Eskişehir (Province)

Eskişehir is a city in the northwestern part of Türkiye’s Central Anatolia Region, distinguished by its rich history, cultural heritage, infrastructure, and educational institutions. Situated on fertile lands watered by the Sakarya River and its tributaries, it has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history and has served as one of the key routes across Anatolia. Eskişehir has functioned as an important center during the Phrygian, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, and in the Republican era it underwent significant development through major advances in industry and education.

History

Eskişehir in Antiquity

Eskişehir has been an attractive location for settlement throughout history due to its fertile plains watered by the Sakarya River and its tributaries. Its proximity to the central regions of Anatolia and the Aegean made it a crossroads for various civilizations. In antiquity, the region known as “Phrygia Epiktetos” became one of the most important centers of Phrygian civilization. Eskişehir was referred to during this period as “Mountainous Phrygia” and retained its role as a religious center.

According to ancient sources, the earliest known name of Eskişehir is “Dorylaion” (Dorylaeum), which was used during the ancient Greek and Roman periods. In other sources, it appears as “Darauliya” or “Adruliya.” The ancient city gained importance due to its location at the intersection of trade routes, its thermal springs, and its status as one of the wealth centers of Phrygia.

Archaeological excavations have revealed that human settlement in the region dates back to as early as 4000 BCE. Şarhöyük, one of the earliest settlement sites, is considered one of the most important centers of ancient Eskişehir.

Phrygian Period

Eskişehir lay within the boundaries of the Phrygian civilization. The Phrygians arrived in Anatolia in the 12th century BCE and established a kingdom in the areas around Eskişehir, Polatlı, and Ankara. Although Gordion was the capital of Phrygia, Yazılıkaya (Midas City) and Dorylaeum within the modern boundaries of Eskişehir were significant centers. Midas, one of the most famous kings of Phrygia, ruled over these lands, but the Phrygian civilization came to an end in the 7th century BCE following invasions by the Cimmerians.

Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine Periods

Following Alexander the Great’s conquest of Anatolia, Eskişehir came under Hellenistic influence and became familiar with Greek culture. After Alexander’s death, the region was dominated by the Galatians and later the Romans. During the Roman period, Eskişehir experienced its golden age, becoming a major center known for trade and thermal baths.

In 395 CE, with the division of the Roman Empire, the region became part of the Byzantine territories. During this time, Eskişehir suffered from Arab raids and gradually lost its former prominence.

Seljuk and Ottoman Periods

After the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, Eskişehir was incorporated into Seljuk territories and underwent a process of intense Turkification. During the Ghazi era, the city came under Ottoman control and held great significance due to its location within the founding region of the Ottoman state.

Eskişehir in the War of Independence and the Republican Era

Eskişehir remained a prominent city throughout the years of the National Struggle. Its strategic position along the railway connecting Istanbul to Anatolia, its role in internal conflicts, its position as the gateway for the Greek army’s advance into Central Anatolia, and its contributions to the foundation of the new state all enhanced its importance.

Delegates from Eskişehir who attended the Sivas Congress (4 September 1919) under the chairmanship of Mustafa Kemal Pasha included Siyahizade Halil İbrahim Efendi, Bayraktarzade Hüseyin Bey, and Hüsrev Sami Bey.

In 1921, the First and Second Battles of İnönü took place in İnönü, 40 km from Eskişehir. These battles were critical engagements demonstrating the defensive strength of the Turkish army. During the Eskişehir–Kütahya Battles, Eskişehir served as an important resistance point, but the Turkish army was forced to withdraw east of the Sakarya River. Following the Sakarya Battle, which began on 23 August 1921, the Turkish army achieved a major victory in the Dumlupınar Battle on 30 August 1922. On 2 September 1922, Turkish cavalry entered Eskişehir and fully liberated the city from occupation.

After the proclamation of the Republic, Eskişehir became one of Türkiye’s most important industrial and educational centers. In line with industrialization policies, large facilities such as the Eskişehir Locomotive and Motor Factory such as were established, strengthening the city’s economic structure. The founding of Anadolu University in 1958 established Eskişehir’s identity as a student city.

