Bursa is one of the rare provinces that has been the cradle of many civilizations and their religions since BC. Many artifacts belonging to the religions of Islam, Christianity and Judaism are still standing and under protection. In particular, 8 of the council meetings, which started in 324 A.D. and convened 17 times until 1563 and were very important for the Christian religion, were held in our country, and the 1st and 7th of them were held in Iznik. Iznik is one of the 8 sacred pilgrimage centers in our country and the most important one for the Christian religion.
- Area :11.043 km²
- Population : 3.214.571 (2024)
- Provincial Traffic No :16
Table of Contents
BURSA PHOTOS
DON’T RETURN;
- Without seeing Cumalıkızık,
- Without skiing in Uludag,
- Without visiting the Inns,
- Without visiting the hot springs,
- Iskender kebab, Kemalpaşa dessert and chestnut candy,
- Without buying Bursa silk
Bursa Provinces
The districts of Bursa are Nilüfer, Yıldırım, Osman Gazi, Büyük Orhan, Gemlik, Gürsu, Harmancık, İnegöl, İznik, Karacabey, Kales, Kestel, Mudanya, Mustafa Kemal Paşa, Orhaneli, Orhangazi and Yenişehir.
Gemlik :30 km. northwest of Bursa. was established on the shore of the gulf of the same name. Kurşunlu, Küçük Kumla, Büyük Kumla, Karacaali, which are connected to Gemlik, are the coasts where summer tourism is intense.
Inegol :Inegol, located 454 km southeast of Bursa, was known as Ankedoma in ancient times. Important historical artifacts in the district date from the Ottoman period.
İshak Pasha Mosque and Complex built by Grand Vizier İshak Pasha in 1481, Hamza Bey Mosque, Yıldırım Mosque (Friday Mosque), Kurşunlu Mosque, Kurşunlu Han and Ortaköy Caravanserai are historical monuments in İnegöl. Geyikli Baba Tomb, built by Orhan Bey on behalf of Germiyanoğlu Geyik Baba and Balım Sultan, who lived in the XIVth century in Sultan village, 13 km west of İnegöl, is an important place to visit. Boğazova Plateau, Arabaoturağı Plateau, Alaçam Plateau, historical sycamores are the natural beauties of İnegöl.
Karacabey : Karacabey district, located 65 km west of Bursa, was known as Mihaliç in ancient times. The main historical monuments of the city are the Great Mosque built by Sultan Murat I, the Karacabey Mosque (Imaret Mosque) built by Karaca Bey in 1457 and the Issız Han, an Ottoman period building on the Karacabey-Bursa road and on the shore of Uluabat.
Keles :Keles district, which is located on the southern foothills of Uludağ, has Bithynia, Roman and Byzantine ruins. It came under Ottoman rule in the XIVth century. The most important historical structure of the district is the Yakup Çelebi Complex consisting of a mosque, bath and madrasah built by Yakup Çelebi of Sultan Yıldırım Bayezid.
Kelesin Kocayayla is a unique piece of nature for camping and trekking. Kocasu river has favorable conditions for rafting.
Mudanya :Located 25 km northwest of Bursa and on the coast of the Marmara Sea, Mudanya is the pier of Bursa. Çanaklıçeşme is the most well-known day trip place around Mudanya, where summer tourism is intense with its clean air.
The most beautiful Ottoman houses are in Mudanya. The most important of these houses is Tahir Pasha Mansion.
Mustafakemalpaşa :The old name of the district, which has been the scene of various settlements since ancient times, is Kirmastı. There is the ruins of Miletopolis nearby. In the district center, Lala Şahin Tomb, Hamzabey Mosque and Tomb, Şeyhmüftü Mosque and Tomb, as well as Dorak Treasures region, Kestelek Ruins are historical places worthy of attention. Suuçtu Waterfall near Muradiye Sarnıç village and Suçıktı promenade in Söğütalan district are unique wonders around Mustafakemalpaşa.
Yenişehir :Yenişehir, located 45 km east of Bursa, was known as Neopolis in ancient times. The district, which joined the Ottoman lands during the reign of Osman Gazi, was given as a homeland by Osman Gazi to his veterans under the name of sword right. The city established in the place opened to settlement took the name Yenişehir.
