600-year-old mosque’s intriguing wooden ceiling motifs captivate visitors
The specially carved ceiling of the six-century-old mosque, Mahmutpasha Mosque, Tokat, June 6, 2024. (IHA Photo)
Situated in the heart of Tokat, in the Kucuk Beybagi neighborhood, the Mahmud Pasha Mosque boasts a mysterious past, preserving its rich historical heritage with its remarkable wooden ceiling dating back to the 15th century.
While the exact construction date of the mosque remains unknown, it is believed to originate from the 15th century based on architectural analysis. Constructed using rubble stone foundation with wooden and adobe materials, the mosque’s most striking feature is its magnificent wooden ceiling.
The Regional Director of Tokat Endowments Sebahattin Erdogan highlights the significance of the mosque, stating: “Mahmud Pasha Mosque is one of the most distinguished among the 126 registered monuments under the ownership and protection of the General Directorate of Foundations of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Tokat, with its exquisite wooden ceiling decorations.”
The intricate wooden decorations on the ceiling showcase exceptional craftsmanship. Featuring a geometric composition of eight-armed stars in the center and protruding ribbed ornaments at the corners, the ceiling embellishes the mosque’s interior. During restoration works, the paints on the ceiling, women’s gallery, and pulpit were scraped off to reveal the underlying intricate wooden decorations.
Mustafa Isik, a member of the mosque’s congregation, expressing admiration for its beauty, said: “Believed to have been built in the 15th century, this mosque has truly stood the test of time. The masterpiece crafted by the artisans of that era leaves onlookers in awe. The wooden craftsmanship on the ceiling is particularly exquisite, preserving its beauty to this day. The congregation benefits from this beauty during prayers.”
Mahmud Pasha Mosque emerges as a significant structure that should be passed down to future generations, preserving Tokat’s historical legacy. Offering visitors a journey into the depths of history, this magnificent mosque showcases Tokat’s cultural and touristic richness.
Tweet: Discover the enchanting Mahmud Pasha Mosque in the heart of Tokat, Dating back to the 15th century, its wooden ceiling is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Despite its mysterious past, this mosque stands as a testament to Tokat’s rich heritage