Geographical Structure

Location and Boundaries

Eskişehir is located in the northwestern part of the Central Anatolia Region, between longitudes 29–32 degree east and latitudes 39–40 degrees north. The province borders Ankara to the east, Bilecik and Kütahya to the west, Afyonkarahisar and Konya to the south, and Bolu to the north. Eskişehir has a total area of 13,653 km², accounting for approximately 1.8% of Türkiye’s total land area.

The highest point within the provincial boundaries is Türkmen Dağı Tepesi, at 1,825 meters. The northern natural boundaries are formed by the Bozdağ and Sündiken Mountains, the southern boundary by Emirdağ, the eastern boundary by the Central Anatolian Valley, and the western boundary by the Türkmen Mountains.

Climate

Eskişehir exhibits the typical continental climate characteristics of the Central Anatolia Region. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and moderately snowy. The difference between day and night temperatures is considerable. The annual average temperature is 10.9°C, with the coldest months being January and February, and the warmest months being July and August. The average annual precipitation is 363.3 mm, with the wettest months being May and December, and the driest month being August.

Some districts of Eskişehir exhibit microclimatic characteristics. Particularly Sarıcakaya and Mihalgazi districts have lower elevations and thus enjoy a milder climate. In these areas, crops such as olive, pomegranate, and pistachios—suitable for Mediterranean climates—are cultivated.

Topography

The province’s topography consists of plains within the Sakarya and Porsuk river basins, surrounded by mountains. In terms of land structure, mountainous areas cover 22% and plains cover 26%. The most important rivers are the Sakarya River and its tributaries, Porsuk Creek and Sarısu. The Porsuk Dam and Sarıyar Dam play important roles in preventing floods and generating energy.

The mountains vary in elevation across different regions of the province and extend in an east-west direction, encircling the city. The Bozdağ and Sündiken Mountains in the north, the Sivrihisar and Türkmen Mountains in the south, constitute the main elevations of the province.

Natural Resources and Minerals

Eskişehir is one of Türkiye’s important provinces due to its underground resources. The main minerals extracted in the province include:

• Boron: The Seyitgazi/Kırka region holds one of Türkiye’s largest boron reserves.
• Lignite: One of the province’s symbols, this region contains some of the world’s highest-quality lignite deposits.
• Thorium and Rare Earth Elements: Significant deposits of thorium and rare earth elements have been identified in the Sivrihisar-Kızılcaören region.
• Gold: Extracted in the Sivrihisar-Kaymaz region.
• Magnesite and Chromite: Significant reserves are found in the Mihalıççık and Sarıcakaya areas.
• Perlite, Marble, and Sepiolite: Industrial raw materials extracted in the Mihalıççık and Sivrihisar regions.

Thanks to its underground wealth, Eskişehir holds an important position in industry and exports.

Rivers and Dams

• Sakarya River: The Sakarya River, Türkiye’s third longest river, originates within the boundaries of Eskişehir and flows northward.
• Porsuk Çayı: The most important river flowing through Eskişehir and a major tourist attraction of the city.
• Porsuk Dam: Used to supply drinking water to the city, prevent floods, and support agricultural irrigation.
• Sarıyar and Gökçekaya Dams: Located on the Sakarya River, these dams play a vital role in hydroelectric power generation.

Economic Structure

Eskişehir is one of Türkiye’s most advanced industrial and commercial centers, with an economy based on agriculture, industry, trade, and services. The city’s economic structure encompasses a wide range of activities, from traditional handicrafts to high-tech industrial production.

Industry and Production

Eskişehir has gained prominence since the Republican era through major industrial investments. It hosts large factories in sectors such as aerospace, rail systems, ceramic, white goods, and automotive ancillary industries. The Eskişehir Organized Industrial Zone (EOSB) is one of Türkiye’s largest organized industrial zones and provides space for numerous domestic and foreign companies.