In Yenişehir, which has rich historical artifacts from the Ottoman period, the Palace Bath, which remains from the palace built by Osman Gazi, Postinpuş Baba Zaviye dating from the reign of Murad I, Voyvoda Mosque (Çınarlı Mosque) built in the XIVth century, Koca Sinan Pasha Complex built in the XVI. century, Koca Sinan Pasha Complex, Bali Bey Mosque, Great Mosque built by Orhan Bey, Süleyman Pasha Complex, Double Bath built by Deli Hüseyin Pasha of Yenişehir in 1645, Orhan Mosque and Clock Tower in Yarhisar Village are historical buildings worth seeing.
Büyükorhan :86 km. south of Bursa. Half of the district has a forested area and Görecik plateau, one of the natural beauties, is 6 km. away from the district.
Gürsu : 12 km. from the center of Bursa, Gürsu district is a charming district with its historical plane trees, Ottoman houses, historical baths and mosques.
Kestel :Located 12 km. east of Bursa, Kestel is almost like a merger with Bursa. The name Kestel comes from the castle built in the Roman period and called Kastel.
Orhaneli : It is 55 km. south of Bursa and on the slopes of Uludağ. Çınarcık near Orhaneli is a daily touristic area and is famous for its natural beauties.
Orhangazi :It is 48 km. north of Bursa and on the Bursa-Yalova road. It ranks second in terms of industry after Bursa. In the lands lying on the western shore of Lake Iznik, it has become the place where the world’s most delicious olives are grown with the climatological effect of Keramet Hot Spring.
HOW TO GO BURSA
Bursa is a province that can benefit from land and sea transportation in the widest way and has the potential for development in air transportation. The geographical and historical location of the province and its proximity to the important and developed centers of the country have enabled the development of transportation alternatives.
Highway : The province has an intense highway traffic in terms of both domestic and intercity traffic.
Bursa Terminal is located approximately 10 km from the city center. There are flights from the city to all other provinces.
Terminal : New Yalova road 10th km
Tel. : (+90-224)261 54 00
Seaway : Sea transportation is realized through Gemlik and Mudanya ports. Both ports are approximately 30 km. away from Bursa and are important import and export ports for Bursa industry.
Only freight transportation is carried out from Gemlik port. There are reciprocal ferry services from Mudanya to Istanbul by the Maritime Railways Administration.
IDO Mudanya Terminal : (+90-224)544 30 60
From Mudanya to Istanbul every working day at 7.30 a.m.
Saturday : 7.30 Sunday : 17.00
Airline : There is an airport in Bursa, 8 km. away from the city center.
Bursa Airport : (+90-224)246 50 01
Yenisehir Airport : (+90-224)773 00 64
Railway : There is no railway network in the province.
PLACES TO VISIT BURSA
IZNIK
Iznik is a city whose every handful of soil has been kneaded with cultural remains for thousands of years and has taken its place at the top of the history pages in the region for centuries. It is one of the rare settlements that has been the capital of four empires.
Tiling
The development of Iznik tile-making can be clearly seen in the tile coverings on buildings of known dates. The oldest Ottoman tiles decorating the minaret of the Iznik Green Mosque, built between 1378/91, continue the Seljuk tradition in terms of technique and decor, but their colors and tones are richer. These tiles, which give the mosque its name, are remarkable for the variety and richness of their turquoise and green colors.
We learn from historical documents that the tiles used in the buildings in Istanbul were made in Iznik. Iznik is the center of ceramics known as Miletus, Damascus group and Rhodes work. Evliya Çelebi, a traveler who came to Iznik in the 17th century, mentions that there were more than 300 tile kilns. Floral motifs such as tulips, hyacinths, pomegranates and carnations were used in Iznik tiles. There are also animal and ship motifs such as human, bird, fish, rabbit, dog. Blue, turquoise, green and red are the most commonly used colors.
History: Karadin, Çiçekli, Yüğücek and Çakırca Mounds near the city hide traces of civilization dating back to 2500 BC. The settlement established here before the migration of Thracian tribes in the VII century BC was named ‘Helikare’. The name Khryseapolis (Golden City) is read on the coins minted in the city.
The city, which was renovated by Antigonos, the general of Macedonian Emperor Alexander, in 316 BC, was named Antigoneia. After the death of Alexander, Lysimakhos, who won the war between Antigonos and general Lysimakhos, named the city after his wife Nikaia, the daughter of Antipatros. The city, which was annexed to the Kingdom of Bithynia in 293 BC, was decorated with important architectural structures. Nikaia, which was the capital of the Kingdom of Bithynia for a while, continued its existence as an important settlement of Rome.
