cittaslow cities Marmara

VİZE/İZNİK/ŞARKÖY

Vize

Vize, a town and district in Kırklareli Province on Türkiye's European soil, is located between two former Ottoman capitals: İstanbul and Edirne. Situated between the Black Sea coast and the Istranca (Strandzha)Mountains, the district has a rich historical heritage.

Vize was an important administrative and cultural center starting from the Byzantine period. Settlement in the district begins in the time of the Thracians, and dates as far back as 4000 BC.

Little Hagia Sophia Church (Gazi Süleyman Paşa Mosque in today) is one of the region’s most important historical monuments. It was built by Byzantine emperor Justinian I as an Orthodox church on the site of a pre-existing temple dedicated to Apollo. The structure displays features that are rarely found in Byzantine architecture. The church was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period and was named “Süleyman Paşa Mosque.” The current structure retains decorative features from the Ottoman period.

İznik

The town of İznik, also known as the ancient Nicaea, is located in Bursa along the shore of Lake İznik in the Marmara region of Istanbul. During the Byzantine period, İznik became an important religious centre, where two of the Christian Councils of Nicea were held and Niceen creed was issued. İznik is also among the 8 pilgrimage centers in Türkiye, as well as a part of UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Famous for its handmade pottery and tiles, İznik deserves to be on everyone’s travel bucketlist not only because of its history and culture but also because of its refreshing nature. It is a great destination for those who like to spend quality time in nature, enjoying the laid-back lifestyle of a Turkish town.

İznik is now accepted into the list of Cittaslow cities by 2021. It is very difficult to achieve this badge, however İznik proved to deserve it thanks to its beautiful nature, slow lifestyle that respects the environment, and its rich historic and cultural heritage assets that are preserved with constant care.

Şarköy

Situated along the tranquil shores of Tekirdağ, Şarköy stands out as an enchanting destination, boasting a vast 60-kilometre coastline, much of which is honoured with the prestigious Blue Flag designation. Şarköy provides a perfect escape for those seeking to relax in untouched natural surroundings. Visitors can soak up the sun, relish the clear waters, and enjoy the local abundance of fresh fish and fine olives

Şarköy is not just about scenic landscapes but is also a haven for oenophiles and gourmets. This region, with a winemaking history stretching back to ancient times, is recognized for producing some of the finest wines in the area. Notable historical ties include amphorae from shipwrecks discovered in Yenikapı, thought to originate from Şarköy, underscoring its long-standing viticultural heritage.

Just 13 kilometres from Şarköy, Mürefte offers enchanting beaches and historic charm. Furthermore, Mürefte's appeal is augmented by its wine museums located within local wineries, such as the Feyzi Kutman Wine Museum and Aker Wine Museum. These venues house a rich collection of wine-related artefacts, including Roman amphoras and vintage wine production tools.

For adventure seekers, Şarköy is one of Türkiye’s preferred surfing centres, catering to both seasoned surfers and novices. The consistent winds and welcoming waves create perfect conditions for an exhilarating surf experience. The village of Uçmakdere, in Şarköy, is famed for its annual international paragliding festival, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. A visit to Uçmakdere is incomplete without experiencing a traditional village breakfast, known for its authenticity and local flavors.

As a proud member of the Cittaslow movement, Şarköy invites visitors to experience a slower pace of life, where the beauty of nature, the richness of history, and the warmth of community create a perfect harmony. Whether you are seeking a peaceful getaway, a taste of rural tradition, or a touch of adventure, Şarköy offers a timeless journey into the essence of slow living.