The youngest lithological units found in the research area are Quaternary-aged alluviums, alluvial cones,
alluvial fans and Bursa travertines. The various characteristics these units possess also greatly influence local
activities and settlement patterns.
Alluviums form the very fertile soils found on the Bursa Plain. These alluvial soils, as well as the beneficial
climate and relief convenient for agricultural activities, are amongst the most important reasons for the
settlement of the Bursa Plain area since the Neolithic. When examining the settlement history of the region, it
can be observed that although settlements have been present on the Bursa Plain since the Neolithic, some have
vanished for various reasons while others have been resettled and remain to this day.