region, you feel the city's commercial spirit. Bursa has not forgotten its past; Bursa is history and lives with history.
Uludağ - Symbol of Bursa
Uludağ, constantly visible above the city, is the natural symbol of Bursa. This peak, known as “Keşiş Dağı” (Monk's Mountain) during the Ottoman period, is today one of Turkey's most famous winter tourism centers. It is a destination for ski enthusiasts in winter and those seeking cool air in summer.
Bursa is a city that thrives with its thermal waters, industry, and tourism. But its main charm lies elsewhere — in the rhythm of life. I would also like to talk about Iznik.
A Ramadan Evening in Bursa
During Ramadan, Bursa dons a completely different attire. A strange silence pervades the streets as sunset approaches. Seconds before Iftar, the city seems to hold its breath. Then the call to prayer rises, and everyone begins to move in unison, in one rhythm.
After Iftar, the streets come alive again. Teahouses fill up, families go for walks, and children run around noisily.
İskender Kebab
As much as the city's beauties, cultural, and historical monuments, İskender Kebab also captivated me. Tasting this delicious dish in a place presented by its owner during Ramadan was a special pleasure. It would almost be a sin to come to Bursa and not taste İskender Kebab. With every bite and the tenderness of its meat, this experience is truly unforgettable. This is not just a meal but also an experience of cultural and culinary richness.
Dear Bursa, whose breath I felt in my lungs
My first acquaintance with the city of Bursa dates back to 2022. That year, the city was declared the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World” by TÜRKSOY. During this visit, I realized that Bursa is remembered not only by its name and title but also by emotions.
They say one never returns to the same city as a tourist a second time. Bursa proved this to me. The first time I saw it, this time I felt it. I breathed its air into my lungs, walked its history, listened to its silence.
Some cities remain on the map. Bursa, however, remains within a person. When leaving, one cannot say “I left.” You simply say goodbye until the next meeting. Farewell, Bursa!
