Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire during the time 1335 to 1413. The city dates back to the 4000BC and was at the heart of the old silk road. Today it is the 4th largest city in Turkey and well known for its textiles and of course as Turkeys centre for silk production.
The city is known as Green Bursa, because of its many parks and Ula Dag. a mountain that overlooks the city. In the winter months Uladag is frequented by winter sports enthusiasts for skiing and snowboarding.
One of the most important contributions to Turkish culture is the Karagöz and Hacivat shadow theater which came from Bursa during the 17th century. Based on real life characters who lived and died in Bursa the puppets are now famous through Turkey!
Many people visit Bursa for its famous mosques, Ula Cammii or the Great Mosque, and the Yesil Camii or Green Mosque so named because of its green-blue tiles. Behind the mosque is the Green Tomb. Also worth visiting is the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum. The mausoleums of the early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and some of the landmarks include buildings throughout the Ottoman Erea. Bursa is also famous for its thermal baths, and above the city in the suburb of Cekirge. Here guests have the chance to stay in one of the many spa hotels, relax, have a massage and visit an Hamam.
In a word – Silk. As part of the silk road from ancient days Bursa has a marvelous bazaar. the Kapali Carsi. In the Bazaar and around its narrow streets there are many shops and hans. namely Ipek Han (Ipek is the name for silk in Turksih, Koza Han and Emir han to name a couple. Here you can buy beautiful silk scarves, clothing, cushions, throws and a myriad of other products.
Iskander Kebab comes from Bursa and you cannot leave the city without tasting the real home grown variety. Many local restaurants around Turkey serve Iskender Kebab by the original and best is made in Bursa. Also try the traditional candied chestnuts (kestane sekeri) which are readily on sale.
