Restoration Works Begin at 800-Year-Old Anatolian Seljuk Mosque

Restoration works are starting in the 800-year-old Anatolian Seljuk mosque in Sivrihisar’s Hamamkarahisar neighbourhood. This mosque is an important historical and architectural landmark from the Anatolian Seljuk period. It is known for its intricate designs and rich history, showcasing the cultural heritage of the Seljuk Empire.

Sivrihisar Mayor Habil Dökmeci shared, “Our mosque has been idle in our district. The late Orhan Keskin wished to see its restoration, but he did not live to witness it. We have pledged to preserve the legacies left to us by our ancestors. We will begin the tender process for the restoration works soon.”

The restoration project will preserve the mosque’s unique architectural features and ensure its structural integrity for future generations. Experts will use traditional techniques and materials to maintain the authenticity of this historical site.

This initiative highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage. It also aims to boost tourism in the region, attracting history enthusiasts and architecture lovers from around the world.

Stay tuned for updates on the restoration progress and the reopening of this magnificent Seljuk mosque, a true gem of Anatolian history.

The Anatolian Seljuk State

The Anatolian Seljuk State played a crucial role in the settlement of Turks in Anatolia and the spread of Islamic civilization in these lands. Following the 1071 Battle of Malazgirt, the Turks opened up to Anatolia and quickly established political unity across a vast region.

The founder of the state, Suleyman Shah, was one of the beys of the Great Seljuk Empire in Anatolia. In 1077, he chose İznik as the center and established an independent state. This marked the beginning of a new era for the region.

Cultural and Architectural Development

The Anatolian Seljuks, who made Konya their capital, marked an important period for the rooting and development of Turkish-Islamic civilization in Anatolia. During this time, many structures such as madrasas, caravanserais, and mosques were built. Additionally, great thinkers like Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi lived during this period and contributed significantly to the cultural richness of the region.

Challenges and Decline

However, the Mongol invasion in the 13th century weakened the power of the Anatolian Seljuk State. This situation adversely affected the political and economic structure of the state. As a result, many small principalities emerged in Anatolia, leading to the fragmentation of the Seljuk State. These principalities reshaped the political landscape of the region.

The Rise of the Ottoman Beylik

In the wake of the Seljuk decline, the Ottoman Beylik took advantage of the situation to gain strength and establish dominance in the region. The Ottomans inherited the Seljuk legacy and initiated a new era in Anatolia, which would eventually lead to the establishment of a vast empire.