The Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb: Birthplace of the Ottoman Empire
Location and Historical Development
The Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb is dedicated to Ertuğrul Gazi, the father of Osman Gazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. It is located in the town of Söğüt in Bilecik province. While the exact construction date is unknown, it is believed to have been built around the time of the establishment of the Ottoman Beylik. Ertuğrul Gazi founded a Turkmen principality in this region, laying the groundwork for the Ottoman Empire.

Who Was Ertuğrul Gazi?
Ertuğrul Gazi was a bey from the Kayı tribe of the Oghuz Turks. He was one of the Oghuz Turkmen who migrated to Anatolia following the weakening of the Seljuk Empire. He settled in Söğüt and its surroundings, establishing a principality there. With the support he gave to his son Osman Gazi, he laid the foundations of the Ottoman Empire.

Importance and Architectural Features
The Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb is not merely a tomb but also a significant historical structure from the early period of the Ottoman Empire. The tomb has a hexagonal plan and is covered with a dome. Its walls are made of one layer of stone and two layers of bricks. Although the tomb was damaged during the Greek occupation and the grave was broken, it was restored in later years.

The importance of the tomb lies in its association with the father of the founder of the Ottoman Empire and its symbolic value in Ottoman history. The tomb holds a significant place in Turkish-Islamic history and is visited by many people.

Visiting Points and Current Status
The Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. Visitors have the opportunity to see the lands where the first steps towards the establishment of the Ottoman Empire were taken and to witness Ottoman history more closely.

Various events are organized around the tomb, offering visitors a different experience. Additionally, a museum dedicated to the tomb exhibits artifacts from Ertuğrul Gazi and the early periods of the Ottoman Beylik.

Why Visit the Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb?
Historical and Cultural Significance: Visiting the lands where the Ottoman Empire was founded allows you to better understand your place in Turkish-Islamic history.
Architectural Beauty: The tomb, with its Seljuk and early Ottoman architectural features, is architecturally significant.
Symbol of National Unity and Solidarity: Ertuğrul Gazi is a symbol of Turkish unity and solidarity. Visiting the tomb allows you to better understand this sentiment.
Historical Awareness: By visiting the tomb, you can witness the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire more closely.
Conclusion
The Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb is not just a tomb but also a journey into the roots of the Ottoman Empire. If you are interested in history and culture, you should definitely visit the Ertuğrul Gazi Tomb when you come to Bilecik.