BURSA CUMALIKIZIK

Cumalı kızık is a priceless example of rural civil architecture, built during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Orhan Gazi (1326-1360) in the piedmont of Uludag, Bursa. The magnificent structure, consisting of 270 homes (60 of which are still inhabited today), showcases Ottoman style and has preserved its historical fabric over time.

FEATURES

The words fail to truly capture the essence of Cumalıkızık, but several key features can describe this captivating historical site.

In 1969, a Byzantine era church was discovered in the southeast of the Cumalıkızık settlement. Today, the ruins of the chapel are housed in the Bursa Archaeology Museum. The magnificent location, spanning approximately ten hectares, was named “Kızık” due to its location between a mountain foot and valley, showcasing its natural beauty with its pristine sources and charming homes that symbolize a bygone era.

The other name “Cuma” originates from Friday prayers, where people from the village and surrounding towns would come together to pray. The site is comprised of seven Kızık villages, such as Hamamlıkızık, Derekızık, Degirmenlikızık and Fidyekızık. Additionally, its picturesque setting has been the backdrop for several movies and film stars, such as in the Turkish series “Kınalı Kar.”

In 2000, Cumalıkızık was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Candidate List under the file “The Rise of Ottoman Empire” for its unique buildings and location, which showcase its natural and cultural values.

village houses in bursa cumalikizik ottoman architecture in cumalikizik bursa old building walls around bursa cumali kizik cobblestone roads and a donkey in old town of cumalikizik old people walking around bursa cumalikizik village turkey information board at the entrance of cumalikizik bursa turkiye
LEGEND ABOUT THE CUMALIKIZIK
According to legend, during the Ottoman period, a clan from the Oghuz tribe named Kızık wanted to establish a city in the region of the Karaceli Tribe after migrating there. To avoid conflict between the two tribes, Sultan Ertugrul Gazi (the father of Sultan Osman, the founder of the Ottoman Empire) ordered the marriage of seven handsome Kızık boys to seven beautiful Karaçeli girls. As a result, the Kızık boys established their village, similar to Cumalıkızık.
CUMALIKIZIK HOUSES
In general, the homes of Cumalı kızık are three-story and are built adjacent to each other, creating a powerful atmosphere of peace, brotherhood, collaboration, and good neighbor relations. Family privacy was taken into consideration in the design of the homes, with the ground, first floor, and courtyards in the exterior part of the buildings being separated by bonded timbered walls and rubble stones. The upper storey with its hipped roof and pantiled roofing material is not visible from the outside. Additionally, there are two memorial monuments in the village – a village arena and a fountain located east of the mosque. The mosque, village coffeehouse, and large plane form the traditional Ottoman triad, and can also be found in the center of the Cumalıkızık village. The constructions, which were designed with a natural street configuration by a topographer, are decorated in a manner that reflects the unique characteristics of the region, with all civil architecture examples being distinct from one another.

Stepping into the charming village is a nostalgic experience, surrounded by stone homes, the smell of bread from the small bakery, an ancient winery, and homes of various colors such as blue, pink, red, and purple.

MOSQUE

The mosque in Cumalıkızık is also known as Cumalıkızık Mosque and is believed to have been built over 300 years ago. It underwent renovations in 1916 and was expanded between 1950 and 1955, with changes made to its ceiling and mihrab.

TURKISH BATH AND FOUNTAINS

The village is also home to the famous Cumalıkızık Baths and Zekiye Hatun Fountain, which are known for their healing properties and ability to cure skin ailments.

MUSEUM

Cumalıkızık Ethnography Museum is also located in the village. It showcases various ancient collections, artifacts, tools, weapons, and kitchen utensils, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich history of the area.

WHY VISIT BURSA CUMALIKIZIK?

Cumalıkızık is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. This charming village showcases the best of Ottoman-style architecture and has been well-preserved over the centuries, making it a truly unique and special place to visit. The homes are adorned with intricate wooden details and beautiful courtyards, and the village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with its pure sources, rolling hills, and sweet homes symbolizing old ages. The Cumalıkızık mosque, Turkish baths, and ethnography museum are also must-visit attractions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

Visiting Cumalıkızık is not just about admiring the beauty and history of the place, but it’s also about immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing a different way of life. Walking through the narrow stone streets, taking in the smell of fresh bread from the small bakery, and enjoying a cup of tea in one of the charming coffeehouses will transport you back in time and give you a true taste of the local lifestyle.

At Tour Maker Turkey, we believe that visiting Cumalıkızık is a truly enriching experience, and we would love to help you plan your visit. Our tours are designed to give you the best possible experience of this amazing place, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. So why wait? Book your tour with Tour Maker Turkey today and discover the hidden gem of Cumalıkızık for yourself!