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Marmara is a region in North Western Turkey with a regions capital being Istanbul. Being the location which both Byzantine and Ottoman Empires centred around, Marmara Region has quite a lot of imperial monuments from each. Ottoman monuments can be found almost anywhere in the region and are best seen in Bursa, Edirne, and Istanbul—the three consecutive capitals of the empire, Byzantine monuments are mostly in Istanbul. Bordering Greece and Bulgaria, the land in Thrace is covered by wide fields of sunflowers and vineyards, while olive groves are found extending all over the region, like the gardens in Balikesir on the Anatolian side.
Uludag, one of the main peaks of Turkey, is the most prominent mountain in this region, and one of the most popular ski-resorts with every kind of convenience provided. At the foot of Mount Uludag, "Green" Bursa is located, with its dense forests covering the mountains and wide meadows, which give it its title. The famous city of Istanbul still standing in all its grandeur - equally mystifying in its natural beauty and historic glory - is a part of the Marmara region. Istanbul is an exciting, multicultural city, filled with exceptional tourist attractions and character. Virtually all of the tourist attractions within Istanbul are of a historical nature, dating back to several different epochs. Hamams, or Turkish baths, continue to pamper guests as they have for centuries and a walk through the city's marketplaces offers an authentic glimpse into Turkey's eclectic culture.
Places of interest
- Gallipoli — site of WWI memorials and 1915 Anzac landing.
- Troy — ruins of what was the legendary Trojan War was fought for.
- Uludag mountain ( about 2,550 metres) near Bursa - a national park and the main wintersports resort of Turkey.
- Gokceada — deserted Greek villages on a mountanious island.
- Princes’ Islands — a paradise getaway featuring pine-covered islands with elegant mansions.
- Istanbul Spice Market, locally known as Misir Carsisi, functioning from 1600s offers more than herbs and spices. Handicrafts, dried fruits, Turkish Delight and caviar are all regular items.
- Suleymaniye Bath in Istanbul - 16th-century traditional Hamam, the only one that has integrated the sexes, allowing families to enjoy the facilities together.
- Dolmabahce Sarayi - built in the 19th century by Adbul Mecit and today remains an imposing, hard-to-miss attraction.
- Grand Bazaar one of the world's largest covered marketplaces.
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More regions of Turkey, Aegean Coast, Istanbul & Marmara, Mediterrean Coast
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