Konak Camii (Konak Mosque), Izmir
The Konak Mosque is a magnificent architectural gem that exemplifies classical Ottoman style. With its stunning turquoise tiles and historical significance, the mosque holds a prominent place in the heart of Konak Square, surrounded by other iconic landmarks such as the Izmir Clock Tower, the Government House, and the First Bullet Monument dedicated to Hasan Tahsin, a hero who lost his life during the Greek occupation in 1919.
The exact date of the mosque's construction and the identity of its builder remain shrouded in mystery. However, it is believed that the mosque was named "Mansion" due to its original location by the sea when it was initially built. Some sources suggest that the mosque was constructed in 1755, while others mention that it was commissioned by Katipzade Mehmet Pasha, a notable figure in Izmir, along with a madrasah adjacent to it, in 1774. This connection to Katipzadeler family's ties with foreigners earned the mosque the moniker "English Ay艧e Mosque," named after his wife, Ay艧e Han谋m.
Throughout its existence, the Konak Mosque has witnessed various historical events and undergone several renovations. During World War I, Governor Rahmi Bey took the initiative to repair the mosque, an effort that is commemorated by an inscription on its entrance door. It is believed that the skilled architect Tahsin Sermet was responsible for overseeing this restoration work.
The mosque features a captivating octagonal plan, a hallmark of classical Ottoman architecture. The windows are adorned with intricate tiles, a sight that never fails to catch the eye of visitors. The construction of the mosque is a beautiful blend of stone and brick materials, contributing to its enduring charm.
Inside, the mosque is adorned with splendid tiles, enhancing the sacred atmosphere and creating a visually stunning experience for worshippers and visitors alike. The single-balcony minaret stands tall on a cut stone plinth, adding to the mosque's graceful silhouette against the skyline.
One of the most remarkable features of the Konak Mosque is its magnificent chandelier, a masterpiece crafted by the skilled ceramic artist, 脺mran Baradan. This chandelier not only illuminates the prayer hall but also serves as a testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural heritage of the region.
The exact date of the mosque's construction and the identity of its builder remain shrouded in mystery. However, it is believed that the mosque was named "Mansion" due to its original location by the sea when it was initially built. Some sources suggest that the mosque was constructed in 1755, while others mention that it was commissioned by Katipzade Mehmet Pasha, a notable figure in Izmir, along with a madrasah adjacent to it, in 1774. This connection to Katipzadeler family's ties with foreigners earned the mosque the moniker "English Ay艧e Mosque," named after his wife, Ay艧e Han谋m.
Throughout its existence, the Konak Mosque has witnessed various historical events and undergone several renovations. During World War I, Governor Rahmi Bey took the initiative to repair the mosque, an effort that is commemorated by an inscription on its entrance door. It is believed that the skilled architect Tahsin Sermet was responsible for overseeing this restoration work.
The mosque features a captivating octagonal plan, a hallmark of classical Ottoman architecture. The windows are adorned with intricate tiles, a sight that never fails to catch the eye of visitors. The construction of the mosque is a beautiful blend of stone and brick materials, contributing to its enduring charm.
Inside, the mosque is adorned with splendid tiles, enhancing the sacred atmosphere and creating a visually stunning experience for worshippers and visitors alike. The single-balcony minaret stands tall on a cut stone plinth, adding to the mosque's graceful silhouette against the skyline.
One of the most remarkable features of the Konak Mosque is its magnificent chandelier, a masterpiece crafted by the skilled ceramic artist, 脺mran Baradan. This chandelier not only illuminates the prayer hall but also serves as a testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural heritage of the region.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Izmir. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Konak Camii (Konak Mosque) on Map
Sight Name: Konak Camii (Konak Mosque)
Sight Location: Izmir, Turkey (See walking tours in Izmir)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Izmir, Turkey (See walking tours in Izmir)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Izmir, Turkey
Create Your Own Walk in Izmir
Creating your own self-guided walk in Izmir is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Izmir Introduction Walking Tour
A major city port on the western coastline of Turkey, Izmir is a city of enchanting contrasts. With a lineage that traverses millennia, this jewel of the Aegean Sea beckons travelers with its storied past and cosmopolitan vibrancy.
The city was founded by the Aeolians (one of the four major ancient Greek tribes) around the 3rd millennium BC and was later inhabited by various civilizations,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
The city was founded by the Aeolians (one of the four major ancient Greek tribes) around the 3rd millennium BC and was later inhabited by various civilizations,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Alsancak Walking Tour
Sparkling like a gem in the Aegean sun, the vibrant Alsancak neighborhood in the historic heart of Izmir exudes an irresistible charm that beckons both seasoned travelers and curious wanderers alike. In Ottoman times, the area was named "La Punta" (which is the Italian for "the cape") and was part of the city settled by the upper middle class.
From the spacious G眉ndo臒du... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
From the spacious G眉ndo臒du... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles