Haji Arap Mosque

Haji Arap Mosque, located on Asker Street in the Samanpazarı District of Ankara, draws attention with its wooden-haired walls. Haji Arap Mosque, which has a simple architecture in general, is not known for its exact year of construction. However, according to the information quoted in written sources, it is understood that this is a mosque dating from the 14th century, based on the architectural details. That period is called the Ahiler(Turkish-Islamic Guild) period in the Ottoman Empire. There is also Ahi Elvan Mosque very close to the mosque. When making all these predictions about the construction of the mosque, especially the mihrab style is taken into consideration. The place of worship, which has a rectangular plan, has no minaret. All parts except the altar are repaired and renovated at least one. Therefore, the old original tissue begins to lose significantly over the years. According to the information provided, the mosque is constructed with materials left over from the construction of Ahi Elvan Mosque. In the first period, this place was essentially built as a masjid. The space, which has a flat wooden ceiling, is divided thanks to the pulpit. A total of two mihrabs are located under the same roof. Both mihrabs are made of plaster. It can be said that the mihrab located in the western part is relatively older. The top of the niche of the mihrab begins to narrow with a certain acceleration. Inside the niche,there are eye-catching decorations. Radiated stars or light embossed shapes make up these decorations. The women's mahfil(gatherin-place) of the Haji Arab Mosque sits on square and thin columns. This episode is pretty new. The Masjid portion is illuminated by five windows, three of which are large. A dashboard framed by brick arches stands out on the right side of the entrance door. The name ‘Mehmed’ is written on the bottom of this panel decorated by the passes. The inscription above the tap section is made of marble. During the last repair works, the mosque's ablutions and fountains are renovated. In addition, new steps are created with Ankara stones.