Old Mosque (Eski Camii) | Bursa

Eski Camii (meaning "Old Mosque") is a historic mosque located in the city of Bursa, Turkey. It is one of the key examples of early Ottoman architecture and is known for its simplicity and serene atmosphere. The mosque holds cultural, historical, and architectural significance, as it reflects the early Ottoman period's style of mosque design.

History:

Eski Camii was built during the early 14th century, around 1396 to 1399, and it is one of the oldest mosques in Bursa. Its construction was ordered by Süleyman Çelebi, the son of Orhan Gazi, the second Ottoman Sultan. The mosque was part of the early Ottoman efforts to establish a lasting architectural legacy.

The mosque was originally intended as a Friday mosque for the local community and has served that purpose ever since. It was one of the first significant architectural projects undertaken by the Ottomans after they established themselves as the rulers of the region, marking an important phase in the development of Ottoman religious architecture.

Architecture:

Design Style: The mosque is designed in the traditional Ottoman style but with some early Seljuk influences. The building is characterized by its simplicity and elegance, using a combination of stone and brick in its construction.

The Interior: The interior of the mosque is distinguished by its large prayer hall. The mosque features a single dome above the central prayer space, which creates an open and airy feeling inside. The mihrab (the niche indicating the direction of prayer) is simply designed but still beautifully detailed.

Calligraphy and Decoration: The mosque is known for its decorative elements, especially the intricate calligraphy on the walls. Several Quranic verses and Islamic motifs are displayed throughout the mosque, contributing to its serene atmosphere.

Minaret: Eski Camii has a stone minaret, which is another key architectural feature of the mosque. The minaret's design is relatively simple compared to later Ottoman minarets but is still an impressive feature of the mosque’s structure.

Significance:

Early Ottoman Architecture: Eski Camii represents a transitional phase in Ottoman mosque architecture. While it incorporates elements from earlier Seljuk architecture, it also introduces features that would later become characteristic of Ottoman mosques, such as the central dome and the use of large, open prayer halls.

Cultural Heritage: The mosque is an important symbol of the early Ottoman period in Bursa, which was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire before it moved to Edirne and eventually to Istanbul. Eski Camii reflects the development of Ottoman art and architecture and provides valuable insight into the early Ottoman religious practices.

Historical Role: Throughout history, Eski Camii has been a place for religious worship and community gathering. It continues to serve as an active mosque, maintaining its original function for the local community.

Location:

Eski Camii is located in the center of Bursa, near the Koza Han and Grand Bazaar, making it an easy stop for visitors exploring the city’s historical sites. The mosque is located in a charming part of Bursa's old town, which is full of Ottoman-era buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Visiting Eski Camii:

Visitors to Eski Camii can enjoy not only the architectural beauty of the mosque but also its peaceful and spiritual ambiance. The mosque is less crowded compared to some of Bursa’s more famous landmarks, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or exploration.

The surrounding area offers other historical attractions, such as Koza Han, the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), and the Bursa Castle, so Eski Camii is a perfect addition to a day of exploring Bursa’s Ottoman heritage.

Conclusion:

Eski Camii is a testament to the early stages of Ottoman architecture and offers visitors an opportunity to explore a significant part of Bursa's history. Its simplicity, elegance, and serene atmosphere make it an important historical and architectural site in the city. Whether you’re interested in Ottoman architecture, history, or simply seeking a peaceful place of reflection, Eski Camii offers a wonderful experience.