Green Mosque & Tomb (Yeşil Cami),Turkey

The complex's striking tile colors inspired the popular name "Green"; locals often point out stories of the tiles' luminosity and the remarkable preservation of the polychrome ceramics. Another common local theme is that the Yeşil Türbe’s ornate decoration and the tomb’s unusual hexagonal plan symbolize the restored dignity and stability of the Ottoman dynasty after a turbulent period. (These are traditions and local interpretations rather than documented historical 'miracles'.)

• Yeşil Cami (Green Mosque) — famed for its interior tile panels, calligraphy and masterful Ottoman dome composition.
• Yeşil Türbe (Green Tomb) — the beautifully tiled mausoleum of Sultan Mehmed I with richly decorated interior sarcophagi.
• Yeşil Külliye (the Complex) — includes the mosque, tomb, madrasa, library and historic bath remnants.
• Surrounding historic district — cobbled streets, bazaars and nearby landmarks such as Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) and Koza Han (silk market).

• Extensive use of green-blue polychrome tiles (early Ottoman/Anatolian tilework) on interior walls and the tomb exterior.
• Hexagonal plan and highly ornate tile mosaics of the Yeşil Türbe — unique sculptural and ceramic decoration.
• Fine examples of Ottoman inscriptional calligraphy and carved stonework around the mihrab and minbar.
• Intimate külliye layout illustrating the social, religious and educational functions of an Ottoman urban complex.

• Guided or self-guided visit to the Green Mosque — admire tiles, calligraphy and architectural proportions.
• Enter the Green Tomb to view the elaborately tiled sarcophagi and interior ornament (note modesty rules).
• Stroll the Yeşil district: visit nearby bazaars, Koza Han (silk caravansary) and the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami).
• Attend or observe prayer times to experience living religious use (be respectful and follow local rules).
• Photography of the exterior and public areas (check signage for interior photography rules).

• Ramadan and Eid celebrations — special activities, lights and a heightened local atmosphere around the mosque.
• Bursa city cultural events and summer arts/festival programs (dates vary annually) often include guided heritage walks.
• Local religious commemorations and occasional restoration exhibitions at the Yeşil Külliye or nearby museums.

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather, fewer crowds and comfortable walking conditions; early morning or late afternoon visits are best for softer light and cooler temperatures.

Bursa has hot summers and mild, wet winters in the city; nearby Uludağ (ski area) gets heavy snow in winter. Expect warm, sunny days in summer and rain in late autumn/winter.

The Green Mosque is a functioning mosque and is normally free to enter for tourists outside prayer times (donations welcomed). The Green Tomb typically charges a small entrance fee and has set visiting hours (commonly around 09:00–17:00), but fees and opening times can change — check locally before you go.

Located in central Bursa (Yeşil district) on a hillside near the historic center. Reachable by city buses, dolmuş (shared minibus) or taxi from the Bursa bus terminal or ferry connections via Mudanya from Istanbul. The nearest commercial airport is Bursa Yenişehir Airport (regional); many visitors arrive via Istanbul (bus/ferry) or by intercity coach. Note: historic sites have uneven cobblestone surfaces and steps — limited wheelchair access in some areas.

Allow 30–60 minutes for the mosque and 20–40 minutes for the tomb; plan 1–2 hours total to explore the complex and immediate surroundings. Combine with nearby attractions for a half-day in Bursa’s historic core.

Dress modestly out of respect for a functioning mosque — shoulders and knees covered, and women should carry a scarf to cover their hair if entering prayer areas. Wear comfortable shoes for cobbles and steps. Bring a light rain jacket in wetter months and sun protection in summer.

Try local specialties like İskender kebap (Bursa’s signature dish), kestane şekeri (candied chestnuts) and regional baklava. Shopping highlights: silk products, hand-painted tiles, ceramics and local sweets from Koza Han and the bazaars near the mosque.