• Aerospace and Defense Industry: TUSAŞ Motor Sanayi A.Ş. (TEI) is one of Türkiye’s most important facilities for aircraft and helicopter engine production. Eskişehir plays a critical role in the defense industry.
• Rail Systems: TÜLOMSAŞ, as the factory that produced Türkiye’s first domestic locomotive, holds a significant position in rail system production. Today, operating as Türkiye Lokomotif ve Motor Sanayii A.Ş., it contributes to the production of high-speed trains, metros, and trams.
• Ceramic and Glass Industry: Eskişehir is one of Türkiye’s major ceramic production centers. Located within the Kütahya-Eskişehir-Bilecik ceramic production triangle, it hosts major companies such as Vitra and Kaleseramik.
• White Goods and Electronics: Factories of major white goods manufacturers such as Beko and Arçelik are located in the city. These facilities produce for both the domestic market and export.

Trade and Service Sector

Eskişehir’s trade sector has developed based on its industrial production. The city is one of Anatolia’s key logistics centers and holds a strong position in domestic and international trade due to its railway and road connections.

• Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce and Agricultural Production: Eskişehir is particularly known for its production of wheat, barley, sugar beet, and sunflower. The city’s sugar factory is one of Türkiye’s oldest and largest sugar production facilities.
• Tourism and Services: In recent years, Eskişehir has attracted attention for its tourism potential. Odunpazarı Houses, modern structures along the Porsuk Çayı, thermal facilities, and cultural events have revitalized the city’s service sector.
• Education and Technology Development: Anadolu University and Eskişehir Technical University have established Eskişehir as one of Türkiye’s leading academic and research centers. The universities’ Teknokent projects contribute to the growth of software and technology startups.

Infrastructure

Eskişehir has a well-developed infrastructure with advanced transportation networks, educational institutions, and urban transit systems. The city has three types of public transportation: tramway, bus, and minibus.

Urban Transportation

Eskişehir’s public transportation system is highly developed. The tramway line is a major public transport vehicle that facilitates access to many parts of the city. Buses and minibuses serve areas not reached by the tramway. The public transportation system enables affordable and economical mobility for both local people and university students.

Universities and Educational Infrastructure

Eskişehir is one of Türkiye’s most important educational centers due to its three major state universities:

• Eskişehir Osmangazi University
• Anadolu University
• Eskişehir Technical University

These universities have brought a large student population to the city, transforming Eskişehir into a youthful, dynamic, and education-focused city.

HISTORICAL STRUCTURES

Kurşunlu Mosque and Külliyesi

Constructed in 1525 by Grand Vizier Mustafa Paşa in the Odunpazarı neighborhood, the complex includes a şadırvan, kitchen, guesthouse, and madrasa rooms in the mosque courtyard. The large domed semahane and open areas behind the mosque indicate its former use as a Mevlevi tekke. The mosque, renovated in 1961–1962, reflects the classical Ottoman architectural style.

Seyyit Battal Gazi Külliyesi

Constructed between 1207 and 1209 on the eastern slopes of Üçler Tepesi in Seyitgazi district, the külliye was built to honor the Islamic hero Seyyit Battal Gazi. Commissioned by Ümmühan, mother of Seljuk Sultan I. Alaeddin Keykubad, the complex was expanded during the Ottoman period and became a major religious and educational center. Today, under the ownership of the General Directorate of Foundations, the site has been open to religious and tourist visitors since its restoration in 1954.

Şeyh Edebali Türbesi

The türbe of Şeyh Edebali, regarded as one of the spiritual leaders of the Ottoman State, is located within the Odunpazarı Cemetery in the Odunpazarı neighborhood. The türbe was restored during the reign of Ottoman Sultan II. Abdülhamid in Tomb.

Yunus Emre Külliyesi and Türbesi

The külliye in the Yunusemre village of Mihalıççık district commemorates the great Turkish Sufi poet Yunus Emre. The area surrounding the türbe contains various structures in külliye form, along with numerous inscriptions reflecting Yunus Emre’s philosophy. The phrase “Gelin Tanış Olalım” encapsulates his messages of tolerance and union.

Nasrettin Hoca’s House

The Turkish humor master Nasrettin Teacher, born in 1208 in Hortu Village of Sivrihisar, received his education in Sivrihisar and Akşehir. His name, renowned for his sharp intellect and witty personality, holds an important place in both Turkish culture and world humor history.

