Fodor's Expert Review Ulu Cami

Bursa's most important mosque dates from 1399, when Sultan Beyazıt had it constructed after vowing to build 20 mosques if he was victorious in the battle of Nicopolis in Macedonia. He ended up compromising: this one huge mosque has 20 domes. The interior is decorated with an elegantly understated display of quotations from the Koran in fine calligraphy. The fountain, with taps on the sides for ritual washing before prayer, is inside the mosque rather than outside the entrance—an unusual feature. Avoid visiting at prayer times, when Ulu Cami draws huge crowds.