Dede Korkut Monumental Wall

The structure is part of the permanent works program initiated in 2013 when Eskişehir was chosen as the Cultural Capital of the Turkish World. It was built inside Dede Korkut Park in Odunpazarı and has been open to visitors since 2014.

Both surfaces of the wall are covered with tile panels depicting the 12 stories from the Book of Dede Korkut. The technique used is based on the Iznik tile tradition; miniature and calligraphy art are also incorporated into the composition. The texts of the epics are located in the lower section of the facades. So, you can follow both the visuals and the text as you walk along the wall.

The selsebil and water curtains on the front facade distinguish the structure from other monuments. It is stated to be the first example in Turkey to use tile art and water architecture together on this scale.

Spring and autumn months are the most comfortable periods in terms of both weather and park atmosphere. In mid-summer, standing in the open area for a long time during midday can be tiring; 09:00–11:00 AM or after 4:00 PM can be preferred.

Pay attention to the evening hours: visitor comments particularly emphasize that the park's lighting is insufficient. If you want to see the tile details and calligraphic writings clearly, go during daylight.

You can reach Dede Korkut Park by taking the tram towards Osmangazi University on the Eskişehir tram line. The park is in Sümer Mahallesi, Odunpazarı district; close to the city center.

If you come by car, street parking is available around the park, but finding a spot can be difficult during busy hours. The tram is more practical.

To capture the entire wall in a single frame, a wide-angle shot from a distance is needed; the 46-meter structure doesn't fit up close. For details of the tile panels, a close-up shot is more effective.

The selsebil and water curtains create an interesting foreground, especially when the water is flowing. The morning light illuminates the east facade of the wall, and the afternoon light illuminates the west facade; you can adjust your timing according to which facade you want to photograph.

Dede Korkut Park is within walking distance of Odunpazarı's historic wooden house texture. After visiting the monumental wall, moving on to the Odunpazarı district is a logical continuation; the historic mansions and bazaar area are nearby.

The park also has a walking track, exercise equipment, and children's playgrounds. If you are going with children, visiting the park first and then focusing on the monumental wall provides a more balanced visit.

In the evening, park lighting is insufficient; visitors state that they use the exercise equipment and playgrounds in the dark. Be careful during visits after sunset.

There are comments about mosquito problems in the summer months. As it is an open-air area, such discomforts vary by season; you can prepare accordingly.

There are cafe options within the park. If you go to the Odunpazarı district, you can find various cafes and local eateries in the bazaar. Eskişehir's unique çiğbörek and pişi are easily found in this district.