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Discovery of Edirne

Updated: Aug 28

🗓️ 2 day

📍7 station

💰 Average price

🌎 General route

☁️ All seasons

👣 Approximately 37.600 steps

 

Edirne is a city that captivates with its historical richness, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, this city is home to magnificent structures such as the Selimiye Mosque. Walking along the banks of the Meriç River and through the Karaağaç district, you can feel the traces of history at every step.


As you stroll through the streets of Edirne, you'll encounter traditional markets and delightful culinary stops. You can start your gastronomic journey with Aydın Tava Ciğer and explore the city’s famous flavors, while also enjoying time in historic coffeehouses. The Kent Forest, just a few steps from the city center, offers a pleasant escape into nature.


The Selimiye Mosque, located in Sarayiçi, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and dazzles with its architectural splendor. Additionally, the city's historical buildings and streets, rich with the scent of the past, bring the magic of history into the present.


Edirne stands out not only for its historical and cultural values but also for its vibrant festivals, rich cuisine, and hospitable people. This city offers a destination that will connect you with history and provide an unforgettable travel experience. Every moment spent in Edirne presents an opportunity to discover the unique beauty of this city.


🚗 Day 1 - 4 stops


  1. Beyazıt Social Complex and Hospital



One of Edirne's historical treasures, the Complex and Health Pavilion of Sultan Bayezid II, is a significant site that brings the architectural grandeur and health culture of the Ottoman Empire into the present day. This sacred space offers a unique experience not only for history enthusiasts but also for those interested in architecture and the history of health.


Constructed in 1488 by Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II, the Bayezid II Complex consists of a grand mosque, a madrasa, an imaret, a hospital (şifahane), a charitable foundation (darüşşifa), an elementary school (sıbyan mektebi), a recitation school (dârü'l-kurra), a hadith school (dârü’l-hadis), and a bathhouse (hamam). This complex is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and urban planning.


The mosque's magnificent dome and minaret dominate the city's skyline, while the tile decorations and details inside offer visitors a glimpse of the aesthetic richness of the Ottoman era. The madrasa reflects the educational system of the period and sheds light on the scholarly and cultural life of the time.


The hospital (şifahane) is a key structure that represents the health culture of the period. The medical tools and treatment methods used here provide insight into Ottoman health practices. Designed not only for physical health but also for spiritual well-being, the şifahane serves as a place of holistic care.


The Bayezid II Complex and Health Pavilion significantly contribute to Edirne's cultural heritage with its historical atmosphere and architectural elegance. Visitors exploring this sacred site discover not only the traces of the Ottoman period but also the health and educational concepts of that time. The Bayezid II Complex and Health Pavilion, preserving the magic of the past, is a treasure that attracts history and culture enthusiasts.


2. Selimiye Mosque



Dominating the skyline of Edirne, the Selimiye Mosque stands as one of the most magnificent mosques of the Ottoman Empire, continuing to captivate visitors with its architectural splendor and historical significance. This grand structure represents the pinnacle of Ottoman architecture and is considered one of the most important architectural works in history.


Commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Selim II and designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan in 1568, the Selimiye Mosque was conceived not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural and artistic center. Sinan's mastery is evident in every detail of the mosque, from its dome to its minarets, and from its ablution fountain to its courtyard.


The mosque's immense dome holds the distinction of being the highest dome in Ottoman architecture, highlighting the bright and airy atmosphere of the interior. The windows, adorned with colorful stained glass, bathe the worshippers in natural light, while the expansive courtyard offers a meditative space for visitors.

The mosque's four minarets stand as monumental landmarks visible from every corner of Edirne. The intricate decorations on the minarets are considered some of the finest examples of Ottoman art. Inside the mosque, the rich tile work, calligraphy, and detailed wood carvings provide a visual feast of Ottoman artistic excellence.


In addition to its architectural grandeur, the Selimiye Mosque hosts cultural and artistic events, contributing to the cultural life of Edirne. The fountains and mausoleums surrounding the mosque further complement this magnificent Ottoman creation.


The Selimiye Mosque is not only a marvel of Edirne but also an architectural masterpiece admired around the world. Built with Mimar Sinan's unparalleled skill and the architectural vision of the Ottoman Empire at its zenith, this mosque invites history and architecture enthusiasts on a mesmerizing journey.


3. Three Balconied Mosque



Three Balconied Mosque, Edirne's historical heritage and a significant religious structure reflecting the rich architectural legacy of the Ottoman Empire. This mosque is renowned for its three-tiered minarets and aesthetic details, making it one of the unique examples of Ottoman art.


Built by Ottoman Sultan Murat II in 1437 and designed by Architect Isa, the mosque represents the architectural tastes and power of the Ottoman Empire during its time. The mosque derives its name from its four minarets, specifically the one with three balconies, which gives the mosque its distinctive character.

The interior of the mosque is adorned with elegant decorations reflecting the architectural aesthetics of the Ottoman period. The columns, mihrab, and minbar inside demonstrate the high level of stone carving and ornamentation of that era. The mosque’s interior also showcases intricate tile work and calligraphy, offering visitors a glimpse into the richness of Ottoman art.


The mosque’s courtyard features important aesthetic elements, including a fountain that exemplifies the period’s water architecture. Additionally, the surrounding tombs and gravestones provide insights into the social fabric of the Ottoman period.


The mosque's four minarets add a unique charm to Edirne’s skyline. Each minaret, adorned with distinct details, showcases the intricacies and richness of Ottoman architecture. The dome rising from the mosque’s courtyard stands as a monument in the city’s sky.


Three Balconied Mosque not only contributes significantly to Edirne's heritage but also to the architectural legacy of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors to this mosque have the opportunity to experience a unique insight into Ottoman architectural, artistic, and historical traditions.


4. Aydin Fried Liver



As you wander through the streets of Edirne, you'll encounter Aydın Tava Ciğer, a distinguished spot offering a unique culinary experience and one of the most special flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine. This establishment is a pinnacle of Edirne's gastronomic richness and invites you to explore local flavors.

Named after the historic Aydın Kapı district of Edirne, Aydın Tava Ciğer carries forward the flavor tradition of this area. The restaurant is renowned for its expertise in preparing tava ciğer (fried liver), promising an unforgettable experience by serving this dish in its best form.


The tava ciğer on the menu features a crispy exterior and a tender, soft interior. The secret to its flavor lies in the carefully selected liver and its preparation using traditional methods. Aydın Tava Ciğer enhances the taste with fresh spices and special sauces, delighting the palate.


The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant offers traditional Turkish hospitality. Decorated to reflect Edirne's historic ambiance, the venue is a popular meeting place for both locals and visitors. Especially during lunch and dinner hours, Aydın Tava Ciğer is a bustling spot that proudly represents Edirne’s culinary heritage.


Aydın Tava Ciğer stands as a flavorful destination on Edirne's gastronomic map. The beloved tava ciğer, one of the staples of traditional Turkish cuisine, meets a special flavor wave in the hands of its skilled chefs. Aydın Tava Ciğer is a delectable stop that leaves an unforgettable impression on the palates of both locals and travelers alike.


🚗 Day 2 - 3 stops


1. Meriç River



Meriç Bridge, an iconic landmark in Edirne, showcases the Ottoman Empire's engineering prowess. Completed in 1443 by Mimar Sinan under Sultan Bayezid II, the bridge spans the Meriç River and connects key parts of the city, including the historic Sarayiçi and Selimiye Mosque.


Not just a functional structure, Meriç Bridge is celebrated for its elegant arches and intricate stonework, reflecting Ottoman craftsmanship. It serves as both a historical symbol and an architectural marvel.

Visitors can enjoy scenic river views from the bridge's pedestrian pathways and experience Edirne's rich cultural heritage. The bridge stands as a testament to the city’s historical and aesthetic legacy, admired by both locals and tourists.




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