Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque and Four-Legged Minaret

The feature that distinguishes Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque from other mosque structures is that its minaret rests not on the ground but on four monolithic basalt stone columns. Built in 1500 by Akkoyunlu Bey Kasım Bey, this structure has been one of Diyarbakır's most recognized symbols ever since. The minaret's four-sided body and the four columns supporting it are interpreted as representing the four schools of Islamic jurisprudence: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. This symbolic parallel established with the four main gates of Diyarbakır's city walls also adds a distinct meaning to the structure.

The minaret attracts attention not only with its architectural originality but also with its location: it rises in the very center of the historical bazaar, amidst daily life. This allows visitors to observe Diyarbakır's vibrant street life while walking around the minaret.

Diyarbakır's summers are quite hot; therefore, the most suitable periods to visit Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque and its surroundings are April–May and September–October. During these periods, the weather is milder, and walking through the historical streets becomes much more enjoyable.

For those who want to take photos, the afternoon hours are particularly favorable due to the light filtering through the columns as the sun sets. Since there might be crowds during Friday prayer times, weekday mornings can be preferred for a quieter visit.

Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque is located on Yenikapı Street in the historical bazaar area of Diyarbakır's Sur district. It is possible to reach Sur from the city center by minibus or dolmuş. Since it is quite close to the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), it is easy to visit both structures on the same walk.

Driving within the historical bazaar can be difficult; therefore, it is more practical to park your vehicle in a suitable nearby area and walk. Since Sülüklü Han is also located in the same area, a short walking route combining these three points can be created.

The best photographs of the minaret are obtained from wide-angle positions where all four columns are framed. Shots taken from between the columns looking upwards dramatically reflect the minaret's silhouette reaching towards the sky.

As the sun sets in the afternoon, the light filtering through the columns casts a golden hue on the courtyard; these hours are the most productive for photography. The image of the minaret framed with the surrounding historical streets and bazaar texture offers powerful shots reflecting Diyarbakır's urban fabric.

The historical bazaar area where Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque is located hosts venues offering the most authentic flavors of Diyarbakır cuisine. Liver kebab, stuffed ribs (kaburga dolması), and Diyarbakır-style pita can easily be found in this district. Around the nearby Sülüklü Han, there are both traditional tea houses and small restaurants serving local dishes.

When exploring Diyarbakır's Sur district, making Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque part of a walking route offers both a practical and satisfying experience. You can start from the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), walk through the historical bazaar to reach the Four-Legged Minaret, and then visit Sülüklü Han and Diyarbakır House. This route takes approximately 2–3 hours to complete and allows you to fully experience the city's historical fabric.

Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque is an active place of worship. When entering during prayer times, it is important to be quiet and adhere to appropriate dress codes. Passing seven times through the minaret's four columns and making a wish is a common tradition in the region; visitors are expected to respect this custom. As it is located within the historical bazaar, there may be street vendors and heavy pedestrian traffic in the vicinity.