Green Mosque
Marmara Region
The Green Mosque, located in Bursa, Turkey, is an iconic example of early Ottoman architecture and art. Commissioned by Sultan Mehmed I Çelebi and completed in 1419, it forms part of a larger complex known as the Green Külliye, which includes a mausoleum, madrasa, public kitchen, and bathhouse. The mosque is renowned for its striking green and blue tile decorations, especially its intricately tiled mihrab, which is considered the first of its kind in early Ottoman design. Architecturally, the mosque features a distinctive T-shaped plan with two large domes and symmetrical side rooms originally used as meeting places for provincial officials. Marble from Marmara Island was used extensively, marking the mosque as the first marble monument in Bursa. Its wooden doors and window shutters showcase exquisite craftsmanship, and the mosque remains active today, accommodating up to 2000 worshippers. The Green Mosque is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designated around historic Bursa, drawing visitors worldwide for its cultural, historical, and artistic significance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit the Green Mosque in the spring or autumn months to avoid the summer heat and winter cold. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. The mosque remains an active place of worship, so visitors should dress modestly and be respectful during prayer times. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the site's rich history and intricate tilework.
Interesting facts
- •The Green Mosque is considered the culmination of early Ottoman architectural style, blending aesthetic mastery with technical innovation.
- •Its tile decorations were created by a group called the 'Masters of Tabriz,' reflecting Persian artistic influence.
- •The mosque was built using marble from Marmara Island, making it Bursa's first marble monument.
- •The mosque's two minarets were rebuilt in the 19th century after the 1855 earthquake.
- •The mihrab is entirely covered with tiles and is the first early Ottoman mihrab adorned with such ceramic decoration.
History
Construction of the Green Mosque began in 1412 under Sultan Mehmed I Çelebi and was completed by December 1419 or January 1420.
The mosque's decoration continued after Mehmed I's death, with tile work completed in 1424 by Nakkas Ali bin Ilyas Ali and a team of craftsmen from Tabriz, reflecting Timurid artistic influences.
The complex includes the Green Tomb, the mausoleum of Mehmed I, finished in 1421.
The mosque suffered damage during the 1855 Bursa earthquake and underwent significant restorations led by French architect Léon Parvillée starting in 1863.
Further restorations occurred in the 1940s and early 21st century, preserving its architectural and artistic heritage.
Since 2014, the mosque is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing historic Bursa.
Place Guide
Main Prayer Hall1419-1424
The central worship area features two large domes, each 13 meters in diameter and 25 meters high, joined by a grand arch and keystone. The space is richly decorated with green and blue tiles and includes the intricately tiled mihrab on the southern wall.
Royal Loge (Hünkar Mahfili)1424
Located on the upper floor, this private gallery was reserved for the sultan and his entourage. It is decorated with calligraphic inscriptions and tile work, showcasing the craftsmanship of Nakkas Ali and the Masters of Tabriz.
Entrance Portal1419
The grand north-facing entrance features exquisite marble carvings and black-line tiles restored in the 19th century. It leads into a narrow corridor connecting to the main prayer hall.
Side Chambers1419
Flanking the main prayer hall, these symmetrical rooms were originally used for provincial officials from Anatolia and Rumelia to conduct affairs. Later, they served as courtrooms.
Minarets19th century (reconstruction)
The mosque has two minarets located at the northwest and southwest corners. The original minarets, adorned with green tiles, were destroyed in the 1855 earthquake and rebuilt in the late 19th century.
