Bursa is one of the most developed provinces of Turkey and is the 4th most populated province. Bursa is of great importance in terms of history and natural beauty, and we can say that it was once the capital of the Ottoman Empire. It is impossible not to fall in love with Turkey and there are many reasons for this, one of them being Bursa. When I think of Bursa, the first place that comes to mind for me: is Cumalıkızık and of course its unique and colorful buildings. Those flawless streets that still preserve their own identity and take a journey through history when you are there are astonishing.
So what exactly is Cumalıkızık and where is it?
Cumalıkızık is a village in the Yıldırım district of Bursa. It is one of the five Kızık villages that still exist.
Bursa city center is 11 km away and can be reached in about 20 minutes.
In addition, the village was registered as a World Heritage Site together with Bursa in 2014 due to its importance in the establishment of the Ottoman Empire, which is another reason that makes it is important.
So, is there a reason why the name Cumalıkızık was chosen? Certainly.
It is said that the people of all Kızık villages gathered here for Friday prayers in the past, and it is rumored that this is the reason for its name. There are many places to see when visiting Cumalıkızık, the first of which is of course the famous Cumalıkızık houses. Indeed, those unique buildings are worth seeing. The buildings are approximately 3 floors and were designed in such a way that the inside of the buildings cannot be seen from the streets due to the importance given to privacy at that time. The streets are adorned with these beautiful houses. Great places for those who love to feel the Ottoman period and aesthetic places.
Now, I want to talk about a mosque that everyone knows when Bursa is mentioned.
Bursa, Turkey is a city rich in history and cultural heritage, and one of its most iconic landmarks is the Bursa Grand Mosque, also known as the Ulu Mosque. Built by Bayezid I between 1396-1400, this mosque is considered the largest congregation place in Turkey and is a must-see for anyone visiting Bursa.
The Bursa Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece, and one of its most unique features is the minbar. This minbar is considered an important example of the transition from Seljuk carving art to Ottoman wood carving art. The intricate designs and craftsmanship on the minbar are a testament to the skill and talent of the artisans who created it.
Another remarkable feature of the Bursa Grand Mosque is the fountain located under an open dome. This fountain is not only a functional element of the mosque but also a beautiful and ornate architectural feature. The sound of the water cascading down the fountain creates a peaceful and serene atmosphere within the mosque.
The Bursa Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark. It was built during the time when Bursa was the capital of the Ottoman Empire, and it played an important role in the establishment of the empire. The mosque is an important example of Ottoman architecture and showcases the grandeur and opulence of the empire.
Visitors to the Bursa Grand Mosque will also appreciate the intricate tilework and calligraphy that adorn the walls and ceilings. These tiles and calligraphy were created by some of the most skilled artisans of the time, and they add to the mosque’s beauty and elegance.
In conclusion, the Bursa Grand Mosque is a must-see for anyone visiting Bursa. It is a beautiful and historic landmark that showcases the skill and artistry of the Ottoman Empire. The minbar, fountain, and tilework are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bursa, and the mosque is a symbol of the city’s past and present. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or architecture, the Bursa Grand Mosque is a must-visit destination.
Although we only talk about Cumalıkızık and the Mosque, there are Bursa and many other things that are important.