Nicaea, Bithynia was introduced to Christianity through the efforts of Peter, one of the apostles. Emperor I. During the reign of Emperor Constantine, the bans on Christianity are lifted. In the early summer of 325, Nicaea witnesses a very important event for Christianity and the First Council convenes in the Senate Palace. In the meeting attended by Emperor Constantine, two important opinions were discussed. The view of the Alexandrian cleric Arius was that “. Jesus was only a man and was not born of God.” This thesis, which gathered supporters in a short time, was opposed by the Bishops. The thesis that “Jesus Christ is the son of God”, which is still defended by the Christian world today, was accepted after long debates. The Christian feast days and the 20-article text known as the Laws of Nicaea were adopted after this Council.
In 787, the VIIth Council convened in the Hagia Sophia of Nicaea. Under the leadership of Empress Irene, the bans on painting and sculpture were lifted.
Iznik was also the capital of the Seljuks and the Byzantines.
Captured in 1331 by the Ottoman armies, Iznik started to revive with the Ottoman period. Under Ottoman rule, Iznik became a center of art, trade and culture. Many famous people taught at Orhan Gazi Madrasah. Famous Sufis such as Davud-u Kayseri, Abul Fadil Musa, Ashrafoglu Abdullah Rumi lived in Iznik and gave works. The first mosque, madrasah and imaret of the Ottoman period were built in Iznik.
In the XIVth and XVth centuries and in the XVIth century, Iznik became a center of art and world-famous tiles and ceramics were produced here. Iznik preserves its historical urban texture with its grid-planned urban settlement dating back to the Hellenistic era, monumental buildings from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Climate Iznik generally has a temperate climate. In the district, winters are generally very rainy and summers are rainy enough not to cause drought.
MUDANYA
Located 25 km northwest of Bursa and on the coast of the Marmara Sea, Mudanya is a center where summer tourism is intense with its clean air.
History
Mudanya was founded in the VIIth century BC by Colophonian immigrants, one of the 12 great cities of Ionia. This ancient city of Apamcia-Myrleia was located on today’s Hisarlık hill. Mudanya lived during the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Climate
Summers are hot and dry, winters mild and rainy.
CUMALIKIZIK
Cumalıkızık, which has brought the most magnificent village settlement of Ottoman civil architecture to the present day, has become known all over the world as well as our country in recent years. It is rich in natural assets as well as cultural assets.
History:Cumalıkızık, one of the first regions where the Ottomans settled in Bursa, carries the Ottoman period housing texture to the present day with a total of 270 houses, 180 of which are still in use and some of which are undergoing conservation and restoration works.
The remains of a Byzantine church were discovered in 1969 in the Ihlamurcu area on the slopes of Uludağ, southeast of the Cumalıkızık settlement. Some architectural fragments of the church ruins found on the surface are kept in the Bursa Archaeology Museum. The Ottoman Principality, which was founded near Bursa, managed to dominate the region soon after its establishment, conquered Bursa in 1326 and Iznik in 1331 and established its presence in the region. Thus, the Ottoman people settled in these lands and formed cities and villages. Cumalıkızık was established as a foundation village and reflected this feature in its settlement texture, housing architecture and lifestyle. The local villages, which were squeezed between the steep skirts and valleys north of Uludağ, were named “Kızık” because of their location. In order to distinguish the villages from each other, the one close to the stream was named Derekızık, the one who gave ransom was named Fidyekızık and the village where Friday prayers were performed by going from Kızık villages collectively was named Cumalıkızık.
Climate: Winters are generally very rainy and summers are rainy enough not to cause drought.
Castles
Bursa Castle The construction of Bursa Castle dates back to the first century BC. Today the length of the walls is about two kilometers.
Mosques
Yıldırım Mosque and Tomb, Green Mosque and Tomb, Emir Sultan Mosque and Tomb, Ulu Cami (Mosque Kebir), Muradiye Complex, Hüdavendigar Mosque and Complex are important mosques and complexes in Bursa, which is an important religious tourism center.
Ulu Cami (Center): It was built by Yıldırım Bayezıt in 1396-1400, entirely of cut stone, with very thick and high walls, on 12 heavy four-cornered pillars, with pendants and twenty domes.
It is the most classical and monumental example of multi-domed mosques. With its rich and spacious space, it also has the largest size (318 m2) among all Turkish mosques. The small interlaced panels finely decorated with rumi and palmettes, the geometrically patterned railing networks, the inscription on the front façade and the minbar with its networked crown are masterpieces of the transition from the Seljuk style to the Ottoman style.
