Eskisehir is a vibrant and charming city located in northwestern Anatolian Turkiye, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. There are many reasons why you should consider visiting Eskisehir:
Historical and Cultural Sites: Eskisehir is home to various historical and cultural attractions such as the Odunpazari district with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, the Eskisehir Archaeological Museum, and the Kursunlu Mosque. The city also has a thriving arts and cultural scene with numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural events.
Odunpazarı Houses: Explore the oldest settlement in Eskisehir, where Ottoman-era houses with colorful facades line the streets. These historic houses are a visual treat for architecture enthusiasts.
Odunpazari Modern Museum: OMM is a contemporary art museum, designed by the Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma and Associates. The museum itself is a work of art with its unique design inspired by the traditional Ottoman wooden houses that are characteristic of the Odunpazari district.
Yılmaz Buyukersen Wax Figure Museum: Get up close to life-sized celebrity wax figures, including historical personalities. The wax figures are so realistic that they appear alive! It’s a unique museum experience.
Contemporary Glass Art Museum: Impressive glass art exhibitions await you here. Established in 2007, the museum showcases contemporary glass creations.
Porsuk River: The Porsuk River flows through the city center and is a popular spot for relaxing boat rides, picnics, and enjoying the scenic views along its banks. The riverside promenade is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Eskisehir Science Arts and Culture Park: This park is a unique and innovative space that combines science, art, and culture in an interactive and engaging way. It’s a great place for families, students, and anyone interested in learning and exploring.
Sazova Park: This park, located to the west of Eskisehir, has a lot to offer. From a castle to a pirate ship to miniaturized attractions, it’s a great place for families and nature enthusiasts.
Kent Park: Known as the largest park in Eskisehir, Kent Park features a big lake and a small river. It’s a relaxing spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
Universities City: Eskisehir is known for its universities and is a student town. Some prominent universities in Eskisehir include Anadolu University, which is one of the largest universities in Turkiye. It offers a wide range of programs in various fields of study. Eskisehir Osmangazi University is another major university, offering programs in fields such as engineering, social sciences, and health sciences. And Eskisehir Technical University is a relatively new university in Eskisehir, focusing on technical and engineering disciplines.
Local Cuisine: Eskisehir is known for its delicious local cuisine, including specialties such as “ciborek” (a pastry filled with minced meat and onions), “tarhana” (a traditional Turkish soup), and various desserts like “lokma” and “pismaniye”. Be sure to sample these local dishes during your visit.
Thermal Springs: Eskisehir is home to several thermal springs and spas where visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters. The city’s thermal baths are known for their therapeutic properties and are a popular destination for wellness tourism.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, nature, modern amenities, or simply enjoying green spaces, Eskisehir has something for everyone. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the city’s unique offerings!
Eskisehir, a city in northwestern Turkiye and the capital of the Eskisehir Province, holds a significant place in the country’s geography and history.
Geography and Location:
The city of Eskisehir is characterized by its picturesque setting along the banks of the Porsuk River, which meanders through the urban landscape, providing a serene and scenic backdrop to the city. The river not only adds to the city’s natural beauty but also offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Eskisehir boasts a diverse topography, with rolling hills and fertile plains surrounding the city. The region’s geography supports agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grains, fruits, and vegetables. The city’s proximity to water sources and arable land has historically made it an important agricultural center in Turkiye.
Eskisehir is situated in the Central Anatolia region, strategically located between Turkiye’s two largest cities, Ankara and Istanbul. It is approximately 205 miles from Istanbul and 137 miles from Ankara. This advantageous location has contributed to Eskisehir’s development as a prominent economic and cultural center in the region.
Climate:
Eskisehir experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The city encounters all four seasons distinctly, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in the winter to hot and dry summers. This climate diversity contributes to the region’s rich biodiversity and agricultural productivity.
Historical Significance:
Ancient Roots: Eskisehir has a long history dating back to ancient times. Known as Dorylaeum in ancient Greek and Roman times, the city has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations, including the Phrygians, Lydian, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines.
Strategic Location: Throughout history, Eskisehir has served as a strategic crossroads due to its location on important trade routes connecting the east and the west. Its position made it a crucial hub for commerce, culture, and communication between different regions.
