The ancient town Kotyaion, which at times was ruled by Romans. But it was only during the reign of Eastern Roman emperor Justinian I, the city was fortified by double lines of walls and citadels. In the second half of 11th century it was seized by Turks, and then by crusaders. Walls were later on many times rebuilt and fortified.
At last in 1428 the city became a part of the Ottoman Empire. It was then when Christian Armenians dealing with production of tiles and ceramics arrived there. Their products was eagerly ordered to mosques, churches and public buildings in the whole Middle East. To this day, the city is famous for manufacture of glazing, multi-coloured ceramics.
If you want to bring a souvenir from Kütahya, look for local merchants (for e.g. at Atatürk Bulvarı street) of lovely, hand-made vessels – both those decorated and for everyday use. You can also step by Ceramics Bazaar (Çiniciler Çarşısı) in the shopping mall Sera AVM. The local ceramics is also a perfect idea for gift from this amazing Turkish town. Remember, that bargaining over prices is welcomed. The more products you buy, the bigger discount you might get.
To see closely local architecture, go to one of the oldest districts. Make sure to walk around Germiyan Caddesi street, where one next to another are situated traditional, Osmanli houses from wood and stucco.
Which mosques are worth to see? Special attention deserved those oldest one, richly decorated – Ulu Camii, Cinili Camii, Balikli Camii or Donenler Camii. You will find them in the city’s centre. Distances between the most interesting temples and museums are not big, you can easily cover them on foot, by the way observing everyday life of citizens. When you get tired by walks, visit Turkish baths for rest. The most known one in Kütahya is Şengül Hamamı.
