Cumalikizik, located at the foot of Mount Uludağ near Bursa, Turkey, boasts a rich history dating back to the Ottoman Empire‘s foundation. This quaint village is a prime example of early Ottoman rural architecture, attracting tourists for its unspoiled charm.

Originating as a vakıf village, Cumalikizik has meticulously preserved its historical character. The village, along with neighboring clusters like Değirmenlikızık and Derekızık, is collectively referred to as Kızık. The name Kızık refers to one of the twenty-four Oghuz Turk clans and the village inhabitants who share the same name. Cumalikizik gets its name from the Friday (Cuma in Turkish) gatherings held for worship.

Visitors can explore the Cumalikizik ethnography museum, which houses historical artifacts from the village. Every June, the village hosts a lively raspberry festival.

What sets Cumalikizik apart are its iconic houses made from wood, adobe, and rubble stones, with many being triplex structures. The lattice windows and bay windows add character to the architecture. Wrought iron handles and knockers adorn the main entry doors. The village’s narrow cobblestone streets feature medieval gutters for rainwater and waste drainage. Notable historical remnants include a mosque, the ‘Zekiye Hatun’ fountain, and a domed bathhouse, all dating back to the Ottoman era.

The village is also home to a Byzantine church ruin, discovered in 1969, offering a glimpse into the region’s diverse history. Cumalikizik boasts 270 historical houses, some undergoing restoration, while 180 are still used as dwellings.

This charming village is a hidden gem, transporting visitors back in time to the era of the Ottoman Empire, with its unspoiled architecture and rich cultural heritage.