MOSQUES OF BURSA: LANDMARKS OF HISTORY AND SPIRITUALITY

As the first capitals of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is not only historical but also fascinating with its mosques. These mosques, each of which bears the traces of a different era, impress their visitors with both their architectural elegance and their spiritual atmosphere. If you are planning a trip in Bursa, you should make a stop at the four important mosques of the city: the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), Emir Sultan Mosque, Green Mosque and Muradiye Mosque.

Ulu Mosque: The Heart of Bursa

Located in the center of Bursa, the Grand Mosque is one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the city. It was built between 1396 and 1399 by Yıldırım Bayezid, who was the fourth sultan of Ottoman Empire. The mosque, which draws attention with its 20 domes and spacious interior, is an important example of the transition from Seljuk architecture to Ottoman style. The calligraphy works inside the mosque are also dazzling; It is possible to see hundreds of different calligraphy plates on the walls and columns, thus it is often called “museum of calligraphy”. At the center of the mosque is a beautiful ablution fountain (şadırvan), unusual because fountains are typically found in mosque courtyards. It's said to enhance the serene, refreshing atmosphere inside.


Emir Sultan Mosque

Emir Sultan Mosque, which rises in the Emir Sultan Neighborhood in the east of the city, takes its name from Emir Sultan, a respected Islamic scholar and Sufi master who was invited to Bursa by Sultan Bayezid I and became an influential figure in the city’s religious life. Its first construction was carried out by Hundi Hatun, the daughter of Yıldırım Bayezid and the wife of Emir Sultan, and it has undergone many repairs over time. fter Emir Sultan’s death, his wife, Hundi Hatun, had a tomb and a mosque built in his memory. The original structure was completed in the early 15th century. The mosque suffered damage during earthquakes over the centuries. It was largely rebuilt during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I in the mid-19th century (around 1868), giving the building its current appearance, which reflects Ottoman Baroque architectural influences rather than the earlier simple style. Today's mosque bears traces of 19th century Ottoman architecture. Emir Sultan Mosque offers a mystical peace, especially with its large courtyard and surrounding cemetery.

The Green Mosque

Another landmark that comes to mind when Bursa is mentioned is the Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii). Built by Çelebi Sultan Mehmed between 1419 and 1421, this mosque takes its name from its green and turquoise tiles that richly decorate its interior. The decorations, dominated by green and turquoise tones, are among the most beautiful examples of Ottoman tile art. Apart from the famous tiles, the mosque also showcases exquisite marble craftsmanship—especially around the mihrab (prayer niche) and entrance portal, which feature delicate carvings and geometric patterns. The Green Camii reflects a beautiful synthesis of Seljuk, Byzantine, and early Ottoman artistic traditions. The Green Mosque can be visited as a complex with the Green Tomb right next to it; This area is almost like an open-air museum for history and art enthusiasts.


Muradiye Mosque

Muradiye Camii, located in the quiet Muradiye district of Bursa, is a beautiful example of the transition from early to classical Ottoman architecture. Construction of the mosque began in 1425 and was completed in 1426. Sultan Murad II, the father of Mehmed the Conqueror (Fatih Sultan Mehmed), had a deep interest in religious and charitable works, and Muradiye Camii reflects his spiritual devotion. Like many major Ottoman mosques, Muradiye Camii was part of a larger complex (külliye) that included a madrasa (religious school), a hammam (bathhouse), a soup kitchen, and a cemetery. There are also the tombs of many Ottoman princes and dynasty members.