Iznik Museum

It is not wrong to say that one of the oldest buildings in Bursa was restored and the Iznik Museum was created today.... The building that remains since 1388 attracts all those who see it with its mystical atmosphere.

This building, which Sultan I.Murat built for his mother Nilüfer Hatun in 1388, begins to respond to very different needs with the Republican period. It is used as a warehouse for a long time during this period. Its use as a museum takes place in 1960. The recognition of this place, which is considered as one of the most successful examples of Ottoman architecture, begins to increase after it becomes a museum.

Within the museum, archaeological artifacts collected especially from Iznik and its environs are brought together. In the garden part of this important museum, various reliefs, tombstones or sarcophagi belonging to the Roman and Byzantine periods besides the Ottoman are presented to the visitors. Many artifacts unearthed from Ilipınar Höyük(Mound) are exhibited in the museum. On the other hand, coins and jewelry find their own place in certain parts of the museum. Those who are curious about the examples of Iznik tiles can also visit the museum. The works obtained from all ongoing excavations both in and around Iznik are transferred to the museum.

Iznik Museum can be visited between 10:00 and 17:00. The museum is open every day of the week except Monday. There is a marble inscription about one and a half meters in length at the door in the eastern part. The information here reinforces the knowledge that the building remains from the 14th century. The place is square in general. The structure, noted by mirrored arches, is covered by a transitional dome. A large lighting lighthouse draws attention in the main part of the building. The colorful stone and brickwork reflects Byzantine architecture. Within the museum it is also possible to witness balustrade slabs, well bracelets or column heads. It is understood that the works exhibited in the main part cover the period from prehistory to the end of the Byzantine period.