The Kyrgyz Tombs, a 14th-century structure located near Iznik's Yenişehir Gate, were built in memory of the Kyrgyz Turks who were martyred during the Seljuk conquest of Iznik. With its two-square-room architecture built with cut stone and brick, it represents a typical example of Anatolian Turkish tomb architecture of its period.
Standing just near the Yenişehir Gate in Iznik district of Bursa, the Kyrgyz Tombs are one of the region's most interesting and lesser-known historical structures. The tomb is known by many different names such as Camasa, Kırkkızlar, Reyhan, Hacı Camadan, and Yedi Kardeşler. This variety shows that the structure has been interpreted and embraced in different ways by the local people over centuries. It is rumored to have been built in memory of the Kyrgyz Turks who fought shoulder to shoulder with the Seljuk army and were martyred during the Seljuk conquest of Iznik.
The structure consists of two square rooms of similar size, extending in a north-south direction. Inside, there are seven large sarcophagi and one child's sarcophagus. The construction technique, which combines cut stone and brick, reflects the characteristic features of Anatolian Turkish architecture of the period. It is not precisely known by whom and in exactly which year the tomb was built; however, one source states that it was built by Orhan Gazi in 1331. In both cases, the structure dates back to the 14th century.
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Guide's Note
The Kyrgyz Tombs are a historical structure located just outside the Iznik city walls, near the Yenişehir Gate. They were built by Orhan Gazi in 1331 in memory of the Kyrgyz Turks who lost their lives during the conquest of Iznik. Constructed with cut stone and brickwork, the structure is considered a unique example of early period architecture. Inside, there are a total of eight sarcophagi, seven belonging to adults and one to a child.
Visitors generally appreciate the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the tomb, describing it as a worthwhile stop due to its historical and human significance. The statue in the garden is also among the interesting elements. Unlike many historical structures in Iznik that are in ruins, this place is said to leave a more complete impression.
However, it is worth noting some points highlighted by visitors:
- The gate has occasionally been found closed; visitors have reported having to view it from the outside. It is recommended to confirm if it is open before visiting.
- One visitor mentions having a negative impression regarding neglect.
- An observation regarding the flag arrangement inside has also been shared: it is stated that Turkish and Kyrgyz flags were previously displayed side by side, but later only the Kyrgyz flag was left.
About the Kyrgyz Tombs
The Kyrgyz Tombs stand within the historical walled fabric of Iznik, close to the Yenişehir Gate. Dating back to the 14th century, the structure was erected in memory of the Kyrgyz Turks who were martyred during the Seljuk conquest of Iznik. The tomb is known by multiple names such as Camasa, Kırkkızlar, Reyhan, Hacı Camadan, and Yedi Kardeşler; this indicates how deeply the structure is embedded in the local collective memory.
Inside, there are seven large sarcophagi and one child's sarcophagus. The plan scheme, consisting of two square rooms extending in a north-south direction, is a typical example of Anatolian Turkish tomb architecture of the period. The combined use of cut stone and brick has given the structure both robustness and a unique texture.
Historical Background
It is not precisely known by whom the tomb was built; some sources suggest it was constructed by Orhan Gazi in 1331. This date coincides with the period when Iznik was conquered by the Ottomans. This tomb, serving as a concrete trace of the presence of Kyrgyz Turks in Anatolia during the Seljuk period, bears the marks of both the Seljuk and early Ottoman eras.
The fact that the structure is known by multiple names indicates that it was embraced by different communities in different periods. Especially names like Yedi Kardeşler (Seven Siblings) and Kırkkızlar (Forty Girls) show how rich the local legends and oral tradition related to the structure are.
When to Visit?
The best time to visit Iznik is between April–June and September–November. During these months, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold; you will feel much more comfortable while walking along the Iznik Lake shore or exploring the city walls. In mid-summer, Iznik can be quite hot; it's a good idea to prefer early morning hours for open-air sites like the tomb.
The Kyrgyz Tombs are a structure that can be easily visited on the same day along with other historical sites in Iznik. Especially creating a route that includes the Iznik City Walls, Hagia Sophia, and Orhan Mosque will allow you to use your time efficiently.
How to Get There?
The most practical way to reach Iznik is via Bursa. From Bursa's Mudanya pier, there is a ferry and then minibus connection to Iznik. From Bursa city center, regular bus services operate to Iznik; the journey takes approximately 1.5–2 hours.
Once you arrive in Iznik, the Kyrgyz Tombs are located near the Yenişehir Gate, so you can easily reach them on foot or by a short taxi ride. Iznik is a small district with many historical structures within walking distance, so it can be comfortably explored without renting a car.
Suggested Itinerary in Iznik
You can spend a full day in Iznik by combining the Kyrgyz Tombs with other important sites. You can start by visiting the Iznik City Walls and the Istanbul Gate in the early morning, then visit the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Orhan Mosque. After lunch, visiting the Iznik Museum and then proceeding to the Kyrgyz Tombs makes for a logical sequence. Ending the day by the shore of Iznik Lake is both relaxing and a beautiful conclusion.
Photo Spots
In photos taken from outside the tomb, the texture created by the cut stone and brick, along with the simple mass of the structure, stands out. Close-up shots offer interesting frames of the details of the stone craftsmanship and the general appearance of the sarcophagi. Wide-angle photos framed with the Yenişehir Gate also reflect the structure's position within Iznik's historical city walls.
In the morning hours, the light is softer, making the texture and play of shadows on the stone surfaces much more pronounced. Harsh sunlight in the middle of the day can create too much contrast on stone structures.
What to Eat? Where to Eat?
Despite being a small district, Iznik stands out with its unique flavors. Iznik olives and olive oil appetizers have an indispensable place on the region's tables. Fresh lake fish can also be found in restaurants along the Iznik Lake shore. After visiting the tomb, it is also possible to take a tea break at small cafes around the Yenişehir Gate.
Practical Information for Visitors
As the tomb is a religious and historical structure, respectful behavior is expected during the visit. Since there are sarcophagi inside the structure, it is advisable to be careful when taking photos and moving around. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the ground may be uneven. There is no large parking lot or facility around the tomb; leaving your car in Iznik center and walking is a more practical solution.
Confirming whether it is open from a local source or the Iznik Museum before your visit will help you avoid surprises.
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