Tour Code: TE01
Located in the northwestern part of Türkiye, near the borders with Greece and Bulgaria, Edirne is a city of domes, bridges, and imperial glory. Once the third capital of the Ottoman Empire before Istanbul, Edirne reflects centuries of cultural, architectural, and historical richness — a true open-air museum of Ottoman heritage.
Highlights:
- Selimiye Mosque
- Eski Mosque (Old Mosque)
- Burmalı Mosque (Serpent Mosque)
- Edirne Palace (New Imperial Palace)
- Bayezid II Külliye Health Museum
- Arasta Bazaar & Ali Paşa Bazaar
- Meriç and Tundzha Bridges
- Historic Caravansaries
Edirne City
Known in antiquity as Adrianople, Edirne became the Ottoman capital in 1369 after its conquest by Sultan Murad I and remained so for nearly a century until 1453. With its grand mosques, bridges, and palaces, Edirne showcases the height of Ottoman architecture and urban design.
Selimiye Mosque
Built in 1575 by order of Sultan Selim II and designed by Mimar Sinan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Islamic architecture. Its minarets — at 70.9 meters — are the highest in Türkiye, and its magnificent dome surpasses even that of Hagia Sophia. Inside, visitors admire exquisite marble craftsmanship, İznik tiles, and delicate calligraphy.
Eski Mosque (Old Mosque)
Constructed in the early 15th century, Eski Mosque is one of the oldest surviving Ottoman mosques in Edirne. Its thick columns, low domes, and large Arabic inscriptions on the interior walls make it a remarkable example of early Ottoman religious architecture.
Burmalı Mosque (Serpent Mosque)
Named after its spiral minaret, Burmalı Mosque is another architectural gem, showcasing a mix of Seljuk and early Ottoman styles with its intricate stone carvings and unique design.
Edirne Palace (New Imperial Palace)
Built during the reign of Murad II, the Edirne Palace once served as the residence of Ottoman sultans before the capital moved to Istanbul. Situated in the Sarayiçi quarter, it features remnants of royal halls, gardens, and baths — offering a glimpse into the splendor of the early Ottoman court.
Bayezid II Külliye Health Museum
Part of Trakya University, this complex was built by Sultan Bayezid II and functioned as a hospital and medical school. It’s now a fascinating museum that displays Ottoman-era medical instruments and methods, reflecting a humane and advanced understanding of mental health treatment.
Bazaars and Caravansaries
Edirne’s traditional bazaars — Arasta Bazaar, Bedesten, and Ali Paşa Bazaar — are filled with local crafts, spices, and souvenirs. The city also features elegant 16th-century caravansaries like Rüstem Pasha and Ekmekçioğlu Ahmet Pasha, which once welcomed travelers and merchants from all over the empire.
Historic Bridges
The Meriç and Tundzha rivers flow gracefully around Edirne, crossed by a series of Ottoman stone bridges that stand as symbols of the city’s enduring engineering and beauty — perfect spots for scenic photographs, especially at sunset.
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