Bursa and Cumalıkızık
Bursa and Cumalıkızık were enlisted as a world heritage due to their historical significance and well-preserved examples of early Ottoman architecture and urban planning.
Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including mosques, tombs, and public buildings that reflect the architectural style of the early Ottomans. Notable sites in Bursa include the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), the Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii), and the Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), which showcase intricate tile work and calligraphy.
Cumalıkızık, a village located on the outskirts of Bursa, is recognized for its traditional Ottoman houses and its role as a model of early Ottoman rural settlement. The village features narrow streets lined with well-preserved wooden houses, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Cumalıkızık is also significant for its cultural practices, including traditional crafts and local cuisine.
Together, Bursa and Cumalıkızık exemplify the early Ottoman way of life and architecture, providing valuable insights into the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the period. Their inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights their importance in understanding the development of the Ottoman Empire and its influence on the region.