They covered the historical graves with stones and turned them into a parking lot.

27.07.2026 20:40

In the Osmangazi district of Bursa, a claim that a historical tomb, which had been left open for a long time, was covered with pebbles and turned into a parking lot came to the agenda. Bursa Volunteer Environmental Inspector Ali Turan stated that according to the neighborhood's allegations, the area containing martyr graves is being used for purposes other than its foundation's intent, and noted that an investigation should be conducted.

An allegation has emerged that a historical tomb in the garden of the Başçı İbrahim Paşa Mosque, located at 1st School Street in the Maksem Neighborhood of Bursa's Osmangazi district, has been covered with pebbles. Speaking on the matter, Volunteer Environmental Inspector Ali Turan stated that the historical tomb should be protected and examined.

“LOCAL RESIDENTS SAY IT IS A MARTYR’S GRAVE”

Turan, who noted that they arrived in the area about 11 months ago following a report from local residents, said, 'I knew the tomb was here with its stones. When we came here, the graves were open. This situation was not widely reflected in the public. Local residents also say these graves are martyr graves.'

HISTORICAL TOMBS HAVE TAKEN ON A PARKING LOT APPEARANCE

Turan, who stated that arrangements were made in the area about 2-3 weeks ago, said, 'The tombs have been covered with pebbles. They have virtually taken on the appearance of a parking lot. There is a use contrary to the foundation's purpose. We request that our Governor Mr. Erol Ayyıldız address the issue and that the Directorate of Culture and Tourism conduct an inspection here. We demand that our ancestors be protected.'

“IF THE HISTORY OF THIS PLACE IS RESEARCHED, VERY IMPORTANT ELEMENTS COULD EMERGE”

Turan, who also made assessments regarding the use of foundation properties, stated, 'According to the Foundation Law, foundation properties cannot be used for purposes other than their intended use. After the 1940s, many wrong practices targeting our ancestors began. Some foundation properties can be leased, but tombs cannot be leased. If the history of this place is researched, very important elements could emerge. There are also assessments from 2012-2016 indicating that this place should be protected as a second-degree site.'

It remains a matter of curiosity whether an investigation will be conducted into the area where the historical tomb is located.