Yıldırım Bayezid Türbesi

The tomb of Yıldırım Bayezid, one of the important sultans of Ottoman history, is located within the Yıldırım Külliyesi in Bursa. Bayezid, who died in 1402 after the Battle of Ankara, was initially buried in Akşehir and later reinterred in Bursa by his son Musa Çelebi in the tomb as it stands today.

The tomb was commissioned in 1406 by Bayezid’s eldest son Emir Süleyman Çelebi and constructed by the architect Ali, son of Hüseyin. It is regarded as the first of the revaklı türbeler (covered portico tombs), a significant innovation in Ottoman architecture.

(Generated by Artificial Intelligence)

Architectural Features of the Tomb

• Plan and Structure: The tomb has a rectangular plan. The main chamber is square and covered by a dome, which rests on an octagonal drum from the exterior.
• Covered Portico Entrance: In front of the tomb is a three-domed revak (open entrance porch). This feature became a model for later Ottoman tombs. The corners of the revak feature buttress-like supports, while the central section consists of columns joined by rounded arches.
• Materials: The walls are constructed of two courses of cut stone and one course of brick. The floor is covered with brick. The interior is illuminated by nine windows.
• Decorations: Above the entrance are gilded ornamental details and a three-line inscription. The sarcophagi inside are surrounded by brass railings.

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Contents of the Tomb

The tomb contains a total of five sarcophagi:

• Yıldırım Bayezid (d. 1402)
• His son İsa Çelebi (d. 1410)
• His son Musa Çelebi (d. 1413)
• Bayezid’s wife
• An unidentified individual

The Tomb in History

• The tomb underwent repairs in 1649, 1669, 1825 and 1878.
• It suffered extensive damage during the 1855 Bursa Earthquake, and some researchers believe it was subsequently rebuilt.
• The tomb holds a unique position among Ottoman tombs due to its architecture and its pioneering covered portico design.

(Generated by Artificial Intelligence)