Historic tombs discovered during mosque restoration in Türkiye
Historic tombs and burial remains detected during the restoration works at Meydan Mosque in Tokat, Türkiye, January 17, 2025. (IHA Photo)
During restoration efforts at Tokat’s Meydan Mosque (Gulbahar Hatun Mosque), historic tombs and burial remains were discovered, prompting the Sivas Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Assets to approve archaeological excavation work in the area.
Historic mosque restoration unveils historic tombs
The Gulbahar Hatun Mosque, located in Tokat and under the ownership and protection of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Directorate General of Foundations, has yielded unexpected findings during its restoration.
Originally built by Sultan Bayezid II in 1485 in honor of his mother, Gulbahar Hatun, the mosque’s restoration project uncovered tombs and burial remains in the southwest section of the building.
Excavation plans begin with museum supervision
The restoration work, which began on December 20, 2024, with the handover of the site, led to the discovery of the tombs and remains. In accordance with the decision of the Sivas Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Assets, archaeological excavations will begin under the supervision of the museum.
These excavations aim to further explore the historical significance of the burial site.
Environmental measures prompt tree removal in courtyard
Due to the presence of certain trees located over the remains and the potential risks they pose, an environmental regulation project was approved by the Sivas Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Assets.
The project, approved on Dec. 27, 2024, involves the controlled removal of aging trees that were planted too close to one another, with their growth inhibited. Once the tree removal is completed, excavation work will proceed in the courtyard under museum oversight.
This archaeological discovery adds another layer to the rich history of Tokat and its monumental landmarks.
With further excavation and preservation efforts underway, these findings are expected to shed light on the region’s past and contribute to the protection of cultural heritage in Türkiye.
