Selimiye Mosque
Marmara Region
The Selimiye Mosque, located in Edirne, Turkey, is a pinnacle of Ottoman imperial architecture designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan and constructed between 1568 and 1575. Commissioned by Sultan Selim II, it stands as Sinan's masterpiece and one of the greatest achievements of Islamic architecture. The mosque features a vast prayer hall beneath a magnificent dome, supported by slender pillars, and an adjacent rectangular courtyard. It was built during the height of Ottoman power and reflects both religious and imperial grandeur. The mosque complex, or külliye, includes various auxiliary buildings serving religious and social functions. Its architectural innovation and harmony have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Over centuries, the mosque has undergone restorations due to natural and wartime damages, preserving its historical and cultural legacy. The Selimiye Mosque remains a symbol of Ottoman artistic and spiritual heritage and continues to attract visitors worldwide for its aesthetic and historical importance.
Plan your trip to Turkey with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the mosque during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer softer light for photography. Tickets are generally not required, but respectful attire is recommended. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the mosque's history and architecture. Booking tours in advance can enhance the experience, especially during peak tourist seasons. The mosque is accessible by public transport from Edirne city center.
Interesting facts
- •The mosque's dome is larger in diameter than that of the Hagia Sophia, showcasing Ottoman architectural innovation.
- •Mimar Sinan considered the Selimiye Mosque his masterpiece, reflecting his architectural genius.
- •The mosque was partly funded by the spoils from the conquest of Cyprus in 1571.
- •Damage from artillery fire during the 1913 siege was intentionally left unrestored as a historical reminder.
- •The mosque is featured on the reverse of Turkish 10,000 lira banknotes issued between 1982 and 1995.
History
Commissioned by Sultan Selim II, the Selimiye Mosque was constructed between 1568 and 1575 by Mimar Sinan, who regarded it as his finest work.
Selim II chose Edirne over Istanbul for personal and strategic reasons, including his governorship of the city and the lack of suitable sites in Istanbul.
The mosque's funding was partly from spoils of the conquest of Cyprus.
It endured minor damages from lightning, earthquakes, and artillery fire during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Restoration efforts have been ongoing since the mid-20th century, with a major project underway since 2021.
The mosque also witnessed significant historical events, including visits by Baha'u'llah, founder of the Baha'i Faith, during his exile.
Place Guide
Main Prayer Hall1568-1575
The prayer hall is a vast rectangular space covered by a large dome supported by eight slender pillars, allowing an open and harmonious interior space that exemplifies Ottoman architectural innovation.
Courtyard (Sahn)1568-1575
The mosque's courtyard is a rectangular open space adjacent to the prayer hall, designed to complement the mosque's architecture and provide a gathering place for worshippers and visitors.
