Story and history of Cumalıkızık
Located in Bursa’s Yıldırım district, Cumalıkızık was established in the 1300s by the Kızık tribe of Oghuzs. It was one of seven Kızık villages formed in the region at that time; it is known that the word ‘kızık’ indicated the villages established on the mountain slopes. Of those seven villages, five – Cumalıkızık, Derekızık, Hamamlıkızık, Fidyekızık and Değirmenlikızık – have survived to the present day.
The name of Cumalıkızık is believed to come from ‘Cuma’, as the village was the central place where Kızık villagers gathered for the Friday (Cuma) prayers.
Founded at the dawn of the Ottoman Empire, Cumalıkızık Village is considered one of Türkiye’s most significant cultural values, with its historical texture and traditional lifestyle. Featuring stellar examples of early Ottoman civil architecture, the village’s beautifully preserved Ottoman-era homes, mosques, baths, fountains and other structures attract great interest from local and foreign tourists. As mentioned, Cumalıkızık Village is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Where is Cumalıkızık?
Cumalıkızık Village is in the Yıldırım district of Bursa, set on the northern slopes of Uludağ and about 10 kilometers from the Bursa city center.
Getting to Cumalıkızık
Minibuses operate between Cumalıkızık Village and the Bursa city center, Güzelyalı, Mudanya and Kestel. From the Bursa center, the drive to the village takes around 20 minutes. Another option is to take the metro from Bursa to the Cumalıkızık station and catch the minibus from there.
It is also easy to get to Bursa from Istanbul by road, as well as via ferries departing from different points such as Yenikapı and Kadıköy. The distance between Istanbul and Bursa is approximately 155 kilometers.
Places to visit in Cumalıkızık Village
Historic Cumalıkızık Houses
The historic Cumalıkızık houses are a picturesque sight and a symbol of the village. Many of the homes are brightly painted and have classic bay windows. Some of the houses have lower levels constructed from stone.
Cumalıkızık Mosque
The Cumalıkızık Mosque is one of the most prominent places to visit in Cumalıkızık. Set in the village square, Cumalıkızık Mosque was built in 1396 and is one of the oldest buildings in Cumalıkızık. The single-balcony minaret of the mosque is among the finest surviving examples of Ottoman architecture.
Cumalıkızık Hammam
Built in the 15th century, the rubble stone Cumalıkızık Hammam is a typical Ottoman bath. Like the Cumalıkızık Mosque, the historical bath is in the village square.
Cumalıkızık Ethnography Museum
The Cumalıkızık Ethnography Museum successfully reflects the characteristics of traditional Ottoman village life. The museum’s collection includes clothing, household items, kitchenware and handicraft products from the Ottoman period. The Cumalıkızık Ethnography Museum is open every day except Monday.
Küpeli Ev (House with Earrings)
Built in the 17th century, Küpeli Ev (House with Earrings) is one of the most important historical buildings in Cumalıkızık and the oldest house in the village. Used for 14 generations, Küpeli House is undoubtedly one of the first places to visit in Cumalıkızık.
Saitabat Waterfall
While visiting Cumalıkızık Village, you can also take a trip to Saitabat Waterfall. This striking natural wonder features water flowing from a height of about 20 meters. Saitabat Waterfall is about 15 kilometers from the village and can be reached via minibus.
Shopping in Cumalıkızık
Homemade food and other handicrafts are popular in Cumalıkızık Village. You can find a range of authentic items – from soaps to hand-knitted items, and from homemade pickles to breakfast products – at the market area near the village entrance and in various shops within the village.
Dining in Cumalıkızık
You can sample the most delicious examples of traditional Turkish cuisine in Cumalıkızık, including classic dishes such as mantı, gözleme and stews. The village is also known for its famous traditional Turkish breakfasts, so keep in mind that you may need to rise early to get a table for breakfast, especially on the weekend!
