Kayalar Masjid

Istanbul is home to many rare examples of Ottoman architecture, and it is possible to come across these works in every corner of the city. Kayalar Mosque is one of the city's historical structures on the Bebek-Rumelihisarı line of the Bosphorus. Built in 1662 by Nişancı Ahmet Sıtkı Pasha, this modest mosque reflects the simple but profound architectural understanding of the Ottoman period. Resembling an Ottoman mansion rather than a mosque, Kayalar Mosque draws attention with its tile roof, wooden structure and small minaret. This structure, which has defied the years, is one of the important works that contribute to the historical beauties of the Bosphorus.

History of Kayalar Mosque

Kayalar Mosque is one of the mosques built to meet the worship needs of the people in the village settlements of Istanbul during the Ottoman period. Built in the mid-17th century, this structure continued its existence as an important historical structure within the urban fabric with the development of the Bosphorus line over time. Built by Nişancı Ahmet Sıtkı Pasha, the mosque continued to serve as a place of worship for the local people for centuries.

Where Does the Name Kayalar Mosque Come From?

The name Kayalar Mosque comes from the rocky terrain in the region where it is located. This geographical feature has caused the mosque to be called "Kayalar Mosque" among the public. In addition, the Durmuş Dede Lodge next to the mosque was known as a structure that was greeted by sailors passing through the Bosphorus in the past. However, although the lodge has not survived to the present day, the mosque built on the rocks continues to exist.

Architectural Features of Kayalar Mosque

Kayalar Mosque has the typical features of village mosques from the Ottoman period. The mosque attracts attention with its tiled roof and wooden architecture. The mosque's single minaret is quite small and this simple structure allows the mosque to have a different character from other structures in the area. The interior of the mosque has rectangular windows with lower and upper sides. The wooden eaves and historical door constitute the aesthetic elements of the structure that defy time.

This small but meaningful structure is one of the elegant examples of Ottoman architecture and continues to contribute to the historical texture of Istanbul.