Türkiye’s 600-year-old historic mosque reopens for worship after restoration
A drone photo of the 600-year-old historic Eskipazar (Bayrambey) Mosque in the Eskipazar area of Altinordu district, Ordu. (IHA Photo)
A 600-year-old historic mosque in Ordu’s Altinordu district has reopened for worship following extensive restoration work.
The Eskipazar (Bayrambey) Mosque, originally built between 1380 and 1390 during the Haciemirolari period, underwent a meticulous renovation supported by the Ordu Metropolitan Municipality and the Ordu Governorship’s Investment Monitoring and Coordination Department (YIKOB).
The restoration project, which included structural and environmental enhancements, has revived the mosque’s architectural splendor while ensuring its functionality for worshippers.
First Friday prayer marks grand reopening
The comprehensive restoration efforts covered the mosque’s prayer hall, mezzanine, facade, roof, minaret, ablution fountain, restrooms, and surrounding landscape.
With the completion of the project, the mosque was officially reopened with a special ceremony, where the first Friday prayer was performed, marking a significant moment for the local community.
Commitment to preserving spiritual and historical heritage
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ordu Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mehmet Hilmi Guler emphasized the importance of preserving historical and spiritual sites for future generations.
“We deeply value our cultural and religious heritage, and we are determined to safeguard these treasures across all 19 districts. The reopening of Eskipazar Mosque is a proud moment, and I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in its restoration,” he stated.
Historic mosques across Ordu restored
Mayor Guler highlighted the broader restoration efforts undertaken in Ordu, noting that several historic mosques across the province had been in a state of disrepair.
“Since taking office, we have restored numerous historic mosques, including Caybasi Cayir Mosque, Gulyali Kestane Mosque, Ikizce Laleli Mosque, and Gurgentepe Eskikoy Mosque, ensuring they are now fully accessible for worshippers,” he explained.
In addition to mosques, the municipality has also focused on preserving religious landmarks such as tombs and shrines, reinforcing the city’s dedication to maintaining its cultural identity. Furthermore, nine prayer rooms (mescits) have been constructed across Ordu, allowing residents convenient access to places of worship within urban spaces.
