Kazanci Ali Aga Mosque

Kazancı Ali Aga Mosque is located at Kazancı Yokuşu in Beyoğlu District of Istanbul. This structure is a 16th century Ottoman Mosque, which was built calculating the elevation difference on the downhill street, and it was built by Kazancıbaşı (Head Boilermaker) Aliağa who also gave his name to the slope.

Kazancıbaşı Aliağa constructed the Kazancı Ali Aga Mosque; however, its minaret and school sections were built by Hacı İbrahim Aga, one of the leading persons in the army. Built on an area of total 220 square metres, the mosque covers 105 square metres, and it has a simple architecture with its square plan, stone materials and roof covered with tiles.

The mosque has undergone many repairs since its constuction. The building, with a simple interior design, has lost its authenticity because of such comprehensive restorations. Therefore, it can be considered as a relatively new building despite its status as an ancient work.

The mosque is surrounded with many settlements; however, a fountain is available at one of the corners of close-by streets dating back to the 18th century. It is a relatively small mosque compared to most mosques in Istanbul, yet its community is crowded contrary to its size. Moreover, it is frequently visited as it is located at one of the touristic destinations.