“…There are many notable citizens and cavalrymen… The city has 17 neighborhoods. Its houses are connected, with gardens, and prosperous… Surrounded by roses, flower gardens, orchards, and fields, it is a city with abundant grains…”
This observation comes from the famous traveler Evliya Çelebi in the 16th century. While Odunpazarı today looks very different from the thriving settlement described back then, its historical charm and cultural heritage still make it a fascinating place to explore.
The History of Odunpazarı
Odunpazarı is the oldest settlement in Eskişehir, located in the Central Anatolia Region. The district’s name originates from the practice of locals selling firewood brought from nearby mountains. Today, its Ottoman-era houses are the main reason tourists flock to the area, drawn by their unique architecture and historical significance.
These houses have survived through the centuries, sometimes standing tall, sometimes slightly leaning, but all preserving their distinctive aesthetic and cultural value. Walking through Odunpazarı is like stepping back into history.
Architectural Features of the Historic Houses
Most of the houses in Odunpazarı are adjacent-style, two-story structures. The ground floors were traditionally used as storage, kitchens, or cellars, while the upper floors served as living spaces. Today, many of these houses are still homes, but they also act as bridges to the past, connecting visitors to the daily life and cultural codes of previous centuries.
Bay Windows (Cumbas) and Social Status
One of the most distinctive architectural features is the bay window (cumba). Bay windows made the main room, often used for receiving guests, visible from the outside. The size of the cumba reflected the wealth and social standing of the homeowner.
Doors and Gardens
Larger mansions were accessed through garden gates, while modest homes opened directly onto the street. Observing the wooden or iron doors, door handles, and knockers, each with unique artistic detail, offers a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the past.
Odunpazarı Today
While some houses remain private residences, many have been transformed into art galleries, cafés, or souvenir shops. Most buildings in the district have been restored, and Odunpazarı is protected as a “Historic and Urban Conservation Area.”
Kurşunlu Complex
Located in the heart of the district, the Kurşunlu Complex is a key attraction. Built in the early 1500s, it includes a primary school, fountain, mosque, and caravanserai. Some sections now function as the Lüle Taşı Museum and Wooden Artifacts Gallery, open for visitors to explore.
Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM)
Opened in 2019, the Odunpazarı Modern Museum showcases both traditional and contemporary art. Its wooden façade complements the historical ambiance of the district, while the exhibitions offer cultural insights and modern artistic experiences.
Tips for Exploring Odunpazarı
- Walk the narrow streets: The best way to experience the historical atmosphere is on foot.
- Notice bay windows and door details: Each house tells a story through its architectural elements.
- Visit the museums: Kurşunlu Complex and OMM are must-see locations.
- Relax in cafés and galleries: Experience contemporary life within historical surroundings.
