Bülbül Camii (Alemdar Camii), Isparta'nın Uluborlu ilçesinde, 16. Yüzyıldan kalan devşirme taşlarla örülü küçük bir Osmanlı camiidir. Minaresi 1915'te yeniden yapılmış, kitabesi hâlâ okunabilir durumdadır.
Bülbül Mosque stands in the Eski Kasaba area of Uluborlu district, Isparta. Its exact construction date is unknown; based on its architectural features and materials, it is dated to the 16th century. This is a rectangular-plan, barrel-vaulted, two-story structure. Reused ancient stones (spolia) were used at the corners of the exterior walls, the side walls were built with rubble stone, and wooden beams were placed between them. On the west wall, there are three large windows below and five small windows on the upper floor. The reason it is popularly called Bülbül Mosque (Nightingale Mosque) is that in the past, muezzins were specifically chosen from people with beautiful voices.
The mosque's minaret rises in the southeast corner. The current minaret is actually the second one: the first was built by the Hacı İzzet Pasha family, but during World War I, in H. 1331 / M. 1915, Mustafa Mashar Bey, the Head of the Military Branch at the time, undertook a comprehensive repair of the mosque and had the minaret rebuilt. The inscription on the minaret contains a poetic text praising this construction date, with the line "a pure one came and said the perfect essence of history" marking the date. The structure today belongs to the General Directorate of Foundations and was registered as a 2nd-degree monumental structure in 1988.
Uluborlu is a quiet district, approximately 50 kilometers from Isparta city center. The mosque receives few visitors as it is off the crowded tourist routes. This allows visitors to see the structure as it is, in an untouched atmosphere. It forms a route that can be visited together with the Alaaddin Mosque, also located in the same district.
Guide's Note
What is Bülbül Mosque, and Why Was It Given This Name?
The mosque is officially registered as Alemdar Mosque but is popularly known as Bülbül Mosque. The reason for this is that in the past, muezzins for the mosque were specifically chosen from people with beautiful voices. The trace of this tradition still lives on in the popular name the structure bears today. Architecturally, it has a rectangular plan and a barrel roof; in its two-story interior layout, the second floor is located on the north side.
When Was the Mosque Built?
There is no definitive record of its construction. Based on the materials used and the architectural style, it is believed to have been built in the 16th century. The structure has undergone several repairs throughout its history; the most comprehensive one took place in H. 1331 / M. 1915. During this repair, the minaret was completely renovated.
How to Get There?
From Isparta city center, Uluborlu is approximately 50 kilometers by road. It takes about an hour by private car, and there are also intercity minibus services. After arriving in the district, you can reach the Eski Kasaba area, on Alemdar Mustafa Pasha Street, by walking.
The Inscription on the Minaret
One of the most striking details of the mosque is the poetic inscription located on the minaret in the southeast corner. This text, written in reference to its construction in 1915, serves as a small document of the period. For photography enthusiasts, examining the inscription and the spolia stone craftsmanship of the minaret up close is one of the most interesting moments of the visit.
What Else to See in Uluborlu?
The Alaaddin Mosque, located in the same district, is situated at the foot of Uluborlu Castle and was built with spolia stones from the ancient Apollonia ruins; it can easily be seen on the same route as Bülbül Mosque. The narrow streets and historical texture of the district are suitable for creating a short walking route connecting the two mosques.
What Should Be Noted When Visiting?
The mosque is actively open for worship; those wishing to visit outside of prayer times may need to contact the official in advance. As it is a religious site, it is important to be quiet and dress appropriately. It is useful for women to have a headscarf.
How Long Does the Visit Take?
15-20 minutes is sufficient to examine the mosque's exterior facade, minaret, and inscription. If it is possible to enter, the duration may be slightly longer. A half-day trip can be planned to include other historical structures in Uluborlu.
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