Hayme Ana Tomb is the tomb of Hayme Ana, mother of Ertuğrul Gazi, built by Abdülhamid II in 1886, located in Çarşamba Village, Domaniç district of Kütahya.
Hayme Ana was the grandmother of Osman Gazi and the mother of Ertuğrul Gazi. She was a woman who prevented the Kayı Tribe from dispersing after Süleyman Shah's death and led her tribe for a long time. She is known as Devlet Ana (Mother of the State) in Turkish history. She would go up to the Domaniç plateaus in summer with her tribe and descend to Söğüt in winter. She spent the end of her life in Çarşamba Village.
Ertuğrul Gazi first built an open grave for his mother where she passed away. The current tomb, however, was built much later, in 1886, by order of Abdülhamid II. The Sultan had Hayme Ana's grave found and erected this structure as a debt of gratitude. The tomb is not architecturally ostentatious; most visitors come here not to see a monument, but to pay their respects.
A common point highlighted in comments is the tranquility of the place. Since it is on a lesser-known route, it is not crowded; some people stumble upon it by chance while passing through Domaniç and take a break. Every year on the last Sunday of September, Hayme Ana Commemoration and Migration Festivals are held around the tomb. Shows and commemorative events related to Yörük culture come together on this day.
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Guide's Note
Who is Hayme Ana?
Hayme Ana was the grandmother of Osman Gazi and the mother of Ertuğrul Gazi. She was a woman who led the Kayı Tribe and kept it together during the period when it was in danger of dispersing after Süleyman Shah's death. For this reason, she is known as Devlet Ana (Mother of the State) in Turkish history. She lived a nomadic life with her tribe, going up to the Domaniç plateaus in summer and descending to Söğüt-Bilecik in winter.
The Story and Construction of the Tomb
When Hayme Ana passed away in Çarşamba Village of Domaniç, Ertuğrul Gazi had an open grave built for his mother. The tomb structure we see today emerged much later, in 1886, when Abdülhamid II had the grave found and built the tomb over it. Thus, the tomb was built centuries after the establishment of the Ottoman Empire as a debt of gratitude.
How to Get There?
It is possible to reach Domaniç district from Kütahya city center by vehicles operated by Domaniç Municipality. After arriving at Domaniç center, the journey continues to Çarşamba Village by road. This road is rural and can be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter. If you are going by your own vehicle, simply follow the Domaniç signs.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
The tomb itself is small and simple, and a visit is completed within 30-45 minutes. For those who want to visit the district center as well, half a day is sufficient. It is also a short stop for those passing through from Bursa.
Things to Pay Attention To
A frequently mentioned point in comments is the cleanliness of the restrooms around the tomb. Some visitors have expressed their discomfort regarding this, so it might be more comfortable to take care of your needs in Domaniç center. Since the tomb is a spiritual place of visit, it is important to behave quietly and respectfully.
Hayme Ana Festivals
Every year on the last Sunday of September, Hayme Ana Commemoration and Migration Festivals are held around the tomb. On this day, the people of Domaniç commemorate Hayme Ana with prayers at her tomb, and shows related to Yörük culture are performed. It offers both a historical and cultural experience for those visiting the region during those dates.
Nearby Places to Visit
Domaniç and its surroundings are known for natural spots such as Ebe Çamlığı City Forest, Ilıcaksu Sarıkız Recreation Area, and Dereli Hot Springs. Visitors to Hayme Ana Tomb usually include it as a short stop on this route. It is more logical to add it to a regional tour rather than planning a full day just for it.
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