Manisa is an attractive Aegean city with several splendid examples of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture. The early 16th century Sultan Mosque was built by Ayse Sultan, mother of Suleyman the Magnificent. In her honour every year in March, in the grounds of this mosque, there is a Spiced Candy Festival (Mesir Bayrami). The 16th century Muradiye Mosque was built by the great architect Sinan and the medrese of this mosque today houses the Archaeological Museum. September sees the annual Harvest Festival bringing in the fruits of the vineyards with great celebration. The numerous vineyards seen in the region produce dried fruit for export and grapes for wine making. South of Manisa is the Sipil Dagi National Park where one can see the famous "crying rock" of Niobe.

Sart (Sardis)

At Sart on the Sart Cayi (Pactole River) are the ruins of ancient Sardis, which was the capital of the Lydian realm of Croesus. There are the remains of the Temple of Artemis and a restored gymnasium, which testify to the past splendour of this ancient city. The important 3rd century synagogue is certainly worth a visit. Northeast of Manisa is Gourds a pleasant town particularly famous for its very fine carpets.