Upcoming concerts in Bursa 2024

About Bursa

MUSIC

Bursa, a city nestled at the foot of Mount Uludağ, possesses a vibrant Turkish folk scene, featuring instruments like the saz and kemence, which echoes through the city's historic streets and tea gardens, capturing the essence of Anatolian melodies. Bursa is also a hub for classical Turkish music, with local musicians performing classical compositions and folk songs at cultural events and festivals. The city's music venues, such as Atatürk Congress and Culture Center, host various performances, including concerts, theater, and dance shows, enriching Bursa's cultural landscape. Bursa's music festivals, like the International Bursa Festival, attract artists from across Turkey and the world, making the city a dynamic center for musical expression and cultural exchange.

Bursa has also contributed to the Turkish pop music scene, featuring bands that blend Anatolian rock with EDM, creating a unique and innovative sound. Their fusion of traditional and contemporary elements mirrors Bursa's ability to embrace both its historical roots and modern influences, making them prominent figures in the city's music scene.

CULTURE

The city's historical sites, including the UNESCO-listed Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire, showcase its significance as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Bursa's Great Mosque (Ulu Cami) and the Green Mosque (Yesil Cami) stand as architectural marvels, reflecting the city's Islamic heritage and Ottoman architecture. Bursa is renowned for its thermal baths, known as hamams, offering a relaxing experience rooted in centuries-old traditions. The city's culinary scene features renowned dishes like Iskender kebab and candied chestnuts, inviting food enthusiasts to indulge in authentic Turkish flavors. Bursa's bustling bazaars, such as the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) and Koza Han, offer handmade textiles, silk products, and local crafts, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.

HISTORY

Founded by King Prusias I of Bithynia in the 3rd century BCE, Bursa became an important center during the Roman and Byzantine periods. In 1326, it became the first capital of the Ottoman Empire under Osman Gazi, shaping the city's identity as a significant political and cultural hub. Bursa played a crucial role in the development of Ottoman architecture, with landmarks like the Grand Mosque and the Green Mosque exemplifying the city's architectural heritage. The city's thriving silk industry made it a prominent trading center along the Silk Road.