Yivli Minare Mosque

Description

A ribbed minaret mosque built by the Seljuks in the 13th century, which has become a symbol of the city.

Story

Yivli Minare Mosque is one of the most recognizable silhouettes reaching towards the sky in Antalya. Built in the first half of the 13th century during the reign of Seljuk Sultan I. Alaeddin Keykubad, the structure takes its name from its eight-fluted brick minaret. The turquoise and blue tiles adorning the body of the minaret, some of which have survived to this day, present an elegant example of Seljuk aesthetics. The area where the mosque is located is also known for the existence of a church from the Byzantine period; this indicates that the structure serves as a transition point both religiously and culturally. For centuries, Yivli Minare has been a place of worship and a meeting point at the heart of city life for the people of Antalya, and during the Republic period, it also hosted the Antalya Museum for a time. Today, while wandering in its courtyard, it is possible to see architectural fragments, inscriptions, and tombstones from different periods. The interior of the mosque is simple and functional; rather than decoration, a peaceful atmosphere is at the forefront. From the outside, the minaret rises in a dominant position with its simple yet striking form, visible from many places in the city. Despite the modern buildings surrounding it, the minaret still serves as a kind of historical compass for the city. When illuminated at night, a pleasant contrast emerges between the liveliness of the surrounding streets and the serene appearance of the minaret. Considered one of the most important structures embodying Antalya's Islamic and Seljuk heritage, Yivli Minare serves as a photo stop for tourists and a natural part of daily life for the local people. Upon entering the mosque, it is possible to feel the spiritual traces left by the prayers and rituals performed in this space for centuries.

Visit Tips

• The mosque is open for worship; it is especially more comfortable for visits outside of prayer times, after noon and before the afternoon prayer.
• When entering, attention should be paid to clothing; women should wear headscarves, and everyone should choose appropriate attire.
• It is important to show respect to those praying inside while taking photos and not to use flash.
• Entrance to the mosque is free; it is enjoyable to explore on foot as there are many cafes and shops in the nearby area.

Photos