Bursa, Turkey
Bursa is a province in western Turkey, along the Sea of Marmara. Its adjacent provinces are Balikesir
to the west, Kutahya to the south, Bilecik and Sakarya to the east, Kocaeli to the northeast and Yalova
to the north. The province has an area of 11,087 kmē and a population of 2,125,140 according to the 2000
census. In 1990 it had a population of 1,603,137. The population per kmē is 191.68. The traffic code is 16.
The city of Bursa was the capital of the Ottoman State until the conquest of Edirne.
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 it's 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 Kebab". 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 centre 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, and tombs (turbes), baths. One of the places to be seen in Bursa is the Yesil Mosque (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 Yesil Tomb "Green Tomb", set in a green garden with an enchanting exterior decorated with turquoise tiles. Near the tomb, the Medresse 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. 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, 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 "hamam" are great places, which should be visited in Bursa. The Eski Kaplica (Old Spring) is the oldest in the province. The Kara Mustafa 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 centre of silk trade. It is certain that Bursa will take some of time for you to see and add some more delightful experiences to your memories.