Architect Sinan’s works in Thrace defy years

Mimar Sinan, the renowned Ottoman architect, left a lasting legacy on Thrace’s architectural landscape, just as he did throughout the vast Ottoman Empire

Scattered across Thrace, from Edirne to Tekirdag and Kirklareli, stand the architectural marvels of Sinan the Great. These are not merely buildings; they are monuments that serve as enduring testaments to the region’s rich artistic heritage and the profound aesthetic sensibilities of the 16th century.

Masterpiece Selimiye

The crowning jewel of Ottoman architecture, the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, stands as a testament to Mimar Sinan’s genius. Completed in 1575, this magnificent structure is the most prominent example of Mimar Sinan’s mastery.

The mosque’s significance reached new heights in 2011 when UNESCO inscribed it as the first mosque on its World Heritage List, recognizing its unparalleled features and awe-inspiring design.

Professor Sennur Akansel, head of the Department of Building Information, Department of Architecture at Trakya University, aptly described the mosque’s significance, stating that it “crowns the city’s silhouette.”

Stating that Selimiye is the most magnificent work of its period and later times with its technical perfection, dimensions and aesthetic values, Akansel said, “Selimiye Mosque, the masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, one of the most valuable of Ottoman architecture, is not only one of the most magnificent works of architectural art but also a masterpiece of human creative genius.”

Professor Akansel further emphasizes the significance of the Selimiye Mosque by suggesting it represents the pinnacle of mosque architecture achieved by Sinan. She added that the mosque represents the culmination of Sinan’s lifelong experiences and experimentation.

The ongoing restoration of the mosque is expected to be completed next year.

Stating that Sinan built many works in Edirne and Thrace besides the Selimiye Mosque, Akansel said, “There are historical bridges, bazaars, and mosques. This is an indication that our city is rich in Sinan’s works.”

There are 13 works of Sinan within the borders of Edirne.

Sinan’s works in Tekirdag and Kirklareli

Sinan has two important works in Tekirdag: Rustem Pasha Mosque and Cedid Ali Pasha Mosque.

Rustem Pasha Mosque, built by Sinan between 1547 and 1553 on a hill overlooking the sea by Sultan Suleiman I’s son-in-law Rustem Pasha, draws attention with its single-balcony minaret, five-column fountain, and doors and windows decorated with geometric motifs.

Cedid Ali Pasha Mosque in the Marmaraereglisi district was built in 1565 by Cedid Ali Pasha, one of Suleiman the Magnificent’s grand viziers. The mosque’s architect was Sinan. Tekirdag Culture and Tourism Director Ahmet Hacioglu stated, “The works of Sinan are a symbol of the city.”

Hacioglu emphasized the significance of Rustem Pasha Mosque as one of the Ottoman period’s most notable architectural marvels, stating, “It stands out as Tekirdag’s primary religious tourism attraction. Serving as the initial destination for visitors to Tekirdag, Rustem Pasha Mosque holds symbolic importance. Its historical value is accentuated by its construction patronage and location.” Additionally, Hacioglu highlighted the allure of Cedid Ali Pasha Mosque in Marmaraereglisi, remarking on its architectural grandeur that mirrors the essence of Ottoman design principles.

Sinan’s masterpiece bridges, mosques in Kirklareli attract attention

Kirklareli’s Director of Culture and Tourism Veli Sen highlighted the city’s growing appeal for tourists. He pointed to the presence of several structures designed by Sinan, including mosques and bridges. These historical sites are attracting significant interest from visitors.

Stating that the Cedid Ali Pasha Mosque in Babaeski district, which Sinan  built in 1555, 20 years before he built Selimiye, and the Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque in Luleburgaz district, built in 1570, still preserve their splendor, Sen said that the bridges built by Sinan have defied centuries.

Praising the resilience of Mimar Sinan’s architectural achievements, Sen pointed to the Alpullu and Sokullu Mehmet Pasha bridges, which have stood strong for centuries.

Source: Newsroom