According to the narration about the construction of the fountain; some places need to be expropriated for the construction of the Great Mosque. The place where the fountain is located belongs to a Jewish woman. The Jewish woman, who did not want to give up her land, dreamt one night that all the people were running in the same direction. Curious, she asks where they are going and gets the answer “To heaven!”. She wants to run too, but they stop her because she refuses to give them her land. The Jewish woman was so moved by this dream that the next day she gave her land on the condition that a fountain would be built.
When the construction of the mosque was left unfinished due to financial difficulties, the Christian and Jewish communities contributed financially, and the Muslims used stones carved with the Star of David and the Cross on the windows of the mosque to show their gratitude.
Emir Sultan Mosque and Mausoleum (Center): Emir Sultan, a famous scholar, came to Bursa in 1391 and married Hundi Fatma Hatun, daughter of Yıldırım Bayezıt. Emir Sultan Mosque and mausoleum were built by his wife during the reign of Murat II. It is on a hill next to Emir Sultan Cemetery in the east of Bursa.
There is an eight-cornered tomb with two rooms on the north side. The present form of the Emir Sultan Mosque, which is a good example of the single-domed mosque type with its courtyard with a fountain, was built in 1804 during the reign of Sultan Selim III.
Muradiye Complex (Center): It is located in a large park in the Muradiye neighborhood. The complex was built by Sultan Murat II between 1424-1426 and consists of a mosque, madrasah, imaret, bathhouse and 12 mausoleums.
The mosque belongs to the type of mosques with side spaces (zaviyeli) that were widely used in the early Ottoman architecture. The mihrab and minbar date from the 18th century and are in Baroque style. The entrance door is one of the most beautiful examples of woodwork. There are 12 mausoleums built on behalf of Murat II and his family in Muradiye Complex.
Orhan Mosque and Complex (Center): Built by Orhan Bey in 1339-1340, the complex consists of a mosque, madrasah, imaret, school, bathhouse and inn (Emir Inn). It is east of the Grand Mosque and is one of the first examples of Ottoman complexes.
Orhan Mosque is one of the most important early Ottoman buildings in Bursa. The twin arches on the sides are important features of the building. It was built with three rows of bricks and one row of stones, and the brick workmanship on the exterior is extremely interesting.
Hüdavendigar Mosque and Complex (Center): Built by Sultan Murat I (Hüdavendigar) in 1366-1385, the complex consists of a mosque, madrasah, imaret, tomb and bathhouse and is located in Çekirge district.
The lower floor of the two-storey building, which is unique in Ottoman Architecture, is a mosque and the upper floor is a madrasah. The architect of the building, which looks like a palace with its flamboyant outer minaret, is unknown. The two-storey facade gains a flamboyant view reminiscent of Venetian palaces with the upper floor porticoes opening from the sides and front with double pointed arches with columns in the middle. A fountain under the dome with an open center creates a harmonious atmosphere with light waterfalls.
Opposite the Hüdavendigar Mosque is the tomb of Sultan Murat I (Hüdavendigar) who was martyred in the Battle of Kosovo I in 1389. The inscription of the tomb built by Yıldırım Bayezıt is dated 1722.
Yildirim Bayezit Complex (Center): Built between 1390-1399 and located in the east of the city in the Yıldırım district, the complex consists of a mosque, madrasah, darüşşifa, mausoleum, inn, hammam, imaret, pavilion, kitchen, service rooms and stables.
The mosque in the center of the complex is one of the most monumental examples of side-winged mosques and has a foundation dated 1399. With this mosque, Ottoman architecture began to find its own unique building style.
To the northeast of the mosque is the tomb, the only building with an inscription. Built in 1406 by Suleyman Khan, the son of Yildirim Bayezit, for the architect Ali bin Hussein, the mausoleum is the first example of Ottoman mausoleums with porticoes.
Yeşil Mosque (Center): Built by Çelebi Sultan Mehmet in 1419-1420, the decorations of the mosque were built in 1424 during the reign of Murat II. It is known as the Green Mosque because of the green turquoise and tiles used in the decoration. Its architect is Hacı İvaz Paş. It is one of the most important Ottoman period buildings of Bursa and is famous for its decorations rather than its mosque architecture. Tile decorations are the most important feature of the mosque.
Green Mausoleum (Center): The symbol of Bursa, the structure is one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman tomb architecture. The octagonal structure, which is accessed by a marble staircase, is covered by a lead-covered dome sitting on a high pulley. It is a unique structure with its tile decorations. The mihrab covered entirely with tiles is a masterpiece. The door made of walnut wood with inscription and decorated with geometric motifs is one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman woodwork.
