Selimiye Mosque | Konya

The Selimiye Mosque is one of the most famous and significant mosques in Turkey, located in Edirne, a historic city in the northwestern part of the country. It is renowned for its stunning Ottoman architecture and is considered one of the masterpieces of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Ottoman architectural and artistic achievement.

History and Background:

The Selimiye Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Selim II, the son of Suleiman the Magnificent, and was constructed between 1569 and 1575 during the reign of Mimar Sinan, the chief architect of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque was built to serve as the centerpiece of a large complex that also included a madrasah (Islamic school), a hospital, a kitchen, and other buildings.

Sultan Selim II, who ruled from 1566 to 1574, wanted a mosque that would be grand and symbolize the strength and prestige of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque was named after him, the Selimiye Mosque, in honor of his reign.

Architectural Significance:

The Selimiye Mosque is considered one of the greatest achievements of Mimar Sinan, who is regarded as one of the most important architects in the history of Islamic architecture. Sinan designed the mosque in a way that reflected the classical Ottoman style while also incorporating his own innovative ideas.

The mosque's large dome is one of its most striking features. The dome, with a diameter of 31.3 meters (102 feet), is supported by eight massive pillars and is one of the largest in the world. It creates a sense of spaciousness and grandeur within the mosque.

The mosque is built on an elevated platform, providing an unobstructed view of the surrounding area, including the city of Edirne. The building's harmonious proportions and the design of the interior space reflect Ottoman architectural principles.

The mosque is surrounded by a series of smaller domes, minarets, and a courtyard, giving it an impressive and symmetrical appearance. It features a remarkable central prayer hall under the large dome, with windows that allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Key Features of the Mosque:

The Dome: The central feature of the mosque is its massive dome, which is considered one of the most magnificent in the Islamic world. The dome is set on a drum (a cylindrical base) with eight support piers, allowing the building to achieve a sense of vastness.

Minarets: The Selimiye Mosque has four slender minarets, each standing 70 meters (230 feet) tall. These minarets are among the tallest in Turkey and are an iconic feature of the mosque's skyline.

Interior Decoration: The mosque’s interior is adorned with beautiful tiles, calligraphy, and geometric patterns. The Iznik tiles on the walls and the prayer niche (mihrab) showcase the finest examples of Ottoman tile craftsmanship. The intricate arabesque designs and verses from the Quran that cover the walls reflect the spiritual and artistic richness of the period.

The Courtyard: The mosque is surrounded by a large courtyard that is accessed through an elegant gate. The courtyard is paved with stone and features a fountain at its center. The arcade surrounding the courtyard is decorated with elegant arches and columns.

The Prayer Hall: Inside, the Selimiye Mosque boasts a vast and airy prayer hall, illuminated by natural light that enters through high windows. The main prayer area is a grand, open space, emphasizing the spiritual atmosphere of the mosque.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

The Selimiye Mosque is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural and historical symbol for the city of Edirne and for Turkey. It was one of the last mosques built during the peak of the Ottoman Empire and is considered a symbol of the architectural brilliance and spiritual grandeur of the empire.

The mosque's design influenced many subsequent Ottoman mosques, including the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, which was built later in the 17th century.

The mosque is still used for religious purposes today and serves as a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural beauty and historical importance.

Visiting the Selimiye Mosque:

Location: The Selimiye Mosque is located in the center of Edirne, a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, just a short distance from the border with Greece and Bulgaria. It is a prominent landmark in the city.

Accessibility: The mosque is easily accessible to both locals and tourists, and it is open to visitors year-round. While it is a functioning mosque, tourists are welcome to explore the mosque during non-prayer times.

Opening Hours: The mosque is generally open to visitors from morning until late afternoon, but it is closed during prayer times. It is advisable to check specific hours before planning a visit.

Entrance: There is no entrance fee for visiting the mosque, but donations are appreciated. Visitors are expected to dress modestly when entering, as it is a place of worship.

Conclusion:

The Selimiye Mosque in Edirne is a monumental architectural masterpiece that embodies the zenith of Ottoman religious architecture. Designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan, it stands as a testament to the grandeur and spiritual power of the Ottoman Empire. Its elegant dome, tall minarets, and beautifully decorated interior make it one of the most impressive mosques in Turkey and the world. A visit to the Selimiye Mosque offers not only a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the Ottoman era but also a chance to experience the spiritual and cultural heritage of Turkey.