Seljuk Influence: During the Seljuk period in Anatolia, Eskisehir played a significant role as a prominent city in the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. The Seljuks left their mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and governance, contributing to its historical development.
Ottoman Era: Eskisehir became part of the Ottoman Empire in the early 14th century and continued to thrive as an important center of trade, craftsmanship, and intellectual pursuits. The Ottomans further enriched the city’s heritage through the construction of mosques, madrasas, baths, and other architectural marvels.
Cultural Heritage: Eskisehir’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved architectural landmarks, such as the Odunpazarı district with its traditional Ottoman houses, the Alaeddin Mosque, and the Kursunlu Mosque. These structures showcase the city’s cultural heritage and architectural diversity.
Eskisehir Osmangazi University: The establishment of Eskisehir Osmangazi University in 1970 has contributed to the city’s historical legacy by fostering education, research, and innovation. The university’s presence has further enriched Eskisehir’s intellectual and cultural landscape.
Atatürk Museum: Eskisehir is home to the Atatürk Museum, dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The museum exhibits personal belongings, documents, and artifacts related to Atatürk’s life, providing visitors with insights into his leadership and legacy.
Eskisehir’s historical significance lies not only in its past glory but also in its ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate its cultural heritage. The city’s blend of ancient ruins, Ottoman architecture, educational institutions, and museums offers a captivating journey through time for those interested in exploring Turkey’s diverse history and traditions.
Population and Size:
Eskisehir was home to approximately 900,000 residents, making it one of the larger cities in Turkey.
The city covers an area of around 1,034 square miles, encompassing a mix of urban developments, historical sites, and natural landscapes.
Economy and Culture:
Industry: Eskisehir has a strong industrial base, with sectors such as automotive, machinery, textiles, and food processing playing a significant role in the local economy. The city is home to several industrial zones and manufacturing facilities that contribute to its industrial output.
Education: Eskisehir is also known as a center of education and research in Turkiye. The presence of universities such as Anadolu University and Eskisehir Osmangazi University has a significant impact on the local economy, attracting students, researchers, and investments in the education sector.
Tourism: Eskisehir is a popular tourist destination in Turkiye, known for its historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Tourism plays a key role in the economy of the city, with visitors contributing to the local economy through spending on accommodation, dining, and entertainment.
Transportation and Logistics: Eskisehir’s strategic location as a transportation hub in Turkey contributes to its economy. The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it an important center for logistics and transportation services.
Technology and Innovation: Eskisehir is also emerging as a hub for technology and innovation in Turkey. The city is home to tech startups, research centers, and innovation hubs that are driving growth in sectors such as information technology, software development, and digital services.
Eskisehir Cuisine
Eskisehir is a city in Turkey known for its rich culinary heritage. Here are some traditional dishes and specialties from Eskisehir cuisine:
Ciborek: A savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and spices, then deep-fried or baked and served with ayran or yogurt.
Tatar Boregi: A type of pastry filled with ground beef, onions, and parsley, seasoned with black pepper and baked in the oven.
Pilavustu Doner: Pilavustu doner is a specialty dish in Eskisehir where thinly sliced doner meat is served on a bed of buttery rice pilaf. The doner meat is typically seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked on a vertical rotisserie for a tender and flavorful result.
Mantı: Mantı is a type of Turkish dumpling that is typically filled with seasoned ground meat and served with yogurt and a drizzle of spiced butter sauce. In Eskisehir, you can find variations of manti that are unique to the region, such as larger-sized dumplings or different types of fillings.
Balaban Kebabi: This is a special type of kebab that is unique to Eskisehir. It is made with layers of meat and bread cooked on a vertical spit.
Tarhana Soup: A traditional Turkish soup made from fermented grains, yogurt, and vegetables. It is hearty and flavorful.
Hashasli Corek: A sweet pastry filled with poppy seeds and sugar. It is a popular dessert in Eskisehir.
Sogurme: A traditional dessert made from flour, butter, and sugar, served with walnuts or pistachios on top. It has a unique texture and rich flavor.
Eskisehir Met Helva: A sweet confection made with flour, butter, sugar and nuts.
When in Eskişehir, make sure to visit local restaurants, cafes, and street vendors to savor these delicious dishes and experience the unique flavors of the region. Enjoy your culinary journey in Eskişehir!
