Located in the Aegean region of Turkey is the large metropolis of Manisa. This historically varied city is fortunate to have a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and short, not very cold winters. The area that the city is located in is believed to be originally inhabited since 25,000-20,000BC and has since been inhabited by a numerous people of many backgrounds. This culture and diversity makes Manisa a popular region for travel.
The city of Manisa has much to see from a historical aspect. The fossilized footprints that were found in 1969 in the village of Sindel near Manisa are believed to be from around 25,000-20,000BC. There were more than 50 footprints found and some of them are on display at the Manisa Museum. The rest of the footprints are still in their original setting where there are also prehistoric paintings. This location will purportedly become part of Turkey’s first geopark in a combined venture with the European Commission. Just north of the city of Manisa in the village of Yortan are tombs concurrent with Troy II circa 3000-2500BC. These tombs have offered the knowledge of many aspects of the culture of the time period, although much still remains to be discovered.
The historic part of the city proper is located in a valley along the slopes of the Sipylus mountainside. Here along the flowing waters of the Caybasi Stream you will the ancient bridge of Kirmizi Kopru, or Red Bridge. There are also many tombs and shrines that are done in the Turkish style of the 14th century. The city is proud to celebrate its history and one of its festivals has been celebrated for nearly 500 years, the Mesir Festival. This festival is to celebrate the mother of Suleyman the Magnificent’s mother. There is a spiced paste that is made into the form of candy that is allegedly supposed to restore health, youth, and potency, garnering the paste the nickname of Turkish Viagra. The festival is held annually in March and is a wonderful way to take part and appreciate the culture.
Enjoy travel and exploring with destination reviews from William Bailey Travel.
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