Green Tomb, Bursa

The Green Tomb, known as Yeşil Türbe in Turkish, stands as a remarkable testament to Ottoman architecture in the historic city of Bursa, Turkey. This mausoleum is the final resting place of Sultan Mehmed I, who reigned from 1413 to 1421. Erected in 1421, shortly after the Sultan's death, the tomb is part of a larger religious complex that includes the Yeşil Mosque, a madrasah, and a bathhouse.

Adorned with exquisite tiles in various shades of green, which give the tomb its name, the structure is an outstanding example of early Ottoman art and architecture. The exterior is covered with turquoise and dark blue tiles, creating a striking visual against the backdrop of the surrounding gardens. The Green Tomb is renowned for its cylindrical shape and the conical dome that crowns it, a design that was innovative for its time and later became emblematic of Ottoman tomb architecture.

Inside, the mausoleum is just as captivating, with walls lined with tiles bearing intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns. The interior also houses a dais with a cenotaph, although Sultan Mehmed's actual grave lies below it in the crypt. The tomb's tilework is considered some of the finest from the period, and it has undergone several restorations to preserve its original splendor.

The Green Tomb is not only a mausoleum but also a symbol of Bursa's significance as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. It attracts numerous visitors who come to admire its historical and architectural beauty. The site offers a serene atmosphere, allowing for a moment of reflection on the grandeur of Ottoman history.