Rich history and unique culture. Stock Exchange (Photo: ShutterStock)
Although Turkey is a short flight away from Israel, the vast majority of Israeli tourists who visit it choose to vacation mainly in two cities: Istanbul and Antalya. However, besides these two popular cities, Turkey has other cities worth visiting, such as Bursa - a beautiful and special city located in the northwest of the country, boasting a rich history and unique culture.
If you are also planning a vacation in Turkey, whether as part of an organized trip as issued by Pegasus to the country or as part of an independent trip, and you feel like diversifying a bit, Bursa is the perfect destination for you. Here's everything you need to know about this magical city.
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Bursa is located in a dreamy location, between beautiful high mountains (including Uludag - the highest mountain in the region), and is suitable for holidays in both winter and summer months. In the colder months, Bursa becomes a sought-after ski destination, while the warmer months are devoted to nature walks and city tours.
Bursa has countless attractions for its visitors - from lively markets, through impressive mosques to shopping areas not to be missed.
Inside view of the Green Mosque
Attractions
Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii): Probably the most popular attraction in the city. The Green Mosque is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Turkey, built back in the 15th century. It was designed by one of the most famous architects in Turkey at the time (Hachi Pasha) and is famous for its intricate tilework, which creates a hypnotic effect during the day.
Although the Green Mosque is famous for the same tiles and an impressive dome, its interior is no less impressive – the walls are decorated with calligraphy and beautiful tilework, while the ceiling is decorated with intricate geometric patterns. The prayer area of the mosque is made of carved marble and features a design typical of Ottoman architecture.
Bursa Castle (Bursa Kalesi): Bursa Castle dates back to the Byzantine period. It is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views over Bursa and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about the history and culture of the city from an exceptional angle.
Over the years, the castle was occupied by various rulers and armies, including the Ottoman Empire, which carried out significant renovations, including the addition of towers and walls, which helped strengthen the defensive capabilities. One of the most impressive things about the castle is its massive walls, built for over four kilometers. These walls made of local stone have survived the test of time, despite centuries of exposure to various weather conditions and many battles.
Bursa Castle
@ekremsanlav #bursa #bursa kalesi #kelfetteyiz ♬ Manzara - Aylin Coşkun
Visit to the hammam: True, in almost every city in Turkey you can find a hammam of one kind or another, but some say that Bursa's hammams are considered the best in the country.
The two leading hammams in the city are Çekirge and Eski Kapilka, which offer a traditional Turkish experience. Çekirge was built at the beginning of the 20th century and features a beautiful domed ceiling and impressive tilework. A range of services are offered, including traditional Turkish massages and skin treatments. Eski Capilka, on the other hand, was built years earlier, somewhere in the 16th century, and is located in the city's historic quarter. It is known for its relaxing atmosphere and quality treatments that await visitors.
It should be noted that unlike in years past, Bursa's hammams also offer modern spa services, such as aromatherapy, yoga and meditation.
Thin slices of mutton on tomato sauce and melted butter. Iskander (Photo: ShutterStock)
Food
Turkish food is famous all over the world and also here in Israel. However, unlike other cities in the country, Bursa's culinary scene has also absorbed influences from other cuisines, such as Balkan cuisine. The result: special, delicious dishes and flavors that are hard to find elsewhere in the world.
İskender: Turkish cuisine is considered one of the most intriguing cuisines in the world, including some delicious dishes. One of the most delicious dishes in Bursa is Iskander - a dish served with thin slices of lamb on tomato sauce and melted butter.
There are quite a few good restaurants around town serving the famous Turkish dish, but Kabapachi seems to stand above them all. The popular restaurant, which dates back to 1867, is in the city's historic district, and is said to be the best İskander in all of Turkey.
Kemalpaşa: One of the city's most iconic dishes, Kemalpaşa, was invented in the stock exchange itself. This is a magical and delicious Turkish dessert, which melts in your mouth in seconds. It is made from cheese, flour, semolina, eggs and baking powder and in some places the dish is served alongside an ice cream ball.
Tatlıcısı dessert shop is one of the most recommended places in Bursa to try this sweet treat, while the Güllüoğlu shop also offers a delicious version of it.
Maintains authenticity to this day. Koza Han
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Shopping
Apart from countless attractions and exceptional food, the city of Bursa is also a perfect destination for shopping enthusiasts, especially those looking for textile, leather or ceramic products. In this lovely city there are quite a few markets alongside malls and boutique stores, where you can find, besides large and well-known brands, local fashion chains.
Koza Han: The history of Koza Han dates back to the 15th century. Originally, Koza Han Market served as a trading center for silk products for merchants passing through the famous Silk Road. However, over the years, other vendors joined in, turning it into a vibrant and colorful market, which has maintained authenticity to this day.
The market has two levels and you can find valuable silk items, along with spices, street food and even home furniture. The interior of the market is particularly impressive, with Ottoman-style arch decorations, intricate tilework and wooden balconies, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage.
Kent Meydan Mall: One of the largest malls in Bursa, consisting of three floors dedicated to shopping. The mall has about 200 stores offering local and international brands in various fields, including fashion and electronics.
In addition to shopping and dining, Kent Meidan Mall also offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors. It features a modern cinema complex, bowling alley and children's play area, making it a highly recommended attraction for families with young children.
One of the most prominent features of Kent Meidan Mall is its unique architecture and design. In its center you can find an open courtyard with a fountain and several cafes.
The article is sponsored by Pegasus Organized trips abroad - as part of its goal of promoting familiarity with world cultures and enriching knowledge.
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