www.mugla-turizm.gov.tr

A Saburhane tour in the foothills of the Asar Mountain

Keep wandering between the narrow streets of Saburhane through streets of old Muğla houses and climb to the hill. Do not forget to take your camera with you as at every turn you will find the urge to click away. The chimneys of the houses will catch your attention. The brick hat-shaped chimneys are the symbols of  Muğla houses. Most of the houses are of two storeys and have a small courtyard. If you get permission to enter one of these courtyards, you do so from twin doors set into the tall walls surrounding the houses that enclose them and cut them off from the streets. Maybe a Muğla local will invite you into his/her house. You will be a guest in these houses, which do not get in the way of each other and do not block one another’s views as they rise layer by layer. The Saburhane district of the city has been declared a city protected area (SIT) and not only houses but also streets, walls and the twin doors, known as "kuzulu kapı" (lamb door), are also protected. Thanks to the joint efforts of the governor, the municipality and non-governmental organisations an awareness of city protection has been developed. It is wonderful that an attempt is being made by state and private organisations, as well as some individuals, to protect some of these houses that were on the brink of collapse.

On your way back you must visit the Muğla Museum. You should also see the Hafize Ana (Hafize Kaşıkara) House and the Şerefliler House, which was restored and transformed into a Culture Centre by the municipality. The 200 years old Hafize Ana House has been the recipient of an award.