From Shadow to History, from History to Nature: A Learning Journey in Bursa
The trip titled “The Story of Hacivat and Karagöz: Bursa”, organized by the Turkish-Social Studies Department on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with our 6th grade students, offered a culturally and historically rich learning experience. During this special excursion, our students listened to the story of Hacivat and Karagöz in Bursa—the birthplace of the traditional Turkish shadow play. Through the performance they watched, they had the opportunity to explore the historical and cultural significance of this long-standing art form firsthand.The visit to the Atatürk House Museum as part of the trip raised students’ awareness about one of the important milestones in the history of the Republic. With the museum director’s captivating narration, our students embarked on a journey through time and had the chance to observe historical events within their spatial context.Stops at the Botanical Park and Zoo helped reinforce a love for nature and supported environmental awareness. The final stop of the trip, Tophane, reconnected the students with history. They watched the changing of the guard performed by Alp soldiers and experienced the historical depth in front of one of Bursa’s symbols—the Clock Tower.Through this multifaceted trip, our students enjoyed an educational and delightful weekend, immersed in culture, history, and nature.
