Şişli Mosque

Located at a strategic point in the Şişli district, between Abide-i Hürriyet and Halaskargazi Avenues, Şişli Mosque contributes to the historical and cultural fabric of Istanbul.

This structure, distinguished as the first mosque built in Istanbul in the post-Republican era, incorporates original elements of Turkish architecture while paying homage to Ottoman architectural heritage. Construction of the mosque began in 1945 and, after four years, was completed, emerging as a symbol of modern Turkey’s new pursuits in religious architecture.

Architectural Features and Design Details

The architect of Şişli Mosque is Vasfi Egeli, who reinterpreted architectural elements from the classical Ottoman period with a contemporary approach. The mosque is accessed through a spacious courtyard; visitors reach the main entrance by ascending steps after passing through this walled area.

The mosque’s main dome, supported by three semi-domes, reflects the classic dome arrangement of Ottoman mosques. Inside, a small fountain placed beneath the grand chandelier adds a unique touch to the mosque's interior atmosphere.

The mosque’s colonnaded last prayer area is covered with a roof supported by columns. In the courtyard, there is a fountain (şadırvan) for visitors to perform ablution. Although the interior space is simply decorated, it is enriched with elegant calligraphy and decorative inscriptions of various Quranic verses. Notably, the calligraphy above the main door is meticulously crafted. The mosque's interior is equipped with underfloor heating, providing a comfortable environment for worshippers.

Historical Significance of Şişli Mosque

Şişli Mosque holds historical importance as the first mosque built in Istanbul during the Republican period. Although constructed in the mid-20th century, it preserves the distinctive characteristics of Ottoman-era mosques, reflecting respect for traditional Turkish architecture. In this context, it stands as an important example of how religious architecture evolved during Turkey’s modernization process.

Interior Arrangements: Kaaba Cover, Inscriptions, and Calligraphy Art

Inside the mosque, a Kaaba cover reinforces the mosque's spiritual atmosphere. Quranic verses, surahs, and examples of calligraphy on the walls and main dome provide visitors with a visual feast and a peaceful environment for worship. The fine calligraphy above the main door is a striking feature, highlighting an exquisite level of craftsmanship.

Social Facilities of Şişli Mosque

The fountain in the courtyard, an inseparable part of traditional mosque architecture, serves as an area for ablution before prayer. Next to the mosque are social facilities such as a library, rooms for the imam and muezzin, separate washing rooms for men and women (where the deceased are prepared), a funeral waiting room, and restrooms.

These facilities allow the mosque to offer both religious and social functions.

Visiting Şişli Mosque: Directions and Guide

Located centrally in Istanbul’s Şişli district, between Abide-i Hürriyet and Halaskargazi Avenues, the Şişli Mosque is easily accessible.

Situated in a central location that is convenient for both locals and tourists, the mosque is also close to Istanbul’s major shopping and business centers. Visitors to the Şişli area are encouraged to stop by this architectural masterpiece.

Şişli Mosque, which uniquely contributes to Istanbul’s modern religious architecture by combining Ottoman and Turkish architectural features, is an important destination for both local residents and tourists as one of the rare examples of Republican-era architecture in Istanbul.

Şişli Mosque remains an intriguing structure for those who wish to observe the influence of the Ottoman-to-Republic transition on religious architecture and its contributions to Istanbul’s cultural fabric.