Orhan Gazi Mosque

The Orhan Gazi Mosque is a sanctuary with pointed arches along its veranda and traditional brick construction from the 14th century. The roof is dominated by a central dome surrounded by three smaller domes, while marble work adorns the eastern and western facades.

The building was constructed between 1339 and 1340 under Orhan, who founded the Ottoman state and made Bursa his capital. A later attack caused significant damage that required extensive repairs to restore the structure.

The name comes from its founder, the Ottoman ruler Orhan Gazi, and the space has served for centuries as a place where people gather daily for prayer and community gatherings. Separate prayer sections for men and women reflect longstanding practice in many mosques.

The mosque is centrally located in Bursa across from the Municipal Building and is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Visitors should know that prayer times are when the space feels most alive, though respectful behavior is expected if you are inside during worship.

The structure blends Islamic and Byzantine architectural elements in an unusual way, showing features from both traditions side by side. This combination is a rare example of how two different architectural worlds meet in an early Ottoman monument.