Main Attractions in Kutahya

Kutahya merges natural splendor and historical magnificence equally in its folds and thus happens to be a great spot for vacationers. If history interests you, come to the ancient city of Aizanoi (named from mythological hero Azan) next to the Cavdarhisar Village. Aizanoi houses the Roman ruins as well as one of the best-preserved Roman temples of Anatolia - the temple of Zeus. Built to worship Zeus and Anatolian fertility Goddess Kybele, the temple dates back to the period of Hadrian. At a short distance from this temple, stands the combined structure of a stadium cum theatre, which dates back to 3rd century and is unique in itself. Aizanoi antic city also happens to be the foremost place in the world where a gold exchange market (Mycelium) was established.

Next, you can move on to visit the Kutahya Castle (Hisartepe locality), which has 70 towers, two fountains and 3 mosques. The castle is divided into three parts - Kale-i-bala, Kale-i-sagir and Dis towers. The old city palace (1911) of Kutahya is also well preserved and bears testimony of Ottoman civil architecture. The 18th century wood and stucco houses of Kutahya on the Germiyan Street are definitely worth visiting. These picturesque houses are the best example of Kutahya's ancient urban structures. On the same Germiyan Street stands the Hungarian house of revolutionary Lajos Kossuth, which has now been turned to a must-visit Kossuth museum.

There are hundreds of historical caves in Frig Valley, some 55 kilometers distant from Kutahya. These hand carved caves, which were used as shelter, accommodation and tombs, entail 3 sections of rocks. The first section contains two churches with frescoed walls, the second section contains the Deliktas Castle with several passages and galleries and the 3rd section houses the natural castle of Penteser whose natural beauty is unparallel.

Apart from these, there are several Islamic historical remains like the Byzantine Fortress, the Cinili cami (1973), the great Ulu cami (restored by famous architect Sinan), Balikli mosque, the Ottoman Bedesten, Donenler cami (14th century) and Sengul bath, which are worth visiting. You also must visit the Kutahya museum of arts and artifacts.

Besides historical treasures, the region overflows with natural bounties, too. Mt Murat (2312 meters) with its clean air, fresh water and numerous bird species is not only the highest mountain in this region but is also a picturesque spot. Equally magnificent is Camila (west of Kutahya), a large promenade area amidst the pine forest. It has been arranged as a recreation and resting area and offers great sightseeing opportunities.

There are several other beautiful places in Kutahya like Enne dam, Porsuk dam, Kurucay pond (picnic spot), Golcuk plateau (picnic spot), Kasalic natural protection area and Mizikcam natural monument. Kutahys is also endowed with thermal springs like oncali, Gediz Ilicasu, Simav Eynal, Tavsanli Göbel, Emet, Yesil and Kaynarca.