Habib-i Neccar Mosque is a 7th-century structure known as the first mosque in Anatolia, located on Kurtuluş Street in Antakya, Hatay; it was restored and reopened for worship after the 2023 earthquake.
Habib-i Neccar Mosque is a structure that carries many layers of history since the 7th century when Muslim Arabs conquered Antakya. It is known to have been built on an ancient pagan temple; it remains the first mosque established by Arabs within the borders of present-day Turkey. The structure, converted into a church when Byzantium recaptured Antakya in 968, was turned back into a mosque when Seljuk armies entered the city in 1084. The current structure dates back to the Ottoman period; its courtyard features a 19th-century fountain, and tombs are located in its northeast corner.
The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes caused significant damage to the mosque. Extensive restoration work was initiated, restoring the structure to its former appearance. Visitors note that the renovation was successful and that the mosque has gained a spacious, clean atmosphere. The tomb located in the cellar-like area beneath the mosque is particularly highlighted in comments as a must-see. The complex, which forms an integrated texture with the surrounding historical Antakya houses, is one of Hatay's most important stops for both faith and cultural tourism.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Hatay historical places, Arsuz.
Guide's Note
Anatolia's First Mosque: A Brief History
The history of Habib-i Neccar Mosque dates back to the 7th century when Muslim Arabs conquered Antakya. The structure was built on an existing pagan temple and went down in history as the first mosque established by Arabs within the borders of present-day Turkey. This ancient structure changed hands many times over the centuries: it was converted into a church when Byzantium recaptured Antakya in 968, and then turned back into a mosque in 1084 when Seljuk commander Kutalmışoğlu Süleyman conquered the city.
The structure standing today belongs to the Ottoman period. The mosque, which has a transverse rectangular plan, forms a complex with madrasah cells, a fountain, and tombs. In the northeast corner of the mosque, there are tombs associated with the apostles of Jesus; beneath the structure, there is another historical tomb that visitors particularly draw attention to.
When to Visit?
The most suitable time to visit is during the hours between prayer times. The period between noon and afternoon prayers allows you to comfortably explore the interior of the mosque and spend time in the courtyard. For those who want to experience the spiritual atmosphere more calmly, morning hours are a good option; however, visitors note that the gate might be closed in the early morning, so it's a good idea to confirm the situation before going.
The most comfortable visiting period during the year is spring and autumn. Since Antakya summers are quite hot, staying outdoors for long periods during midday in July-August can be tiring.
How to Get There?
The mosque is located in Antakya city center at the intersection of Kurtuluş Street and Kemalpaşa Street. Being right in the city center, it is possible to reach the historical bazaar and other important points on foot.
After arriving at the city center from Hatay Airport by taxi or shuttle, you can walk to the mosque. City minibuses also regularly operate from Antakya bus terminal to the center. If you are coming by car, keep in mind that there might be construction machinery and construction sites in the vicinity due to ongoing urban transformation works after the earthquake; prefer to park nearby and walk.
What to Eat Nearby?
Habib-i Neccar Mosque is within walking distance of Antakya's historical bazaar and its gastronomically rich streets. Antakya cuisine forms one of Turkey's most unique culinary geographies. In the restaurants immediately surrounding the mosque, you can taste künefe, katmer, hummus, muhammara, and various kebab types. Antakya's famous olive oils and spices are also sold in shops in the historical bazaar.
Photo Spots
The mosque's courtyard, especially the stone-paved area around the fountain, offers a beautiful frame for photography. Wide-angle shots taken with the historical Antakya houses surrounding the complex reflect the structure's integration with the urban fabric. The tomb area beneath the mosque is suitable for taking interesting photos in terms of light and atmosphere. You can see comparative photos from before and after the earthquake in the nearby museum.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Habib-i Neccar Mosque is an active place of worship. When entering, you are expected to remove your shoes, women to cover their heads, and wear modest clothing. During prayer times, visitors may not be able to use certain parts of the mosque.
Although post-earthquake restoration has been completed, there may still be ongoing construction work in the vicinity; this sometimes makes access to the mosque difficult. It is recommended to keep your visiting hours flexible and to confirm in advance whether the gate is open.
Current State of the Mosque After Restoration
The 2023 earthquakes caused significant damage to Habib-i Neccar Mosque; subsequent restoration efforts brought the structure back to life. Visitors emphasize that the renovation was successfully completed and that the mosque has gained a spacious, clean appearance. Photos from before and after the earthquake are exhibited in the nearby museum; thus, the transformation can be seen firsthand.
Visiting the tomb located in the cellar-like area beneath the mosque is a detail particularly recommended by many visitors. The peaceful atmosphere felt as soon as you step into the courtyard and the history told by the centuries-old stones make this place an indispensable stop on a visit to Hatay.
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