Around the Gulf of Edremit, also in Balikesir province, are some of the most beautiful coastlines in the country where the clear waters meet sandy beaches encircled by the silvery green of olive groves. The province of Balikesir borders both the Marmara and Aegean regions. In the capital of Balikesir, nature and interesting historical sites blend in harmony.

The mid l4th century Yildirim Mosque, built by Beyazit I, is the city’s oldest mosque. Of Zagnos Pasa Mosque, built in 1461 by Mehmet the Conqueror’s Grand Vizier Zagnos Pasa, and once part of a great complex, only the mosque and bath remain today. The Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) built in 1827 by Mehmet Pasa imitates the Genoese Galata Tower on a smaller scale. The Karesi Bey Mausoleum of 1336 contains the cenotaphs of Karesi Bey and his five sons.