Today I walked around Bursa in search of the Green Mosque. It should have been easy to find but since road signs are so few and creepy men are so plentiful, I didn't follow my original planned route. I almost gave up because it was getting dark, but just as I was about to turn back home I spotted it. And who knew, it wasn't even green. The türbe (tomb or mausoleum) is a bluish green color but the cami (mosque) was white.
I was plenty wet and soggy by the time I made it home, but in good spirits. Although finding the mosque was tricky, I've now proved to myself that I can find my way around. Even when I'm not 100% sure where I am, I know enough landmarks that I can find my way back to the apartment. I also know now that walking along the highway, even though google thinks it's a good route, just leaves me confused. Next time I head out to see the Green Mosque I'm heading straight past Zafer Plaza, the mall that we frequent. Familiar well trafficked roads are the way to go. Plus that way the round trip walk will be short than the 3.5 hours I spent traipsing around today.
I'm excited to go back when I have more daylight. I want to explore the area in more detail. It is one of the most touristy areas of Bursa. Maybe if I find a good coffee shop in that neighborhood I can make some English speaking friends!
Hi Aimee!
ReplyDeleteI am living vicariously through you right now! Last year I read Orhan Pamuk's memoir, Istanbul: Memories and the City, and have wanted to visit ever since. Your pictures in this post reminded me of him and his walks around Istanbul. His novels Snow and My Name is Red are also really good. Love hearing about your adventures ... looking forward to reading more! Take care.
Before I left San Diego, my former boss gave me a copy of Orhan Pamuk's book, The Black Book. I haven't finished it yet, but I'll be sure to let you know what I think of it.
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