Edirne was once the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Today, the city is full of historic Ottoman architecture, as well as amazing food, and is famous for its famous butter fight festival, which has been going on for hundreds of years. Check out some of the most important reasons why you should spend a weekend in Edirne.
Stunning Imperial Mosques
As the former capital of the Ottoman Empire, Edirne is full of historic architecture that continues to exude its former glory. Known as one of Mimar Sinan’s greatest works, the Selimiye Mosque of Edirne boasts a truly stunning view and was built between 1569 and 1575. The Üç Cerefeli Mosque is also another amazing example, truly dominating the city centre and was built between 1437 and 1447.
Edirne's Historical Quarters
In addition to the historic mosques, there is the beautiful Kaleici district of Edirne, where you will find wooden houses from the 18th to 20th centuries. In another quarter of the city, Sarayici, you will find the remains of an old palace built by Sultan Muran II, as well as restored Ottoman kitchens, where the real imperial cuisine began.
The tradition of fighting with oil
There is a small museum in Kaleici with a tea garden that displays old photographs and newspaper clippings from a festival held since 1346. This is the famous butter wrestling festival in the town of Kirkpinar in Edirne, where wrestlers from all over the country compete for a gold belt and the title of baspelivan (champion).
Turkish Wine Boutique
Outside of Edirne, you'll find boutique wine in Turkey's historic Thrace region. The place is considered one of the best places to enjoy the grape drink. Visit the Arcadia vineyards to see how wine is made according to a sustainable viticulture philosophy. Excellent reds are also produced at the Barbare vineyards in the beautiful rural landscape of Tekirdag.
Amazing food
From the delicious meze at Gazi Baba, the city’s oldest meyhane (tavern), to the classic and perfectly grilled kofte at Köfteci Osman, Edirne has plenty of delicious food for you to try. Don’t forget to try the famous fried liver at Çirçi Niyazi Usta.
Great Museums
In addition to the small oil wrestling museum, Edirne has many other great exhibits that take visitors back in time. Head to the Health Museum to discover the medical techniques and achievements of the Ottoman Empire. The Edirne Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum lets you see some stunning examples of Ottoman calligraphy, weapons, costumes, and jewelry.
Authentic Ottoman Cuisine
With such a rich past, it’s no surprise that traditional imperial cuisine is also common in Edirne. Sample authentic Ottoman dishes at Edirne’s renowned Tulipa Café and Restaurant, or try Ottoman halva with cinnamon, ginger, mastic and saffron at Keçecizade.
Spotted desserts
Speaking of dessert, Edirne has plenty more sweet delights. Head to Keçecizade or Arslanzade for badem ezmesi (almond paste), Kavala Kurabiyesi (almond cookies covered in powdered sugar), lokum (Turkish delight) and Kallavi (pistachio cookies).
Jewish heritage
Edirne is home to around 20 Sephardic Jews, and the city’s Great Synagogue is a reminder of the rich heritage that has managed to leave its mark on local culture. Having completed a $000 million restoration project, the synagogue is certainly worth a visit.
Beautiful bazaars
There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Edirne, especially at one of the historic bazaars where you’ll find the best of local goods. Wander through the historic Bedesten Çarşısı (Bedesten Bazaar) inside the Old Mosque or the covered Ali Pasha Bazaar, designed by Mimar Sinan in 1569.
