Discover the timeless allure of Edirne Kaleici, the oldest and most historical district nestled in the city center. Its historical structures captivate the interest of tourists, offering a glimpse into the past. In bygone eras, the district was adorned with two-story wooden houses within gardens, crafted by skilled artisans of Rum, Bulgarian, and Jewish descent during the Ottoman period. However, the permission for urban development after fires and earthquakes has altered the historical fabric of the neighborhood. Today, only a few remnants remain of the Roman walls that once surrounded the district, with an area spanning 26 hectares. Evliya Çelebi, in his Seyahatname, documented that Kaleiçi had six gates, an area devoid of gardens, and 360 intersecting cobblestone streets resembling a chessboard.

Explore Edirne Kaleici
The Edirne Kaleici area, framed by Saraclar Caddesi, Talat Pasa Caddesi, and the railway line, stands as the original medieval town with narrow streets laid out in a linear grid plan. Explore at your own pace, starting your journey by walking south along Maarif Caddesi. This scenic route leads you past ornate wooden houses and concludes at the ruins of Edirne’s Great Synagogue. Notable specimens also grace Cumhuriyet Caddesi, intersecting Maarif Caddesi north of the synagogue.

Edirne Kaleici invites you to step into a world where history unfolds with every step, a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this historic district.