The Tophane Clock Tower stands on a hill in Tophane Park, in Bursa's Osmangazi district. It was built in 1904 and 1905 and rises six floors above the old town. From the park you look over red roofs, mosques and bazaars, with the mountainside behind. The tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, founders of the Ottoman state, are in the same grounds, along with old cannons, benches and tea gardens. The tower is lit after dark, and the park is open around the clock. It suits a short stop for photos or a longer, slower visit.
Why the tower was built
The first tower on this hill was ordered by Sultan Abdulaziz. It was later demolished and rebuilt, and the version standing today dates from 1904 and 1905. Governor Mümtaz Reşid Pasha had it built to mark the 29th anniversary of Sultan Abdülhamid II's accession to the throne.
The tower has six floors and a square base, with a round clock face on each of its four sides. Because the hill gives a clear view over the whole city, the tower was also used for a time as a fire watch, and Bursa Municipality has used it for fire surveillance.
The tower and its steps
The entrance is on the south side. Inside, a wooden staircase of 89 steps leads to the top. The view from up here covers the old town, with its mosques, bazaars and the mountainside beyond.
From the park itself you can also pick out the Ulu Cami in the distance among the red-roofed houses. The tower is lit in the evening and stands out on the city skyline, which makes it a good landmark for getting your bearings.
Tophane Park and the tombs
The park around the tower is green and well kept, with plenty of benches. Old cannons stand on the grounds.
The tombs of Osman Gazi and his son Orhan Gazi are here. Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi are regarded as the founders of the Ottoman state, so the site matters to many visitors beyond the view. Entry to the tombs is free. Guards in full period dress stand at the site, and visitors can take photos with them. Treat the tombs as a place of respect, with quiet voices and modest clothing.
Walking up from the centre
The route from the city is uphill, and a switchback road climbs to the park. Families who have walked it did it at the start of the day, while energy was high. The easier way is to take the escalator all the way to the top, turn right and continue up to Tophane Park.
The tower sits within Bursa's historic area, together with the Green Tomb, the Grand Mosque, Bursa Han and other sights. A walking route that links these places takes half a day to a full day, so the park fits well as one stop in a longer day. Tea gardens and cafes next to the tower serve Turkish tea and coffee.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
The park is open 24 hours a day, and entry to the Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi tombs is free. The input gives no ticket price for the tower itself.
How do you get to Tophane Clock Tower?
It is in Tophane Park, in Osmangazi. On foot the road from the centre is steep. You can take the escalator to the top, turn right and keep going up to the park.
How many steps are there inside the tower?
A wooden staircase with 89 steps leads to the top. The entrance is on the south side.
When was the Tophane Clock Tower built?
The present tower was built between 1904 and 1905 under Governor Mümtaz Reşid Pasha. It marked the 29th anniversary of Sultan Abdülhamid II's accession.
What is the best time to visit?
Sunset is a good choice, as the city lights come on below the mountains. The tower is also lit at night.
