Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire – Bursa Province

Bursa and Cumalıkızık: The Birth of the Ottoman Empire – Bursa Province

Nestled in the lush, green foothills of Mount Uludağ, the city of Bursa and the nearby village of Cumalıkızık tell the captivating story of the early Ottoman Empire. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, this region is not only significant for its historic and architectural legacy but also for the unique way it has preserved the essence of a civilization that would come to shape vast parts of the world for centuries.

Bursa, often referred to as "Yeşil Bursa" or "Green Bursa" for its abundant gardens and parks, was the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire, long before Istanbul rose to prominence. Its rich history, paired with its vibrant culture and natural beauty, make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and a journey into the past.

The Founding Capital of an Empire

In 1326, Bursa was captured by Orhan Gazi, son of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman dynasty. The city was soon declared the first capital of the new empire. As such, it became the site of important urban, religious, and social developments, many of which still stand today.

The early Ottomans built a city that reflected their vision of a harmonious Islamic society, influenced by Byzantine and Seljuk architecture but also developing a distinct Ottoman style. Walking through Bursa’s historic districts, visitors can still see the mosques, madrasas, baths, tombs, and bazaars that formed the blueprint of Ottoman urban design.

Architectural Treasures of Bursa

A visit to Bursa is like stepping into an open-air museum of early Ottoman architecture. Among the most prominent structures is the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), an architectural marvel commissioned by Sultan Bayezid I in the 14th century. With its 20 domes, intricate calligraphy, and spacious prayer hall, the Ulu Cami is considered one of the finest examples of early Ottoman religious architecture.

Nearby stands the Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami) and Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), built by Sultan Mehmed I. The mosque and tomb are covered with iconic green-blue İznik tiles, which became a hallmark of Ottoman design. The Green Tomb, in particular, is an emotional and artistic masterpiece, resting place to one of the sultans who reestablished the Ottoman state after a turbulent period.

Equally fascinating is the Muradiye Complex, built by Sultan Murad II. This serene area includes a mosque, a madrasa, a bathhouse, and several tombs of Ottoman royalty, including Şehzade Mustafa, the ill-fated son of Suleiman the Magnificent. The complex tells stories of ambition, sorrow, and the intricate politics of an expanding empire.

Cumalıkızık: A Timeless Ottoman Village

Just a short drive from central Bursa lies Cumalıkızık, a picturesque village that feels untouched by time. Founded in the early 14th century, Cumalıkızık is one of the best-preserved examples of an Ottoman rural settlement.

With its cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and flowering courtyards, the village provides a vivid picture of daily life during the early Ottoman period. The architecture here is humble yet functional, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle and close-knit community structure of the time.

The name "Cumalıkızık" derives from the Turkish word for Friday (Cuma) and is believed to refer to the village's role as a gathering place for communal Friday prayers. Walking through the village, visitors can see traditional homes still inhabited by families, some of whom trace their ancestry back generations. Locals often sell homemade goods, such as jams, bread, and handcrafted souvenirs, adding to the village’s authentic charm.

Bursa’s Thermal Baths and Culinary Delights

Beyond its historical significance, Bursa has long been known as a center of healing and relaxation, thanks to its natural thermal springs. The most famous among them is the Çekirge district, where Ottoman sultans once bathed in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Today, many of these bathhouses still operate, offering modern spa treatments within centuries-old settings.

Food lovers will find Bursa equally satisfying. The city is the birthplace of İskender Kebab, a succulent dish made from thinly sliced lamb over buttered pita bread, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt. Pair it with a glass of şıra (a sweet, non-alcoholic grape beverage) for the full local experience. And don’t forget to try Bursa’s candied chestnuts (kestane şekeri) — a sweet treat with a legacy all its own.

A Living Heritage

Bursa and Cumalıkızık are more than static historical sites — they are living, breathing communities. People live, work, and worship in the same spaces that Ottoman sultans once walked. This continuity of life gives the area a special aura that goes beyond monuments and museums.

In recognizing the region as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO praised it for representing "the creation of an urban and rural system that illustrates the key elements of the Ottoman Empire's founding period." This unique blend of city and village life, monumental architecture and humble homes, imperial grandeur and everyday simplicity, makes Bursa and Cumalıkızık a one-of-a-kind travel destination.

Plan Your Visit

Getting to Bursa is easy, with ferry services from Istanbul, direct buses, and a growing highway system that makes travel convenient. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a traveler in search of authentic culture, Bursa and Cumalıkızık offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ottoman heritage — a journey where the past comes alive at every turn.