Manisa is the capital of the Turkish province of Manisa. It has a population of 214,345.

History

Manisa has a far-reaching past in the Aegean region of Anatolia. Its recorded history goes back to 500 BC, but the first known settlements date back to the 14th century BC.

Since the great Ottoman Sultans chose Manisa as the training ground for crown princes, there are many examples of Ottoman architecture, as well as Seljuk. The Sultan Mosque of the 16th century was built for Ayse Sultan, mother of Suleiman the Magnificent. In her honor, the Mesir Macunu Festival (featuring spiced candy, which is supposed to restore health, youth and potency, also known as "Turkish Viagra") is held every year in March, in the grounds of this mosque.

The Muradiye Mosque of the 16th century was built by the great architect Sinan, and the Murad Bey Medresse now houses the Archaeological Museum of Manisa .

Manisa celebrates the Vintage Festival every September, when the fruits of the vineyards are celebrated. The vineyards surround the city and provide dry fruit for export from Izmir, and grapes for wine making.