Eğri Minare is a Seljuk-era minaret located on Nevşehir Street in the center of Aksaray, built between 1221-1236. The 30.6-meter structure, made of red bricks, is known for its 3-degree lean and can be visited for free.
Rising on Nevşehir Street in the center of Aksaray, right next to the Ulu Mosque, the Eğri Minare is one of the most striking structures from the Anatolian Seljuk period that has survived to the present day. Believed to have been built between 1221 and 1236, the minaret takes its name from its later acquired leaning posture; for the structure was initially designed to be straight, gaining this interesting appearance over time due to ground movements.
The red bricks, bonded together with Khorasan mortar, are the main reason why the minaret is also known as the Kızıl Minare (Red Minaret). The cylindrical body, rising on a square base, is divided into two sections by a thin molding. With its height of 30.6 meters and a 3-degree lean, the structure is often compared to Italy's world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa; in fact, according to some measurements, its angle of inclination even surpasses that of Pisa. Academic research has shown that the leaning has now stopped, indicating that the minaret will be passed on to future generations with the same fascinating appearance.
Guide's Note
Located in Aksaray city center, the Eğri Minare continues to attract visitors with its 13th-century Seljuk-era work. Also known as Kızıl Minare (Red Minaret) among the public due to its construction from red bricks, the structure offers striking architecture with its approximately 30-meter height and a two-zigzag, one-straight weaving system. The minaret's nearly 2-meter lean is its most distinctive feature, setting it apart from other historical structures in the region.
The structure, which is worth a visit even for a short stop, is easily accessible as it is located in the city center. Visitors recommend not going with the expectation of a large complex or a landscaped area; the structure stands in a simple environment, but you can feel the historical atmosphere firsthand.
Points to note:- The minaret is seen to be supported by ropes due to its lean; some visitors have expressed concerns about the safety of the structure.
- Multiple comments have mentioned a lack of maintenance; it is emphasized that the structure needs more protection.
- It is not a showy tourist area; it would be more appropriate to adjust your expectations accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
Considering that Aksaray's summers are hot and dry, the months of April-May and September-October offer the most comfortable period to visit Eğri Minare. During these months, the weather is mild, and crowds are relatively small. In mid-summer, it is wiser to prefer early mornings as the stone ground and brick surfaces get quite hot during midday. In winter, the minaret gains an extremely photographic appearance when covered in snow; however, one should be prepared for cold and windy weather.
How to Get to Eğri Minare
Eğri Minare is located right in the center of Aksaray on Nevşehir Street; it is not difficult to find on foot for someone who knows the city a little. After reaching the city center from the Aksaray Intercity Bus Terminal by city minibuses, you can reach the minaret's side with a few minutes' walk. For those coming for a day trip from Cappadocia (Nevşehir, Göreme), Aksaray is approximately a 1-1.5 hour journey away. Those arriving by car can find parking spaces in the side streets around Nevşehir Street.
Photo Spots and Visual Tips
As its name suggests, Eğri Minare is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The angle that most clearly emphasizes its lean is obtained from the southeast facade of the minaret; in shots taken from here, the inclination stands out strikingly. Composing it together with the adjacent Ulu Mosque gives the structure its historical context. In the light before sunset, known as the golden hour, the red bricks glow like embers; color saturation naturally increases in photos taken at this time. A wide-angle lens will be the most functional option to fit the entire minaret and its surroundings into a single frame.
What to Eat Nearby
The Aksaray city center, immediately surrounding Eğri Minare, is the area with the highest concentration of local eateries and breakfast places. The prominent flavors of Aksaray cuisine, such as testi kebabı (pottery kebab) and Aksaray tandır eti (tandoor meat), can be found in long-established restaurants in this district. During lunch breaks, the daily menus of local eateries are both economical and filling. Tea gardens within walking distance of the minaret are ideal for a short break.
Suggested Historical Route in Aksaray City Center
Eğri Minare can be combined with other historical structures in Aksaray city center to create a pleasant walking route. First, visit the Ulu Mosque; the minaret is right next to it. Then, walk a few minutes to the Aksaray Archaeology Museum; seeing Seljuk-era artifacts here reinforces the minaret's historical context. For those who can spare a little more time, the Sultan Han Caravanserai near Aksaray is also part of the same Seljuk heritage and is approximately 45 km away. If you are on the Cappadocia route, you can easily add this route to your itinerary while passing through Aksaray.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Eğri Minare is part of an active religious structure; therefore, respectful behavior is expected in the vicinity during prayer times. The exterior can be freely photographed at any time. Access to the interior of the structure may not always be possible; this should be taken into account when planning a visit. Since the pavement around the minaret can be narrow and uneven, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Parking options in Aksaray city center are limited, so it is more practical for those arriving by car to park in nearby streets early in the day.
Historical and Architectural Significance
Eğri Minare is believed to have been built between 1221 and 1236 during the Anatolian Seljuk Sultanate period. The structure, also mentioned in a 1628 Ottoman decree, has been one of Aksaray's unchanging symbols for centuries. The minaret's characteristic red color comes from baked bricks combined with Khorasan mortar; this material choice is one of the most prominent features of Seljuk architecture in Central Anatolia. The cylindrical body, rising on a square base, is divided into two sections by a thin molding and simply reflects the aesthetic understanding of the period. Academic research has shown that the leaning of the minaret is due to ground movements and is no longer progressing.
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