Discover Ottoman Heritage in Bursa — Where to Visit

Are you ready to discover the structures that witnessed the first steps of the Ottoman Empire in Bursa's historical center in one day? On this route I've prepared for you, we will visit four important stops in the heart of the city, arranged with walking distances in mind. Get ready, we are embarking on a journey through time into Bursa's deep history!

Bursa Grand Mosque

You can't come to Bursa and not see the Grand Mosque! This monumental mosque, built by Sultan Bayezid I, has become the symbol of the city with its 20 domes and two minarets. The tranquility you will feel when you step inside is one of the most talked-about aspects by visitors. The ablution fountain inside the mosque and the colossal calligraphy panels are truly worth seeing. You can spend approximately 1.5 hours in this magnificent structure, which has the largest indoor prayer area in Turkey.

Orhan Gazi Mosque

After the Grand Mosque, you can reach Orhan Gazi Mosque with a short walk. Built by Orhan Gazi in 1339, this mosque is one of Bursa's oldest places of worship and an early example of Ottoman architecture. The structure, which stands out with its zawiya-plan scheme, contains calligraphic works written in thirteen different script styles; don't forget to pay attention to the details. Visitors find the calligraphy art and careful lighting in the mosque's interior quite impressive. Approximately 1.5 hours will be sufficient here.

Haraççıoğlu Madrasah

After Orhan Gazi Mosque, as we walk towards the Hisar region, the 16th-century Ottoman structure Haraççıoğlu Madrasah will greet us. Today, it is operated as a cultural center by Osmangazi Municipality. The madrasah's restored courtyard and garden area are a great place for a quiet break in the city center. Visitors particularly emphasize its silent and peaceful atmosphere; it's perfect for a short breath from the busy city pace. You can enjoy about 1.5 hours here sipping a traditional Turkish coffee.

Orhan Gazi Tomb

The last stop on our route is Orhan Gazi Tomb, located within Tophane Park. This tomb, the final resting place of Orhan Gazi, the second sultan of the Ottoman Empire, was built in 1863 and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014. Inside the tomb, you can see the mother-of-pearl inlaid wooden sarcophagus. Visitors find the historical layering of the tomb being built on an 11th-century monastery site very interesting. Don't neglect to watch the panoramic view of Bursa from Tophane hill. You can also allocate 1.5 hours for this place.

When you finish this route reflecting the early Ottoman period in Bursa's historical heart, you will have felt the soul of the city. During your trip, you can find many traditional restaurants in the Tophane area or around the Grand Mosque and try Bursa's famous İskender kebab. Buses and trams are widely used for urban transportation, and all stops on this route are easily accessible on foot. Enjoy your trip!