Last updated on December 21, 2023.
The Old Mosque (Eski Cami) is the oldest mosque in Edirne, Turkey. It sits in the historic city center across from the Bedesten and near other historic mosques.
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History
The Old Mosque was built between 1402 and 1414. It was commissioned by Emir Süleyman (1377-1411), the son of Sultan Bayezid I and one of the claimants to the throne during the Ottoman Interregnum. The mosque was finished by his brother, Sultan Mehmed I.
Minarets
Two minarets stand outside the mosque. There was originally just one minaret but a second taller minaret was added by Sultan Murad II in the first half of the 15th century.
Entrance
The entrance to the mosque is under an arched portico. An inscription sits above the entrance to the portico. There’s an ablutions fountain just outside the entrance to the portico on the left.
The portico features some of the beautiful calligraphy the mosque is known for. The calligraphy to the right of the entrance spells Allah and to the left spells Muhammad.
Prayer Hall
The prayer hall is very spacious and features several arches and large columns supporting the domes. The column bases are decorated with calligraphy.
The mosque has nine intricately decorated domes. All of the domes are painted with unique patterns and colors and contain windows to let in natural light.
Calligraphy
The mosque is best known for the incredible calligraphy on the walls. Some of it nearly stretches the entire wall from floor to the ceiling.
More Photos
Click here for a virtual tour of the mosque. Here are a few more photos of the prayer hall of the Old Mosque: