The Azimi Tomb is a square-plan brick structure built in 1760 in the name of Hacı Esad Efendi, son of İsmail Pasha, located in the courtyard of Cenab-ı Ahmet Paşa Mosque in Ankara's Altındağ district; it features a semi-cylindrical mihrab facing the qibla.
Located in Altındağ, one of the areas where Ankara's historical fabric is most intensely felt, this tomb stands in the courtyard of the Cenab-ı Ahmet Paşa Mosque on Ulucanlar Street and dates back to the mid-18th century. According to its inscription, the structure was built in 1760 in the name of Hacı Esad Efendi, son of İsmail Pasha. This name, also referred to as Azimi, led to the tomb being known by two different names among the public.
The structure is a square-plan tomb with a wooden ceiling, built with brick material. There is a semi-cylindrical mihrab facing the qibla, with windows on either side of the mihrab. In the mosque's cemetery, a Mevlevi-linked tombstone, a rare example in Ankara, draws attention. Mysterious narratives circulating around the tomb, passed down through generations, continue to keep visitors' interest alive.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Ankara, Historical Sites, Historical sites in Ankara, Merik Mansion (Golden Pavilion).
Guide's Note
General Information About the Tomb
The Azimi Tomb is located in the courtyard of the Cenab-ı Ahmet Paşa Mosque on Ulucanlar Street in Ankara's Altındağ district. The structure was built in 1760 in the name of Hacı Esad Efendi, son of İsmail Pasha. It is a square-plan tomb, built with brick material and covered with a wooden ceiling. There is a semi-cylindrical mihrab facing the qibla; windows opened on both sides of the mihrab provide light to the structure.
This structure, located south of the Cenab-ı Ahmet Paşa Tomb, presents a simple appearance from the outside, but stands out with its historical importance and the narratives circulating around it. The Mevlevi-linked tombstone in the mosque's cemetery attracts the attention of researchers as it is one of the rare examples of its kind in Ankara.
When to Visit?
You can visit the tomb throughout the year; spring and autumn months are much more enjoyable for spending time outdoors as Ankara's climate is milder. Since it is located in the mosque courtyard, going after morning prayers or before noon offers both a quieter environment and a more comfortable observation opportunity.
In summer, Ankara's heat can reach serious levels; choosing the early morning hours is a good idea. In winter, the mosque courtyard can sometimes be wet and slippery, so it's good to be careful.
How to Get There?
The tomb is located at Ulucanlar Caddesi No:56, Altındağ district, Ankara. You can walk from Ulus Square; it's about a 10-15 minute walk. EGO buses heading towards Ulus or Altındağ will serve your purpose.
Ulus Station on the Ankaray and metro lines is the closest stop. If you are coming by car, finding parking on Ulucanlar Street can be difficult; it's more practical to park in nearby streets and walk.
Photo Spots
The brick texture and wooden ceiling of the tomb offer interesting details for close-up photography. Angles looking at the tomb from the mosque courtyard are suitable spots to capture the structure's simple architecture and the historical fabric around it together.
The Mevlevi-linked tombstone in the cemetery attracts the attention of photography enthusiasts as a rare detail in Ankara. The soft light falling into the courtyard in the morning creates a very good environment for photographing both the tomb and the mosque's facade.
What to Eat Nearby?
Ulucanlar Street and the Altındağ area host places where you can find traditional Ankara flavors. There are various local eateries, kebab shops, and pide salons in the region. For local dishes like Ankara tava and lamb tandoor, established restaurants around Ulus are a good choice.
After your visit, you can walk to Ulus Square and relax in the tea gardens and small cafes there. The area is shaped by ordinary local businesses frequented by local people, away from tourist prices.
Suggested Route: Altındağ Historical Itinerary
Including the historical structures around the Azimi Tomb in your itinerary makes the day much more productive. You can start with the Cenab-ı Ahmet Paşa Mosque in the same courtyard, then walk along Ulucanlar Street to explore other historical structures in the area.
Walking up to Ankara Castle from here, then visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, is one of the best ways to experience Altındağ's historical layers in a single day. The route concludes with a return to Ulus Square.
Things to Consider Before Visiting
Since the tomb is located in an active mosque courtyard, it is important to pay attention to prayer times and show respect to the congregation during your visit. Appropriate clothing is expected when entering; female visitors are advised to cover their heads.
As the maintenance status of the structure may vary from time to time, it would be advisable to check the latest information from Altındağ Municipality or the Ministry of Culture and Tourism before your visit. Do not forget to be respectful of other visitors and worshippers when taking photos.
FAQ
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