Eskişehir's Heart Odunpazarı: History and Art in 1 Day

If you're spending a day in Eskişehir, it makes the most sense to turn your route towards Odunpazarı, the historical heart of the city. This region, bearing traces of the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, offers a 5-stop tour full of colorful houses, stone streets, and traditional handicrafts.

Odunpazarı Historic City Center

Located at a point overlooking the Eskişehir Plain, this is the starting point of the city. Odunpazarı takes you to another time with its narrow stone streets and Ottoman-era wooden houses, which have been revived through successful restorations. Visitors highly appreciate the aesthetics of the houses here and the general atmosphere of the region. Many important stops such as Kurşunlu Mosque, Meerschaum Museum, and Atlıhan Handicrafts Bazaar are also located within this center. You should allocate at least 1-1.5 hours to explore this area.

Kurşunlu Mosque and Complex

Located in the Paşa Neighborhood of Odunpazarı, this complex is a strong Ottoman structure dating back to the 16th century. The complex, consisting of a mosque, madrasah, imaret, inn, and fountain, is the most beautiful example of classical architecture in Eskişehir. Especially the glass workshop and souvenir shops are a good option for those who want to shop in a historical setting. Its courtyard is very peaceful and ideal for resting. Approximately 1.5 hours will be sufficient for the complex.

Atlıhan Handicrafts Bazaar

Again, right in the middle of Odunpazarı's historical fabric, this inn, dating back to the 1850s, keeps traditional handicrafts alive. It is full of meerschaum works, ceramic, and glass workshops. Here you can watch masters processing meerschaum and buy a special handmade product for yourself or your loved ones. The authentic courtyard of the bazaar is also a great place for taking photos. You can allocate 1-1.5 hours for this place as well.

Alaeddin Mosque

Located in Odunpazarı, Alaeddin Mosque is one of the oldest places of worship in the city, belonging to the Anatolian Seljuk period. It stands out with its historical texture and calm atmosphere. It is thought to have been built during the reign of Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev III or Alaeddin Keykubad I, meaning it dates from the mid-13th century. The peaceful environment inside the mosque and its historical garden are ideal for a short break. A half-hour visit will be sufficient.

Reşadiye Mosque

Rising on Reşadiye Street in the center of Odunpazarı, this mosque is an Ottoman structure that leaves its mark on the city's skyline. It was first built in 1916 by Sultan Mehmed V Reşad, then demolished and rebuilt between 1969-1978. It attracts attention with its two magnificent minarets and its dome inspired by the New Mosque in Istanbul. The area around the mosque is also quite lively; you can finish your tour here and look at the surrounding shops. Allocate approximately 1 hour.

After completing your tour in Odunpazarı, you will find many restaurants where you can taste traditional Eskişehir delicacies. Especially don't leave without trying çiğ börek and met helvası. Since all stops are within walking distance, you won't need public transportation. I wish you a pleasant day!