Niğde Alaaddin Mosque Explained

Niğde Alaaddin Mosque
Native Name:Alâeddin Camii
Map Type:Turkey
Religious Affiliation:Islam
Location:Kale mahallesi, Niğde
Coordinates:37.9664°N 34.6789°W
Region:Central Anatolia
District:Niğde
Functional Status:Active
Architecture:yes
Architect:Sıddık
Architecture Type:Mosque
Year Completed:1223
Dome Quantity:3
Minaret Quantity:1
Materials:Cut stone

Niğde Alaaddin Mosque is a historical mosque in Niğde, Turkey.

The mosque is in the historical castle of Niğde at 37.9664°N 34.6789°W.[1] The mosque was constructed in 1223 during the reign of Keyqubad I (r.1220–1237) of Sultanate of Rum (precursor of the Ottoman Empire). It was commissioned by Ziynettin Beşare, the local governor of Niğde in behalf of the sultan. The chief architect of the mosque was Sıddık, the son of Mahmut. His brother Gazi was his assistant.

The building material is cut stone. There are two portals: the one in the east side is monumental. The second gate is in the north side.[2] There are three domes in the southern part of the mosque. The minaret is located in the northeastern corner of the square building.

According to local legend, the shape of the muqarnas-carved eastern portal casts a shadow that resembles the silhouette of a crowned girl, ostensibly the founder's daughter with whom the stonemason who built the mosque fell in love.[3]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Alaaddin Cami Nerede Haritası . Haritamaap . 12 June 2019.
  2. Encyclopedia: Alaeddin Camii . Islam Encyclopaedia . tr . 12 June 2019.
  3. News: Alaaddin Camii'nin kapısındaki sır ne? . 1 May 2019 . Dünya Bizim page . tr . 12 June 2019.