Bursa celebrated the 700th anniversary of its conquest on April 4, 2026, with a series of commemorative events that highlighted the city’s foundational role in regional history. The festivities underscored the historical significance of the city, marking the era when the Ottoman Empire took its first steps onto the stage of history.
A centerpiece of the anniversary was a high-tech visual tribute organized by the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality. The city’s Tophane walls and the walls of Pirinç Han were converted into massive projection screens, where light shows narrated the 700-year epic of the city for the public.
The formal celebrations commenced with a traditional “Conquest March,” which began at Balaban Bey Castle. The program, coordinated by the Bursa Governorate and the Metropolitan Municipality, saw the participation of Provincial President İsmail Kaya and GİK. These milestone events were marked by various official ceremonies and visits across the city.
In addition to the public festivities, the anniversary included academic and environmental tributes. A symposium titled “Seven Faces of Bursa” was held to provide historical insight into the city, while saplings were planted in Karacabey to commemorate the occasion.
The diverse array of events reflects the city’s commitment to preserving its historical legacy while integrating modern storytelling to engage new generations.
