Mosques in Diyarbakir
Ulu Camii Mosque - Diyarbarkir
There are a number of mosques and places of worship to visit when you travel to Diyarbakir, especially if you are interested in religion or historical architecture and history. One of the most famous mosques, if is the Ulu Camii, the Great Mosque of Diyarbakir. It is one of the oldest mosques in Turkey. However, there are many other mosques and madrasahs you can visit to achieve a greater understanding of the history, culture, religions and architecture of Diyarbakir.
The Ulu Camii (the “Great Mosque”), was constructed in the 11th century, (finished in 1092) by Seljuk Turkish Sultan Malik Shah. Its walls are made of
Ulu Camii Mosque Entrance - Diyarbakir
black and white stripes of white limestone and black basalt as seen so often in the historical buildings of Diyarbakir. Its design is based on Syrian architecture with a courtyard and a fountain in the center with a prayer niche surrounded by buildings and a madressa.
Briefly, the following mosques and churches should not be missed on your Diyarbakir vacation:
Beharampaşa Camii – An Ottoman mosque, constructed in 1572.
The Dört Ayaklı Minare (the “Four Footed Minaret”) - Constructed in 1500 by Kasim Khan of the Akkoyunlu in the. Legend has it that if you walk through the columns seven times, your wishes will be granted to you.
The Fatihpaşa Camii, contructed by Bıyıklı Mehmet Paşa in 1520.
The Hazreti Süleyman Camii - It is said that Suleyman, who died in a battle against the Arabs is buried in this mosque.
The İskender Paşa Camii - constructed in 1551, also constructed with the famous Diyarbakir stripes of black basalt white limestone.
The Nebii Camii, “the Mosque of the Prophet” constructed in the 16th century.
The Safa Camii – constructed in1532 by the Ak Koyunlu tribe.
The Deliler Han Madrassah – converted into a hotel.
The Syriac Orthodox Church of Our Lady (Meryemana kilisesi).
Meryem Ana or the Mother Mary Church, circa 6th century, Byzantium and Roman architectural features. The interior contains mausoleums of some of the saints of the Church.
The mosques have not only played the role of places of worship throughout the history of Diyarbakir, but have also been important centers of community activities for the people living in the city. Exploring the history and the architecture of Diyarbakir is essential part of any tour of Diyarbakir. Bring your camera. Tours of the mosques can be arranged once your arrive in Diyarbakir. If you are seeking a place to stay in Diyarbakir, please visit our hotels Diyarbakir page.
Ulu Camii Mosque Entrance, Diyarbakir
