A Short History of the City

Eskişehir has a rich and diverse history, dating back thousands of years. Here’s an overview of its historical development, starting from the earliest periods:

Ancient History

1. Paleolithic and Neolithic Periods: The region around Eskişehir has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that early human settlements date back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. Artifacts from these eras, such as tools and pottery, have been discovered in the area.
2. Hittite Period (2000 BCE – 1200 BCE): Eskişehir was part of the lands controlled by the Hittites, one of the major civilizations of ancient Anatolia. During this period, it was likely a significant trade and agricultural hub due to its fertile lands and strategic location on trade routes. The region was known as the land of the Seha River during the Hittite era.
3. Phrygian Kingdom (12th century BCE – 7th century BCE): After the fall of the Hittites, the Phrygians, an Indo-European people, settled in the area around Eskişehir, establishing it as part of their kingdom. The ancient city of Dorylaeum, which lies near modern Eskişehir, was an important Phrygian city. The Phrygians left behind numerous archaeological remnants, including tombs, inscriptions, and the famous Yazılıkaya (Midas City) rock-cut monuments located near Eskişehir.
4. Lydians, Persians, and Macedonians (7th century BCE – 4th century BCE): The area saw the rise and fall of several empires after the Phrygians, including the Lydians and Persians. In 334 BCE, Alexander the Great conquered the region as part of his campaign against the Persian Empire. Eskişehir became part of his vast empire and subsequently fell under the rule of the Hellenistic Kingdoms after Alexander’s death.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

5. Roman Empire (1st century BCE – 4th century CE): Under Roman rule, Eskişehir, known as Dorylaeum, grew into a prominent city due to its location on a major military and trade route connecting the eastern and western parts of the empire. Roman baths, theaters, and public buildings were constructed, and the city became an important center for commerce and culture.
6. Byzantine Empire (4th century CE – 11th century CE): During the Byzantine era, Eskişehir continued to thrive. The city remained strategically significant, especially during the early Byzantine period. However, it also faced attacks from various groups, including Persians, Arabs, and later, the Seljuks.

Seljuk and Ottoman Periods

7. Seljuk Empire (11th century CE – 13th century CE): In the 11th century, the Seljuk Turks defeated the Byzantines at the Battle of Manzikert (1071), opening Anatolia to Turkish settlement. Eskişehir became part of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and was renamed “Sultanönü.” The Seljuks brought Islamic architecture, education, and culture to the region, leaving a lasting impact.
8. Ottoman Empire (13th century CE – 20th century CE): Eskişehir is closely linked to the early history of the Ottoman Empire. It was one of the first areas incorporated into Ottoman lands during the empire’s founding in the late 13th century. The region grew into a significant administrative and commercial center under Ottoman rule. Its proximity to Bursa and the empire’s early heartland made it an important location. The Ottoman period also saw the construction of mosques, bridges, and other infrastructure that are still present today.

Modern Period

9. Turkish War of Independence (1919–1922): Eskişehir played a key role during the Turkish War of Independence. It was the site of several major battles between Turkish nationalists, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the occupying Greek forces. The Battle of Sakarya, fought near Eskişehir, was a turning point in the war and led to the eventual establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.
10. Republic of Turkey (20th century – Present): After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, Eskişehir continued to develop as an important industrial, educational, and transportation hub. The establishment of Anadolu University in 1958 transformed Eskişehir into a vibrant student city, known for its youthful population and modern atmosphere. The city has since grown into a center for culture, industry, and innovation, attracting both national and international attention for its livability and progressive urban planning.

Eskişehir’s historical legacy, from ancient civilizations to its modern transformation, is reflected in its diverse architecture, archaeological sites, and vibrant cultural life today.