This tour invites visitors to uncover the captivating history and cultural roots of the Ottoman Empire. Travelers can step into the past as they explore the ornate tomb of Ertugrul Gazi, the father of the empire’s founder. Beyond this, the tour delves into the region’s architectural and religious heritage, visiting mosques that showcase the area’s rich legacy. Along the way, monuments and a museum provide glimpses into the early days of the Ottoman dynasty. For those eager to enjoy Turkey’s storied past, this journey promises an enlightening and unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This tour explores the historical roots of Turkish culture, focusing on the Ottoman Empire’s origins and significant figures like Ertugrul Gazi.
- Visitors can visit the tombs of Ertugrul Gazi, Sheikh Edebali, and Bala Hatun, gaining insights into the region’s rich heritage.
- The tour includes visits to mosques and monuments, showcasing the area’s architectural and cultural significance during the early Ottoman period.
- Participants can enjoy the region’s history and deepen their understanding of the formative years of the Ottoman dynasty.
- The tour includes comfortable transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a included lunch, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Tour Overview
This day tour from Istanbul takes travelers to the historical roots of Turkish culture, exploring the first Ottoman capital of Sogut and the picturesque town of Bilecik.
Along the way, you’ll visit the tombs of influential figures like Ertugrul Gazi, Sheikh Edebali, and Bala Hatun, as well as mosques and monuments that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
Your transportation will be in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and you’ll enjoy a included lunch during the full-day excursion.
With an English-speaking guide to provide insights, this small-group tour offers an immersive glimpse into Turkey’s past, perfect for those eager to discover the origins of the Ottoman Empire.
Key Highlights
The tour features visits to the tombs of Ertugrul Gazi, Sheikh Edebali, and Bala Hatun, offering travelers a chance to pay respects at the resting places of these influential figures from Turkish history.
Visitors will also explore the Kuyulu and Orhan Gazi mosques, which hold significant cultural and architectural value.
Along the way, the tour stops at various monuments and a museum, providing insight into the region’s rich heritage. These key highlights allow participants to enjoy the roots of Turkish culture, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s storied past.
Inclusions
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport visitors comfortably throughout the day. Lunch is provided, and all necessary entrance fees are covered.
Plus, an English-speaking guide accompanies the group, offering insights and historical context along the way. This ensures a seamless and enriching experience as you explore the roots of Turkish culture.
The inclusions are designed to make the tour as convenient and informative as possible, allowing you to fully learn about the fascinating history and landmarks without worrying about logistics.
With these carefully curated elements, the Ertugrul Gazi Tomb, Sogut and Bilecik Tour promises an unforgettable journey into Turkey’s captivating past.
Exclusions
Breakfast and beverages during lunch are not included in the tour package, requiring travelers to cover these costs independently. While the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide, the exclusions are an important consideration for those planning their budget. To help illustrate the key exclusions, here’s a table outlining the cost breakdown:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | TBD |
| Beverages during Lunch | TBD |
| Additional Snacks/Drinks | TBD |
| Personal Expenses | TBD |
| Tips for Guide | TBD |
Keeping these exclusions in mind will ensure travelers have a clear understanding of the overall expenses involved in this immersive Ertugrul Gazi Tomb, Sogut and Bilecik Tour from Istanbul.
Tour Details
This tour offers a small-group experience, catering to a maximum of 8 travelers at a time. Guests can expect hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to their day exploring the roots of Turkish culture.
The full-day tour starts at 8:00 am, providing ample time to visit the historic sites. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.
Travelers can conveniently reach the meeting point via public transportation. Most guests can easily participate in this immersive cultural experience, which includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide to bring the history to life.
Ertugrul Gazi Tomb
Though steeped in historical significance, Ertugrul Gazi’s tomb in Sogut stands as a humble monument to the revered founder of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors are immediately struck by the tomb’s simple yet dignified design, a reflection of the man it honors. The mausoleum’s location within a serene garden setting only adds to the sense of reverence and tranquility.
Some key highlights of the Ertugrul Gazi Tomb include:
- Ornate calligraphic inscriptions adorning the tomb’s interior
- The nearby mosque, where Ertugrul Gazi himself is believed to have worshipped
The opportunity to learn about the life and legacy of this important historical figure.
Stunning views of the surrounding countryside, which evoke the spirit of Ertugrul’s era.
A chance to connect with the roots of Turkish culture and the origins of the Ottoman Empire.
Kuyulu and Orhan Gazi Mosques
The Kuyulu and Orhan Gazi Mosques are two significant religious sites that visitors can explore as part of the Ertugrul Gazi Tomb, Sogut, and Bilecik tour.
The Kuyulu Mosque, named after the adjacent well, dates back to the 14th century and showcases the architectural style of the early Ottoman era.
Just a short distance away, the Orhan Gazi Mosque stands as a testament to the powerful second ruler of the Ottoman Empire, who helped solidify the young state’s foundations.
Both mosques offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, providing a deeper understanding of the formative years of the Ottoman dynasty.
Monuments and Museum
Along the tour, visitors can explore a variety of monuments and a museum that shed light on the region’s rich history.
The Sogut Monument commemorates the founding of the Ottoman Empire, while the Bilecik Museum houses a collection of artifacts that chronicle the early days of this influential Turkish dynasty.
The Orhan Gazi Monument honors the second Ottoman sultan.
The Ertugrul Gazi Monument pays tribute to the father of the Ottoman Empire’s founder.
The Bala Hatun Monument is dedicated to the wife of Ertugrul Gazi.
The Mausoleum of Sheikh Edebali is a renowned philosopher and spiritual guide.
The Bilecik Museum’s display of Ottoman-era carpets, ceramics, and other cultural treasures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own food on the tour. The tour includes a provided lunch, so bringing outside food is not permitted. The tour company handles the meal arrangements for participants.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, as visitors explore historical sites and monuments. Participants should expect to walk up to 2 miles during the day, with intermittent rest stops. Comfortable shoes are recommended for this activity-filled tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, including infants, as long as they can participate comfortably. Children’s car seats are available for those who need them.
Can I Reschedule or Cancel the Tour if Needed?
Guests can reschedule or cancel the tour if needed. There are typically flexible policies in place, with potential fees depending on timing. It’s best to check the tour provider’s terms and conditions for specifics.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?
The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. However, infant seats are available, and most travelers can participate. The tour involves walking and visiting historical sites.
Recap
This captivating tour offers a chance to explore the rich historical roots of Turkey.
Visitors can marvel at the ornate calligraphy on Ertugrul Gazi’s tomb, explore the region’s architectural and religious heritage, and discover the early days of the Ottoman dynasty through monuments and a museum.
It’s a unique opportunity to take in the country’s captivating past.
