The Tomb of Pirsefa Hazretleri and Prophet Yuşa is a religious structure located in the historical bazaar area of Gaziantep's Boyacı Neighborhood, housing Prophet Yuşa and his tomb keeper Pirsefa Hazretleri. It is open to visitors free of charge.
Located on the street extending from Boyacı Mosque to Kavaflar Bazaar in the Boyacı Neighborhood of Gaziantep, this tomb consists of a simple, single-story structure. It contains two separate rooms; according to tradition, Prophet Yuşa rests in one room, and Pirsefa Hazretleri in the other. Standing silently amidst the hammering sounds of coppersmiths and the lively noise of the bazaar, this structure forms one of the most interesting points in Antep's spiritual geography.
Prophet Yuşa is known as the nephew of Prophet Moses and is considered the prophet who led the Israelites to the land of Canaan. Pirsefa Hazretleri, according to tradition, was Prophet Yuşa's tomb keeper; he did not leave his side after his death and continued to serve him. The mention of these two names in the same place adds a special significance to the tomb. These two figures, counted among the saints referred to as the spiritual guardians of Gaziantep, hold a deep place in the city's historical and religious memory.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Gaziantep historical places, Yesemek Open-Air Museum.
Guide's Note
This tomb, located within Gaziantep's coppersmiths' bazaar, stands out as a spiritually significant stop that can be visited while exploring the bazaar. Visitors report that Prophet Yuşa and his tomb keeper Pirsefa Hazretleri are buried side by side here. If your path takes you through the bazaar, it's a suitable spot for a short visit.
Some uncertainties regarding the tomb's identity are noteworthy: multiple visitors state that tombs belonging to Prophet Yuşa are found in different countries and cities; they emphasize that there is no clear written information on site regarding this tomb's relation to the one in Istanbul. There are also visitors who believe the surroundings need to be organized.
- Access issue: The key to the tomb is held by nearby shopkeepers; if the shopkeeper is not present, entry is not possible. It is recommended to consider this before your visit.
- Lack of identity information: There is no written information at the site explaining the history of the tomb or the identity of the individuals buried there.
- Environmental arrangement: Several visitors state that the area needs improvement in terms of physical maintenance and landscaping.
About the Tomb
Tucked away in the narrow streets of Boyacı Neighborhood within Gaziantep's historical bazaar area, this tomb stands like a quiet corner unaware of the city's hustle and bustle. With its simple, single-story structure, it is not a magnificent architectural example; but in terms of its significance, it holds a solid place on Gaziantep's spiritual map. The tomb, consisting of two separate rooms, houses the resting places of Prophet Yuşa and Pirsefa Hazretleri.
According to tradition, Pirsefa was Prophet Yuşa's tomb keeper. He dedicated his life to serving him and was buried next to him after his death. This connection strengthens the meaning of the two names being commemorated under the same roof. Visiting this tomb amidst the hammering sounds of coppersmiths and the commotion of the bazaar makes one feel Gaziantep's layered history a little more deeply.
When to Visit?
The tomb is open for visits throughout the year, but spring and autumn are the most comfortable periods to explore Gaziantep. The city can get quite hot in the summer months; it's wiser to prefer morning hours during this period. On Fridays, the tomb can be more crowded with people coming from nearby mosques; if you want a quiet visit, choose weekday mornings.
How to Get There?
The tomb is located in Boyacı Neighborhood, intertwined with the Coppersmiths' Bazaar, in Gaziantep city center. You can easily reach the historical bazaar area by city minibus or taxi. Once there, you can walk to the tomb by following Boyacı Street. For those coming by car, there are paid parking options nearby; it is not recommended to try to enter the bazaar area by car due to the narrow streets.
Include in Your Bazaar Route
The Tomb of Pirsefa Hazretleri and Prophet Yuşa is a stop you can easily add to your itinerary while exploring Gaziantep's historical bazaar area. The Coppersmiths' Bazaar, Kavaflar Bazaar, and Boyacı Mosque are all in the immediate vicinity of this tomb. You can also include the historical Grand Bazaar and Zincirli Bedesten in the same walk. For those who want to create a route of saints covering Gaziantep's other spiritual pilgrimage sites, this tomb can be a good starting point.
What to Eat Nearby?
The bazaar area where the tomb is located is one of the oldest and most delicious street food areas in Gaziantep. You can find katmer, beyran soup, and lahmacun in the small restaurants nearby. Buying Antep pistachios and baklava from the small shops in the historical bazaar can also become a natural part of this visit.
Things to Pay Attention To
The tomb is an active religious site; it is necessary to behave quietly and respectfully during your visit. Female visitors are expected to cover their heads; having a scarf with you will suffice. If you wish to take photos inside the tomb, it would be appropriate to ask for permission from the official beforehand. Since it is located within the bazaar, walk carefully in the narrow streets; bazaar traffic can be heavy, especially on weekdays.
Photography Notes
The tomb itself is a limited area for photography, but the surrounding Coppersmiths' Bazaar offers an extremely photographic atmosphere. Masters working copper accompanied by hammering sounds, narrow streets, and historical structures allow you to capture powerful shots in this area. Boyacı Mosque is also a beautiful stop for photography in the immediate vicinity.
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