Yazılıkaya (Midas City)

Yazılıkaya, one of the Phrygian settlements, is located 39 km from Çifteler district. The Midas Monument, the largest open-air temple of the Phrygian period, is a rock sanctuary dedicated to the cult of Kybele. Inscriptions written in the Phrygian alphabet are present on the site, offering important insights into Phrygian beliefs and art practices.

Pessinus Ancient City

Pessinus, located in Ballıhisar Village of Sivrihisar district, is an ancient city built by the Phrygians and famous for its temple of Kybele. During the Hellenistic period, Pessinus became a major commercial and religious center and retained its importance during the Roman period.

Administration

Vali

The current governor of Eskişehir is Hüseyin Aksoy, who assumed office on 9 August 2023 by Presidential Decree No. 2023/376. The list of governors since the founding of the Republic includes:

• Arif Nihat Bey (1923–1925)
• Cemil Bey (1925–1927)
• İsmail Hakkı Bey (1927–1935)
• Talat Öncal (1935–1936)
• Kadri Üçok (1936–1938)
• Y. Sezai Uzay (1938–1939)
• Şükrü Yasin (1939–1941)
• Hamit Özkay (1941–1943)
• Danış Yurdakul (1943–1949)
• Ahmet Kınık (1949–1950)
• Arif Özgen (1950–1959)
• İ. Tevfik Kutlar (1959–1960)
• Süleyman Utkun (27 May 1960)
• Raşit Demir (June–October 1960)
• İhsan Özalp (1960–1962)
• İhsan Tekin (1962–1966)
• Osman Meriç (1966–1967)
• Mustafa Karaer (1967–1971)
• Mehmet Saraçoğlu (1971–1975)
• Münir Güney (1975–1978)
• Nazif Demiröz (1978–1979)
• Naim Cömertoğlu (1979–1982)
• Ömer Haliloğlu (1982–1984)
• Hanefi Demirkol (1984–1988)
• Bahaeddin Güney (1988–1992)
• Ali Fuat Güven (1992–1999)
• Sami Sönmez (1999–2003)
• Kadir Çalışıcı (2003–2009)
• Mehmet Kılıçlar (2009–2011)
• Kadir Koçdemir (2011–2013)
• Güngör Azim Tuna (2013–2016)
• Azmi Çelik (2016–2017)
• Özdemir Çakacak (2017–2020)
• Erol Ayyıldız (2020–2023)

Metropolitan Municipality Administration

As of 2024, Eskişehir’s metropolitan municipality administration is led by Ayşe Ünlüce of the Republican People’s Party. The list of mayors since the founding of the Republic includes:

• Prof. Dr. Yılmaz Büyükerşen (1999–2024)
• Orhan Soydaş (1997–1999)
• Aydın Arat (1994–1997)
• Selami Vardar (1973–1977 and 1989–1994)
• Sezai Aksoy (1984–1989)
• E. Tüm Gen. Şefik Aktuğlu (1982–1984)
• E. Tuğ. Gen. İlhan Hakman (1981–1982)
• Hicri Sezen (1977–1980)
• Sebahattin Günday (1965–1973)
• İlhan Tekin (1962–1965)
• İlhan Özalp (1960–1962)
• İbrahim Tevfik Kutlar (1960–1962)
• Arif Özgen (1950–1959)
• Galip Yeginsu
• Mesrur Demirel
• Topçuzade Kamil Kaplanlı
• Hasan Basri Bey
• Dr. Salih Güvenç
• Kamil Erden
• Sait Karamanoğlu
• Halit Ziya Bey
• Kenanzade Süleyman
• Dr. Rıza Tahir Bey
• Takiddin Bey
• Hacı Hafız Ömer Efendi
• Hacı Veli Efendi
• Hacı Müslim Efendi
• Siyahizade Halil İbrahim Efendi
• Tüfekçi Mehmet Nuri
• Damat Beyzade Nuri Efendi
• Asarcıklı Ali Efendi
• Hacı Nafız Hüseyin Efendi

Districts

• Alpu
• Beylikova
• Çifteler
• Günyüzü
• Han
• İnönü
• Mahmudiye
• Mihalgazi
• Mihalıççık
• Odunpazarı
• Sarıcakaya
• Seyitgazi
• Sivrihisar
• Tepebaşı