Samsun Merkez Camii, Central mosque in Samsun, Turkey.
Samsun Merkez Camii is a mosque in central Samsun that stands out with two tall minarets on its western side, a central dome decorated with floral patterns, and large arched windows that flood the prayer hall with light. The building contains spacious interior rooms and courtyards that expand across multiple levels.
The mosque was built after the Great Fire of Samsun in 1869 destroyed the original wooden structure, and a stone building was constructed in its place. Architect Batumlu Haci Ali designed this new structure in 1884, and it remains standing at this central location today.
The mosque serves as a daily gathering place where locals come to pray and share time together throughout the day. The spacious prayer hall and courtyards create a welcoming environment for the community to observe their religious practices.
The mosque sits next to Samsun Clock Tower and Saathane Square in the city center and can be easily reached on foot from various points downtown. The location is well oriented with clear entrances, making it straightforward for visitors to find their way in.
The building received financial support from the mother of Sultan Abdul Haziz, which led locals to call it informally the Valide Mosque. This contribution from the Sultan's mother made the project a special sign of generosity toward the city.
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