Gerush Synagogue (Center): Located on Arap Şükrü Street. It was built by the first caravans of the Jewish community who were expelled from Spain at the end of the XIVth century and accepted into the Ottoman Empire on galleons sent by the Ottoman Emperor Selim II and settled in Bursa. The fact that the synagogue was named Gerush, which means “expelled” in Hebrew, is meaningful in this respect. It has survived to the present day in a very sound and well-maintained condition and is open to the worship of the Jewish community.
Mayor Synagogue (Center): It is on Arap Şükrü Street. It was built by the other Jewish clans who were accepted by the Ottoman Empire in the XVth century from the Majorca Island of Spain and resided in Bursa, and was named Mayor after the name of the island they came from. The date of its first construction is known as the XVth century. The multicolored pen work motifs decorating the interior are important.
Etz Ahayım Synagogue (Center): Located on Arap Şükrü Street and built in the early XIVth century, the name of the synagogue means “Tree of Life” in Hebrew. It is important because it was the first synagogue built during the Ottoman period. During the time of Orhan Bey, who conquered Bursa, an edict was issued and this synagogue was allowed to be built.
Iznik Green Mosque (Iznik): The most important monumental structure of Ottoman architecture in Iznik, the mosque is located near the Lefke Gate in the east of the district. It was built by Çandarlı Hayrettin Pasha in 1378-1398.
The simple marble mihrab with corner columns and muqarnas niches, decorated with geometric interlaces, Rumi and palmette reliefs, is the oldest and most beautiful Ottoman example of the period.
The brick minaret, which follows the Seljuk tradition, is decorated with green turquoise, yellow and purple colored tiles, giving the mosque its name. Iznik Green Mosque is one of the transitional buildings to the Ottoman style, which was born from Seljuk architecture.
Hacı Özbek Mosque (Çarşı Mescidi-Iznik): It is located in the bazaar in Iznik. It was built in 1333 and is the oldest inscribed Ottoman mosque in history.
Çandarlı Kara Halil İbrahim Pasha Tomb (Iznik): Located on Kılıçaslan Street, the tomb is one of the examples of tombs with mudbrick walls and inlays. It was built by Faik Pasha during the reign of Bayezit II.
Sheikh Kudbettin Mosque (Iznik): Opposite the Green Mosque, next to the Iznik Museum. It was built at the beginning of the XV. century. Destroyed during the War of Independence, some remains of the walls and some of the architecture have survived to the present day. The use of a stone engraved with a seven-candle candlestick, the symbol of the Jews, in the construction of the mosque is the best example of Muslim tolerance.
Hagia Sophia Museum (Iznik): It is a Byzantine Church built in the middle of the city in the IVth century and was converted into a mosque during the reign of Orhan Gazi. It is the place where the 7th Ecumenical Council meeting, which is important for Christians, was held. It is currently in ruins.
Senatus (Palace of the Consuls – Nicaea): The Senatus, where the first of the Consul meetings, which is of great importance for Christians, was held, is also called the Consul palace. The ruins of the work located on the lake gate side are under the lake waters.
Hypogeum (Underground Burial Chamber – Elbeyli-Iznik): It is a burial chamber built in the IV century on the road to Elbeyli Village. It is the most valuable hypogeum in Turkey with its frescoes. It is built with square walls with a barrel vault on top. There are two peacocks in relief on the west wall. The sarcophagus in the tomb is adorned with fluted columns connected to each other by round arches.
Churches
French Church The church, covered with wood and tiles, also has a patient care center. It is estimated to have been built in the 19th century.
Synagogues
Gerush Synagogue Built in the early 16th century by Selim II, the synagogue is located on Arap Şükrü Street. In the late 14th century, the first caravans of the Jewish community, who were expelled from Spain and accepted into the Ottoman Empire on galleons sent by the Ottoman Empire, were settled in Bursa and this synagogue was established. The present structure of the Gerush Synagogue is extremely robust, well maintained and open for worship.
Ets Ahayim Synagogue: The synagogue, also known as the Tree of Life Synagogue, is important because it was the first synagogue built during the Ottoman period. During the time of Orhan Bey, who conquered Bursa, an edict was issued and the establishment of the Ets Ahayim Synagogue was allowed.
Mayor Synagogue: This synagogue was built by the other Jewish clans from the Spanish island of Mallorca who were accepted by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and settled in Bursa, and was named Mayor after the name of the island they came from. The Mayor Synagogue is still in use for events and washing the dead.
