Djumaya Mosque
Plovdiv
Djumaya Mosque, located in the heart of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, is a significant early Ottoman monument built in the 14th century. Constructed on the site of a former Christian church, the mosque was either founded during the reign of Sultan Murad I (1362–1389) or Sultan Murad II (1421–1451), with the prevailing scholarly consensus favoring Murad II around 1433–1436. The mosque features a large prayer hall covered by nine domes supported by four central columns, a design uncommon among later Ottoman mosques that typically have a single dome. Its walls showcase a distinctive construction technique alternating layers of bricks and dressed stone, suggesting local or captive Christian builders' involvement. The mosque's interior walls are adorned with paintings dating from the late 18th to early 19th centuries. A minaret stands at the northeast corner, and a historic sundial from 1878 is located at the southwest corner. Over the centuries, the mosque underwent renovations, including changes to entrances and the addition of wooden shops along the northern facade. Despite periods of neglect, Djumaya Mosque remains a culturally and architecturally important landmark reflecting Plovdiv's Ottoman past and religious diversity.
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Astuce: Visitors should explore the mosque during daylight hours to appreciate the intricate architecture and interior paintings. The mosque is situated within Plovdiv's pedestrian zone, making it easily accessible by foot. It's advisable to check opening hours in advance, especially during religious holidays. While entry may be free or low-cost, consider respectful attire and behavior as it is an active place of worship. Guided tours of Plovdiv often include the mosque, enriching the experience with historical context.
Faits intéressants
- •The mosque has nine domes supported by four central columns, unlike typical Ottoman mosques with a single dome.
- •Its walls use a unique construction technique alternating layers of bricks and dressed stone, indicating local Christian builders' involvement.
- •A sundial from 1878 is installed on the southwest corner of the mosque.
- •The mosque was built on the site of a former Christian church dedicated to Sveta Petka Tarnovska, though no archaeological evidence supports this claim.
- •In February 2014, the mosque was attacked by a mob, described as nationalists and football hooligans, leading to arrests and condemnation by the Grand Mufti of Bulgaria.
Histoire
Djumaya Mosque was built on the site of the Sveta Petka Tarnovska Cathedral after the Ottoman conquest of Plovdiv in the 14th century.
The original building was likely constructed during Sultan Murad I's or Murad II's reign, with the current structure dating from the 15th century.
The mosque was originally called Muradie Mosque after Sultan Murad who funded its construction and later became known as the Friday Mosque.
Over centuries, it has undergone renovations including added entrances and facade modifications.
In modern times, it suffered neglect but remains a vital symbol of Plovdiv's Ottoman heritage.
Guide du lieu
Prayer Hall with Nine Domes15th century
The main prayer hall is covered by nine domes supported by four central columns, creating a unique spatial arrangement uncommon in Ottoman mosque architecture. The domes and columns contribute to the mosque's distinctive silhouette and interior atmosphere.
Minaret15th century
Located at the northeast corner of the mosque, the minaret serves as a traditional feature from which the call to prayer is announced. It is a prominent architectural element visible from the surrounding area.
Interior Wall PaintingsLate 18th - early 19th century
The mosque's interior walls are decorated with paintings dating from the late 18th to early 19th centuries, showcasing Islamic artistic traditions and adding to the cultural value of the building.
Sundial1878
A sundial installed in 1878 is located on the southwest corner of the mosque, providing a historical timekeeping element and reflecting the mosque's long-standing community role.
Northern Facade and ShopsPost-1880
The mosque's northern facade was modified after 1880, replacing the original arched portico with a wooden kiosk and shops, reflecting changes in urban use and architecture over time.