Çekek Mosque

A small masjid commissioned by a philanthropist named Hortumoğlu previously stood on this site. When it fell into disrepair over time, Sarı Alemdarzade had the current mosque built in April 1884. This history is documented in detail on the inscription above the main entrance. According to the foundation deed (waqfiyya), gardens were also endowed for the imam and muezzin, demonstrating that the structure was established with long-term sustainability in mind. It was officially registered and placed under protection by the Trabzon Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in 1986.

The mosque's most striking feature is the marble inscription above the entrance door. Written in Thuluth calligraphy, the text is arranged across 24 separate panels carved onto the surface. Such an elaborate inscription arrangement is rarely seen in the region. The rectangular doorway features a flat stone lintel and double wooden doors. The single-balcony, polygonal minaret is situated at the northwestern corner. From the outside, the four-sloped hip roof stands out, while the interior features a wooden ceiling. Shots taken from in front of the door or from the opposite sidewalk can capture both the inscription and the minaret in a single frame.

Upon entering, the first thing you notice is the simplicity. The walls are plain, drawing immediate attention to the mihrab. The ashlar stone mihrab with a pentagonal niche features small columns set on cubic bases on both sides, crowned by a simple cornice. The pediment of the mihrab bears a section of Surah Ali 'Imran, verse 37—referencing Zechariah entering the sanctuary—carved in Thuluth script. The same section also includes the names of Allah, Muhammad, the Four Caliphs, Hasan, and Husayn. To the west of the mihrab, the wooden minbar displays modest craftsmanship, matching the overall restraint of the building.

The mosque is located in the Gemilerçekeği neighborhood in Giresun city center. Thanks to its central location, it is easy to reach both by car and on foot. It can easily be combined into the same sightseeing itinerary alongside other historic central landmarks, particularly Giresun Castle and the bazaar district. Local minibus (dolmuş) lines pass near the center, though walking is more practical for short distances.

Çekek Mosque is an active place of worship. It is recommended to keep visits brief or avoid visiting during congregational prayer times. Female visitors should bring a headscarf, and all visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave quietly and respectfully. Shoes must be removed at the entrance, so wearing easy-to-remove footwear is helpful. Admission is free.

Since the mosque is relatively small, a visit of 15-20 minutes is usually sufficient. Those wishing to inspect the calligraphy inscription and mihrab details in depth may want to spend a little more time. If you are planning a one-day trip in central Giresun, it makes sense to pair Çekek Mosque with Giresun Castle, the ruins of Gogora Church, and stops along the coastal promenade. All are located close to each other within walking distance.

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