Located in the northwestern part of Turkey's Eastern Thrace region, Edirne is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern amenities. As the second capital city of the Ottoman Empire from 1369 to 1453, Edirne boasts a storied past that is still palpable today.
With a population of approximately 180,002 residents (as of 2022), Edirne offers an excellent quality of life, earning top marks for its amenities (A) and education system (A+). The city's cultural scene is equally impressive, with a score of A+, reflecting its numerous historical landmarks, museums, and traditional festivals.
Edirne's economy thrives on commerce, particularly in the textile industry, where it specializes in woven textiles, silks, and carpets. Its agricultural sector also contributes significantly to the local economy. In recent years, tourism has emerged as a growing industry, attracting visitors from across Turkey and beyond.
One of Edirne's claims to fame is its delectable cuisine, with the famous Edirne Fried Liver (Ciğer tava) being a must-try dish for food enthusiasts. This mouth-watering delicacy typically consists of breaded and deep-fried liver served with cacık – a refreshing side of diluted strained yogurt with chopped cucumber.
While Edirne's commute score is slightly lower at B+, the city has invested in infrastructure to ensure that residents can easily navigate its streets and access essential services. In terms of health, Edirne scores a respectable B, indicating good healthcare facilities and services available to its citizens.
On the environmental front, Edirne scores C- for NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) issues, suggesting some room for improvement in waste management and green spaces. Noise pollution is also a concern, with the city scoring C+. However, overall, Edirne's total score of A suggests that its numerous strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
Under the new leadership of Mayor Filiz Gencan Akin, elected in March 2024, Edirne is poised to build on its successes and address areas for improvement. As a city with a rich history and a bright future, Edirne offers an attractive blend of culture, commerce, and quality of life that makes it an excellent choice for residents, businesses, and tourists alike.