Ahi Evran Mosque and Tomb
Central Anatolia Region
The Ahi Evran Mosque and Tomb complex is located in the heart of Kırşehir, Turkey, and commemorates Ahi Evren, a 13th-century Muslim preacher and leader of the Ahi Brotherhood. Originally a leather merchant, Ahi Evren organized Muslim craftsmen into a guild system that thrived until the 19th century, earning him lasting respect as an honorary leader. The tomb was constructed in 1450 by Hasan Bey, an Ahi craftsman, and later expanded in 1481 by Bozkurt of Dulkadir, adding a zaviye (Islamic hermitage). The complex features an iwan and two chambers; the symbolic coffin of Ahi Evren resides in the north chamber, alongside an adorned coffin of a sheikh, now relocated to Ankara for protection. The south chamber, recently restored, serves as a showroom, while the iwan contains five simple coffins of unidentified individuals. The tomb's room decoration dates to the 19th century. This site reflects the cultural and religious heritage of Anatolian Muslim craftsmen and remains a significant monument in Central Anatolia.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during the spring and autumn months for pleasant weather. It is recommended to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets ahead of time if available. The site is part of a complex that includes cultural offices, so visitors may find informative materials on-site. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Respectful attire is advised due to the site's religious significance.
Interesting facts
- •Ahi Evren was a 13th-century leather merchant who founded a guild system for Muslim craftsmen that persisted until the 19th century.
- •The tomb complex includes a symbolic coffin of Ahi Evren, while the actual grave's exact location was inferred from other graves.
- •The complex was expanded by Bozkurt of Dulkadir in 1481, adding an Islamic hermitage (zaviye).
- •One of the coffins originally in the tomb, belonging to a sheikh named Erzurimi, was moved to Ankara for preservation.
- •The site has been on UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List since April 15, 2014, under the Cultural category.
History
Ahi Evren, the founder of the Ahi Brotherhood guild system, was active in the 13th century and was killed in 1261 by Mongol forces.
His tomb was built nearly two centuries later in 1450 by Hasan Bey, an Ahi craftsman.
In 1481, Bozkurt of Dulkadir, ruler of the Dulkadir Beylik, captured Kırşehir briefly and renewed and expanded the complex by adding a zaviye.
The tomb's interior decorations were updated in the 19th century.
The exact location of Ahi Evren's grave was determined based on the positions of other Ahi graves within the complex.
Place Guide
North Chamber1450
Houses the symbolic coffin of Ahi Evren and formerly contained the adorned coffin of Sheikh Erzurimi, now relocated to Ankara for protection.
South Chamber19th century (restoration)
Recently restored and designed as a showroom, this chamber displays artifacts related to the complex and its history.
Iwan Area
Features five simple coffins of nameless persons, reflecting the communal burial practices of the Ahi Brotherhood.
Contact
Phone: (0386) 262 24 47
