The province of
Balikesir borders both the Marmara and Aegean regions. In the capital of
Balikesir, nature and interesting historical sites blend in harmony. The
mid-l4th century Yildirim Mosque, built by Beyazit I., is the city's
oldest mosque. Of Zagnos Pasa Mosque, built in 1461 by Mehmet the
Conqueror's Grand Vizer Zagnos Pasa, once part of a great complex, only
the mosque and bath remain today. The Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) built in
1827 by Mehmet Pasa imitates the Genoese Galata Tower on a smaller scale.
The Karesi Bey Mausoleum of 1336 contains the cenotaphs of Karesi Bey and
his five sons.
The beautiful Degirmen Bogazi, an area ten kilometers from Balikesir
towards Bursa lies between two hills. Families flock to this scenic spot
and its restaurants during weekends and holidays. Photographers will enjoy
a break at Karakol village to capture the three picturesque windmills on
film. Ancient Penderamus, now called Bandirma, is today an important
commercial and industrial harbor second only to
Istanbul. You can spend a
pleasant afternoon in the town's restaurants and cafes. Belkis (Kyzikos)lies
ten kilometers west of Bandirma. In this ancient city on the Kapidag
peninsula's isthmus,the Temple of Hadrian, a theater and aqueducts still
stand to captivate visitors. The Kuscenneti National Park near Lake Manyas
is an ornithological site where 239 different species of birds flourish.Every
year over three million birds fly through this preserve. April and May are
the best months to enjoy the wildlife. Thirteen kilometers southeast of
Bandirma in Karacabey, horse farms breed magnificent specimens of this
beloved creature.
Once known as ancient Erteka, Erdek is just 14 km northwest of Bandirma.
One of the Sea of Marmara's oldest and most famous resort areas,it offers
pristine beaches and every type of accommodation. Olive groves cover
Zeytinli Island, off Erdek Bay, where quaint cafes and tea gardens enchant
visitors.