Inns
Emir Khan Emir Khan, located just below the Grand Mosque, was built by Orhan Bey in the second half of the XIVth century. This inn, which consists of a two-storey portico lined around the inner courtyard and rooms opening to it, is the first example of Ottoman inns. There is a fountain in the center of the inn and historical plane trees.
Eski (Grain) Han: Located on Cumhuriyet Street, the inn was built by Semiz Alizade, one of the grand viziers of Kanuni, in the 16th century.
Geyve Inn Located next to the Demirkapı Bazaar, the inn known as Hacı İvaz-Payigah was built in the XV century by Hacı İvaz Pasha, the son of Ahi Bayezid, and presented to Çelebi Mehmet.
İpek Han: (Arabacılar Han) Located next to the İvaz Pasha Mosque, this inn was built by Çelebi Mehmet. It is the largest of the inns in Bursa.
Koza Han Located between Ulu Cami and Orhan Cami, this inn was built by Bayazıt II in 1490 to generate income for his charitable buildings in Istanbul. It is the most beautiful and most intensively used inn in Bursa today.
Pirinç Han Built in 1508 by Sultan Bayazıt II to provide income for his foundations in Istanbul. There is a historical plane tree in the courtyard of the inn.
National Parks
Bursa – Uludag National Park
Location: Bursa Province
Transportation: The National Park is located on Uludag, which rises in the south of Bursa province in the Marmara Region. From Bursa, you can reach Sarıalan in 20 minutes by a 34 km. highway open in summer and winter or by cable car with 40 cabins. From there, minibuses take you to the “hotel area”. A private helicopter service can reach the National Park in 25 minutes from Istanbul.
Feature: The geological structure of Uludağ, which was formed at the end of the rise and solidification of the magma coming from the depths of the earth along the fractures and cracks, is generally composed of internal eruptive granite rocks. The mountain gained its present shape due to tectonic movements and different erosion effects. Uludağ, which is as high as 2543 meters in a short distance from the Bursa plain, is the highest point of the Marmara Region. The Aras waterfall and the glacial traces seen on the peaks are interesting features of the geomorphological structure of Uludağ.
Another characteristic of the National Park is the forest belts formed by the changing plant communities from the Bursa plain to the peaks of Uludağ. The botanical scientist MAYR has a special importance in the World Forestry Literature in terms of characterizing the plant belts at various heights.
The favorable natural conditions of the National Park have allowed animals such as bears, wolves, jackals, foxes, roe deer, deer, rabbits, pigs, partridges, wild pigeons, vultures, eagles, eagles, meadowlarks, nightingales and warblers to live and multiply.
Uludağ is covered with snow from December to May. With up to 3.95 meters of snow thickness, extremely suitable for skiing, and snow quality, Uludağ is Turkey’s most important winter sports center.
Places to See: Çobankaya and Sarıalan camping and day-use areas offer different landscape values of the National Park, while the “Bakacak View Terrace” in Çobankaya offers a wider perspective of landscape values, Bursa plain and urban development to visitors.
Available Services and Accommodation: Within the National Park area, the so-called “Hotels Region” offers visitors the opportunity to ski in winter activities, while the Sarıalan, Çobankaya and Kirazlıyayla areas are among the areas organized for camping and daily use.
In Sarıalan, fixed (shed, bungalow) and tent camping is possible, while in the hotels area, both public and private establishments allow overnight stays. Only tent camping is possible in the Çobankaya area.
Caves
Ayvaini Cave
The cave is located in the village of Ayva in Bursa Province.
Characteristics: It is a horizontally developed cave except the entrance. The cave has two mouths. One enters the cave from one point (Doğanalanı) and exits from another mouth. There is a vertical descent of 17 meters right at the entrance of the cave. There are many lakes in the cave and it is shallow enough to pass through in the spring months despite the rising water.
Oylat Cave
Location: Bursa, Inegol District, Hilmiye Village
The cave is located one km. south of the village of Hilmiye, about 17 km. inland from the road leading to Oylat Hot Spring from the Bursa-Ankara highway.
Features: The cave with a total length of 665 m. consists of two main sections. The first section consists of narrow galleries from the entrance to the end of the depression. There are giant cauldrons and dripstone pools inside. The second section is a big collapse hall. It consists of huge blocks and giant dripstone shapes (stalactites, stalagmites and columns).
The temperature in front of the cave is 29ºC, humidity 47 percent, at the entrance 19ºC, humidity 55 percent, in the narrow gallery 17ºC, humidity 78 percent, in the collapse halls 14ºC, humidity 90 percent.
