Gurgi Mosque, Ottoman mosque in Medina district, Tripoli, Libya
Gurgi Mosque is an Ottoman house of prayer in the Medina district of Tripoli with fifteen decorative domes and a minaret rising about 25 meters high. The minaret is built from natural green marble and displays elaborate floral patterns throughout.
Naval captain Mustafa Gurgi commissioned the construction in 1834 during the rule of Ottoman Pasha Yusuf Karamanli. This marked an important moment in the religious architecture of Tripoli at that time.
Inside, you see Quranic verses written in Andalusian script alongside geometric patterns and plant designs that show Islamic artistic traditions. These decorations create a rich visual experience as you walk through the prayer hall.
Visiting is best during early morning hours when the building is open to visitors. The location is near the Roman Arch of Marcus Aurelius in the old section of Tripoli, making it easy to find alongside other nearby landmarks.
An antechamber inside holds the burial place of Mustafa Gurgi and his family members. This personal connection ties the founder directly to the religious structure he created.
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