Kebir-Jami Mosque, Simferopol, Ottoman mosque in Old town Ak-Mechet, Simferopol, Ukraine.
The Kebir-Jami Mosque is a house of prayer in Simferopol's old town with a single dome, minaret, and white chalk stone walls that shape its traditional appearance. The religious complex holds about 200 worshippers and includes prayer spaces alongside areas for study and a library dedicated to Crimean Tatar literature.
Built in 1508 by architect Abdurrahman-bek-Ali for Khan Meñli I Giray, it is the oldest surviving structure in Simferopol. After World War II it was converted into a book-binding workshop before undergoing complete restoration in 1993 to resume religious services.
The mosque has always been central to Crimean Tatar life and continues to serve as a gathering place for prayer and community activities. Visitors can observe how this space brings people together for both religious and social purposes.
The site sits in the old town and is easy to reach on foot, with the white facade and minaret visible from several streets. Visitors should expect that modest dress is required and that there may be specific visiting times for non-worshippers.
The minaret was damaged during World War II and the structure was later converted into a book-binding workshop rather than being restored immediately. This unusual chapter reflects how different periods shaped the building's story.
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