Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex in Turkey

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2011
Size of heritage: 2.50 ha
- Buffer zone: 38 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 26,559°
Latitude: 41,678°

Summary

The square Mosque with its single great dome and four slender minarets, dominates the skyline of the former Ottoman capital of Edirne. Sinan, the most famous of Ottoman architects in the 16th century, considered the complex, which includes madrasas (Islamic schools), a covered market, clock house, outer courtyard and library, to be his best work. The interior decoration using Iznik tiles from the peak period of their production testifies to an art form that remains unsurpassed in this material. The complex is considered to be the most harmonious expression ever achieved of the Ottoman külliye, a group of buildings constructed around a mosque and managed as a single institution.

Location on Map

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Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex

The Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Edirne, Turkey. Situated at coordinates N41 40 40 E26 33 34, this architectural masterpiece is renowned for its grandeur and historical significance. The complex, which includes the mosque, madrasa, library, and a covered market, was built during the Ottoman Empire and stands as a testament to the empire's cultural and architectural achievements.

History

The construction of the Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex began in 1569 under the orders of Sultan Selim II and was completed in 1575. The mosque was designed by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who is considered one of the greatest architects in Islamic history. Sinan's design for the Selimiye Mosque incorporated elements of both Byzantine and Islamic architecture, resulting in a unique and harmonious blend of styles.

The mosque was built to commemorate the Ottoman victory in the Battle of Lepanto, a significant naval battle against the Holy League. The victory solidified the Ottoman Empire's control over the Mediterranean and marked the peak of its naval power. The Selimiye Mosque was intended to serve as a symbol of the empire's strength and dominance.

Architecture

The Selimiye Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, characterized by its grand dome, towering minarets, and intricate decorations. The mosque's central dome has a diameter of 31.25 meters, making it one of the largest domes in the world. The interior of the mosque is adorned with beautiful calligraphy, colorful tiles, and intricate geometric patterns, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Ottoman craftsmen.

The complex also includes a madrasa, or Islamic school, which provided education in various fields of study. The madrasa features a central courtyard surrounded by student rooms and lecture halls. The library within the complex houses a vast collection of Islamic manuscripts and books, serving as a center for intellectual and academic pursuits.

The covered market, or arasta, was an essential part of the social complex. It provided a space for merchants to sell their goods and fostered economic activity within the community. The arasta is characterized by its vaulted ceilings and rows of shops, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Current State

The Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex have been meticulously preserved and restored over the years, ensuring their continued grandeur and historical significance. The mosque remains an active place of worship, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can marvel at the architectural beauty of the complex, explore the library's collection, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the covered market.

Address
Distance: 1,1 mi
1. Murat Mah. Bülent Alamut Cad. 28 Sok. No 5
22030 Edirne
Turkey

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

ETSO'nun Muhteşem Edirne Belgeseli

Published: March 22, 2014
Length: 36:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Erkut Erdinçler

Edirne Ticaret ve Sanayi Odasının hazırlatmış olduğu muhteşem bir Edirne belgeseli.

Selimiye Mosque, Edirne, Turkey

Published: June 25, 2012
Length: 03:23 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Richard Randall

http://zoqy.net/ During our stay in Edirne, Turkey we visited the Selimiye Mosque. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Selim II and designed by Mimar Sinan between 1569 and 1575.

Edirne (Selimiye) de Ezan

Published: September 18, 2011
Length: 09:35 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Ibrahim Aydemir

Selimiye Mosque in Edirne.mpg

Published: September 15, 2010
Length: 07:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Mircea Costiniuc

Mosque in Edirne.

Selimiye'nin Gizleri Tipografi Trailer

Published: August 16, 2012
Length: 11:52 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ismail Yar

Stüdyo Mercan Medya Selimiye'nin Gizleri , gün yüzü görmemiş Selimiye Camii'nin Gizleri Yöneten ismail YAR Yazan Cengiz Bulut , Hakan Akıncı Senaryo sahibi ismail YAR Yapımcı Mercan Medya.