Hot Springs
Bursa is rich in thermal springs and famous spas include Vakıfbahçe (Çekirge) Thermal Spring, Bademli Bahçe Thermal Spring, Dümbüldek Thermal Spring, Gemlik (Terme) Thermal Spring and Armutlu Thermal Spring.
Oylat Thermal Tourism Center
Location: It is in the south of Inegol district of Bursa province.
Transportation: İnegöl city center is 27 km. away.
Water Temperature:
40°C -Oylat Bath Spring
30.5°C -Water Source
10°C -Eye Water Source
PH Value:
7.26 -Oylat Hamam Spring
7.18 -Sizzling Water Source
3.04 -Eye Water Source
Properties: Sulfate, bicarbonate, calcium, Oylat Bath and Sızı Water Springs, Sulfate, hydrogen ion, iron, Göz Water Spring
Ways of Utilization: Drinking and bath cures
Diseases Treated: It is effective in drinking cures, diuresis cures and obesity, the sedative properties of bath cures are utilized.
Accommodation Facilities: Grand Hotel (220 beds), (L) Motel (210 beds)
Cekirge Thermal Tourism Center
Location: It is located in Cekirge district of Bursa province.
Water Temperature:
47°C -Vakıfbahçe Spring
58°C -Karamustafa Spring
77°C -Kaynarca and Yenikaplıca Springs
78°C -Sulfurous Bath Spring
PH Value:
6.98 -Vakıfbahçe Source
6.60 -Karamustafa Source
6.78 -Kaynarca and Yenikaplıca Resources
6.44 -Sulfur Bath Spring
Properties: Hyperthermal, hypotonic, oligomitalic and radioactive, Vakıfbahçe Spring, Hyperthermal, hypotonic, radioactive, Karamustafa Spring, Hyperthermal, hypotonic, Kaynarca, Yenikaplıca, Kükürtlü Hamam Springs, Bicarbonate, sulphate, calcium, magnesium, Vakıfbahçe and Karamustafa Springs, Bicarbonate, sulfate, sodium, calcium, -Kaynarca and Yenikaplıca Springs, Bicarbonate, sulfate, sodium, calcium, carbon dioxide, sulfur, Sulfurous Bath Springs
Ways of Utilization: Drinking and bath cures
Diseases Treated: Bath cures are effective in rheumatic syndromes, other painful diseases of the locomotor system, chronic inflammatory and painful gynecological diseases, vascular blockages, bronchiectasis; drinking – bath compound cures are effective in liver, biliary tract, mild diabetes, gout outside the crisis periods, obesity with excessive fat deposits in the blood.
Accommodation Facilities: Anatolia Hotel (93 rooms, 192 beds), Büyük Yıldız Hotel (35 rooms, 68 beds), Hotel Kervansaray (211 rooms, 500 beds)
Armutlu Thermal Tourism Center
Location: It is located in the north of Armutlu District of Bursa Province and within the municipality of Armutlu Municipality.
Transportation: Armutlu is 2 km. away from the city center.
Water Temperature 57oC
PH Value: 6,2 – 6,5
Properties: Sulfate, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Calcium, Sodium and Carbon Dioxide.
Ways of Utilization: Drinking and bath cures
Diseases It Treats: It has a positive effect on diseases such as rheumatism, heart and blood circulation, women, nervous and muscle fatigue, nervous disorders, malnutrition.
Accommodation: 2 star accommodation is available.
Beaches
Bursa province, which has a coast of about 135 km in the south of the Marmara Sea, has wide natural beaches in Karacabey, Mudanya and Gemlik districts and beautiful beaches on the shores of Iznik and Uluabat (Apolyont) lakes. There are long and wide natural beaches in Yeniköy, Bayramdere (Malkara) and Zeytinbag in Mudanya. On these coasts with good sand quality, there are Kurşunlu, Bayramdere, and Mesudiye, Ifce and Esence beaches in the Yeniköy-Mudanya section.
Recreation Areas
Saitabat Waterfall: Located 3 km away from Derekızık village, the waterfall falls from a canyon. This promenade area, where meat barbecue restaurants and kiosks are located around the waterfall, is used extensively by the people of Bursa.
Suuçtu Waterfall A piece of paradise 18 km. away from Mustafakemalpaşa district, Suuçtu Waterfall falls from a height of 38 meters.
Aras Waterfall Aras Creek and Aras Waterfall carries the snow waters of Uludağ and falls from a height of 15 meters right through the rocks. The distance between Bursa-Sogukpinar is 30 km and from the village, a 5 km stabilized road leads to the Ketenlik plateaus and from there to the waterfall.
Sportive Events
Ski Centers: The world-famous Uludağ Ski Center is within the borders of Bursa.
Uludag Ski Center
Hunting: Bursa is located in a region rich in wild game animals. There are four important bird areas in Bursa. These are Uludağ, Iznik Lake, Uluabat Lake and Kocaçay Delta.
Mountain Trekking: Uludağ is suitable for hiking in summer and winter and 6 preferred trails have been identified.
Hotels Region-Cennet Kaya Trail: On this trail, the starting point of which has an altitude of 1865 meters, there is an insatiable nature walk accompanied by the view of Gemlik Bay from the northern slope and all mountain villages from the southern slope. The distance of the trail is 2000 meters.
Hotels Region-Sarıalan-Çobankaya Trail: This trail, which starts and ends at an altitude of 1850 meters and 1750 meters, has a magnificent forest environment decorated with sparkling streams along the way. The distance of the track is 5200 meters.
Hotels Region-Softabogan waterfall Trail: This forest trail, whose starting point is at an altitude of 1800 meters, has a waterfall that descends in the form of streams, ponds and terraces of Uludağ. Guided by the sounds of water and unique views, the trek ends with a magnificent panorama of the Bursa Plain. The distance of the trail is 6000 meters.
Hotels Region-Hanlar Region-Bagli Village Trail: Starting at an altitude of 1865 meters, it is possible to see the extraordinary hospitality of the Anatolian people while descending from the summit to the mountain villages. The distance of the track is 7500 meters.
Hotels Area-Zirve Hill Trail: While climbing to the 2487-meter summit, you can see the extraordinary images of nature and vegetation in Uludağ and its region and the insatiable panorama of the sea on one side and the Apollo lakes on the other. The distance of the track is 7615 meters.
Wolfram-Materials Region-Lakes Region Track: At an altitude of 2300 meters, you will experience the privilege of observing butterfly species and mountain flowers unique only to Uludağ, accompanied by mountain views, and the magnificent atmosphere of glacial lakes (Black Lake, Aynalı Lake, Kilimli Lake, Icy Lake) is felt. The distance of the track is 9800 meters.
Youth Camps There are Hasanağa and Kırcaali Youth and Scouting camps belonging to the Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports on the coast of Gemlik district. These camps have 175 beds each and allow young people from all over Turkey to camp for 4 periods of 10 days each in the summer months.
Bursa Forest Camps
In addition, the Gölcük Campground in Uludağ National Park is also used for camping activities by student and scout groups. The shores of Iznik and Uluabat Lake are also very suitable for youth camps. Sailing, swimming, surfing and camping trainings open to international participation are organized around the lake.
Bird Observation Area
İznik Lake Bird Area, Uludağ Bird Area, Ulubat Lake Bird Area and Kocaçay Delta are located within the borders of Bursa province.
Marmara Basin
Kocaçay Delta
GEOGRAPHY
Bursa is located in the south-east of the Marmara Sea and its coastline on the Marmara Sea is 135 kilometers long. The most important elevation of the province is Uludağ, which is also a ski resort and national park. The main lakes are Iznik Lake and Uluabat Lake.
Although Bursa generally has a mild climate, it shows climate differences according to regions. In contrast to the harsh climate and abundant rainfall of Uludağ in the south, the mild climate of Marmara prevails in the north. Winters in the province are generally very rainy and summers are rainy enough not to cause drought.
HISTORY OF BURSA
The history of the Bursa region dates back to the Chalcolithic period of 5000-3500 BC. Archaeological researches in the region yielded some remains from this period.
Later, the city, which lived through the Phrygian, Roman and Byzantine periods, came under the rule of the Seljuks and Ottomans.
On October 29, 1923, with the proclamation of the Republic, Bursa became a city that continued to develop as a center of culture, industry and agriculture.
WHAT TO EAT
When you come to Bursa, you should definitely eat Iskender Kebab, Inegol Meatballs and Kemalpasa Dessert. Apart from these, Kestane Sugar, which is identified with Bursa, should not be forgotten.
WHAT TO BUY?
Bursa silk weavings and Bursa’s famous towels, which are famous all over the world, should be purchased.
IMPORTANT LINKS
Bursa Governorship http://www.bursa.gov.tr/
Bursa Municipality http://www.bursa-bld.gov.tr/