Leaning Minaret, 13th-century red brick minaret in Aksaray, Turkey.
The Leaning Minaret is a 13th-century cylindrical tower standing approximately 31 meters (102 feet) tall with 92 steps leading to its top. It features elaborate zigzag patterns in the lower section and tile mosaics above, with balconies on all four sides of its upper portion.
It was built between 1221 and 1236 during the Seljuk period under Alaeddin Keykubat's rule, representing an important example of medieval Turkish architectural methods. The structure reflects the building techniques and design principles of the early Seljuk era.
The minaret displays green and blue tile mosaics alongside geometric patterns that reflect Seljuk decorative traditions. Visitors can observe how these colorful ornaments distinguish the lower and upper sections of the structure.
The tower leans at an angle of about 3 degrees and was reinforced with steel in 1973 to maintain its stability. Visitors should note that the tilt characterizes the structure and the safety measures enable the landmark to remain in good condition.
The red brick construction gave this minaret the name 'Crimson Minaret' and makes it a visual standout in the city. The distinctive color of the bricks sets this tower apart from other religious structures in the region.
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