Gemlik Ports

Abstract: gemlik is a developed sub-district of bursa, spans a total of 413 km² and located in south part of marmara region. the area has great importance throughout history because of the advantages of the geographical location. in early time of ottoman empire, gemlik was a port city then its function was converted into agriculture and commerce for the needs of ottoman palace. however, it has always been an important port city between two major capitals of ottoman, iznik and bursa, for sea transportation of goods and people, shipyards and accomodation of travelers. the majority of the ports are located on the southern shores of the gulf of gemlik. all of those ports have regional, national and international strategic importance because of their geographic locations. proximity to industrialized cities has played an important role to establishment and development of the ports, as well as natural factors. this study aims to investigate advantages of these ports based on their geographical locations and their features based on the services that they provide. it is also an attempt to offer solutions for the problems related to locations, natural environment, ports impacts on the city and other natural and human factors which effects developments of the ports.