According to some legends, Bursa was first established in Tahtalı village. There was a powerful Sultan with a sick and unfortunate daughter. Legend has it that her body was severely afflicted by leprosy, leaving her disfigured. Because of her illness, she was considered unattractive, and no suitors came forward. As a result, her father disguised her as a beggar and sent her to travel the world in search of her destiny. She wandered far and wide, begging along the way, until she arrived in Bursa, where warm waters flowed. After bathing in these waters for a while, her disease miraculously healed. The Leprous Princess transformed into a stunningly beautiful woman. She decided to settle in the land that had cured her, and according to legend, she was the one who had Bursa Castle built.
Another legend suggests that ancient Bursa was founded by a shepherd from Pergamon. One evening, some of his animals wandered into the king`s garden, and as punishment, he was exiled to an unknown land. The unfortunate shepherd ventured into the dark forests of this unfamiliar country, only to discover its breathtaking beauty. The land was lush, surrounded by fertile forests and rich pastures.
In exile, he found abundance and prosperity, leading to a much more comfortable life. Over time, the village he established grew into a large city. That city, founded by the shepherd, was located in Tahtalı village, just west of present-day Bursa. Indeed, as the legends suggest, ancient Bursa is believed to have existed in this village, where remnants of broad castle walls and old settlements still emerge today.
Source: Living Museum Bursa, page 24
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