Abdüsselam Mosque is an Ottoman-era mosque located in İzmit's Kemalpaşa Neighborhood, built by Mimar Sinan in 1524. Its single-domed structure, made of cut stone and brick, reflects early architectural understanding and is open for free visits.
Rising on İmaret Yokuşu Street in central İzmit, Abdüsselam Mosque was built by Mimar Sinan in 1524 (Hijri 931) at the request of Abdüsselam Çelebi, the chief treasurer of the time. This small but valuable structure, which went down in history as one of Sinan's first known works, has maintained its place in İzmit's religious and cultural life for over five centuries. Visitors state that they are impressed by the mosque's spiritual atmosphere and simple architecture; for many, it is a must-see stop in İzmit.
Built with cut stone and brick, the structure reflects the early Ottoman mosque style with its single-domed, simple architecture and a dome in front of the mihrab. Damaged by earthquakes several times throughout history, the mosque suffered extensive damage in the 1776 earthquake; according to the inscription dated H.1289 / M. 1872–1873 on its northern facade, it was rebuilt during this period. Its outer perimeter walls and minaret largely preserve the features of its original construction period. According to visitor comments, the mosque has a capacity of approximately 200–210 people and continues to gather congregations for daily prayers.
Guide's Note
Abdüsselam Mosque, located in central İzmit, is described by visitors as a small but historically significant structure. Built in 1524 at the request of Defterdar Abdüsselam, the mosque has suffered earthquake damage at various times and has reached the present day through repairs. With a capacity of approximately 200-210 people, the structure is conveniently located in the center of İzmit.
The vast majority of visitors speak positively about the mosque's spiritual atmosphere and simple beauty. For some visitors, the mosque has become a regular stop on their route, attracting interest with its historical texture. However, it has been shared that the congregation for the evening prayer is quite small (10-15 people); this may give an idea about the intensity of the mosque's active use.
- Visiting hours: One visitor states that the mosque is closed outside of prayer times; it is recommended to check if it is open before going.
- Parking issue: It is reported that finding parking for cars in the immediate vicinity is seriously difficult; this problem can become more pronounced during crowded events (such as funeral ceremonies).
A Five-Century-Old Structure: The History of the Mosque
Abdüsselam Mosque was built in 1524 during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, under the patronage of Abdüsselam Çelebi, the chief treasurer of the time. Considered among Mimar Sinan's first known works, this mosque holds a special place in architectural history as it reflects the master's work before he entered his mature period.
The structure has suffered earthquake damage several times throughout history. Largely destroyed in the 1776 earthquake, the mosque was rebuilt in 1872–1873. An inscription dated H.1289 above a window on the northern facade documents this reconstruction process. The outer perimeter walls and the minaret are known to bear traces from the original period.
Architectural Features
The mosque was built using cut stone and brick. With its single-domed structure and a dome in front of the mihrab, it reflects the simple but functional understanding of early Ottoman mosque architecture. Unlike grand complexes, this structure serves as a religious space integrated into the neighborhood, with a scale harmonious with human dimensions. With a capacity of approximately 200–210 people, it continues to function as an active congregational mosque.
When to Visit?
The mosque is open for visits throughout the year; however, since it may be closed outside of prayer times, it is recommended to align your visit with prayer times. Midday or afternoon is a suitable time to both see the interior of the mosque and quietly explore its surroundings. Keep in mind that it may be crowded during Friday prayer times.
How to Get There?
Abdüsselam Mosque is located within walking distance of İzmit city center, on İmaret Yokuşu Street in Kemalpaşa Neighborhood. Since it is approximately 100 meters from the city center, you can easily reach it on foot. After arriving at İzmit center by public transport, simply follow İmaret Yokuşu Street. If you are coming by car, finding parking in the surrounding streets can sometimes be difficult, so it would be wise to plan ahead in this regard.
Photo Spots
The mosque's exterior facade, with its original stone texture and minaret, is suitable for taking beautiful photographs. Wide-angle shots taken from street level are a good option to reflect the structure's scale integrated with the neighborhood. In the morning light, the texture of the stone surfaces becomes more prominent. When taking photos inside, remember to respect worshippers.
Suggested Route: İzmit Historic Center Tour
Abdüsselam Mosque can be a natural part of a walking tour in İzmit's historic center. It can be visited along with the nearby Fevziye Mosque. When planning an itinerary that also covers other Ottoman-era structures in İzmit and the city center, dedicating 20–30 minutes to this mosque will enrich your route historically.
Things to Know Before Visiting
As the mosque is an active place of worship, please be quiet during your visit. Female visitors are expected to cover their heads, and modest clothing is preferred for both genders. Entering during prayer times may not be appropriate; try to time your visit between prayers. As mentioned in visitor comments, parking cars in the vicinity sometimes causes problems; this becomes more pronounced during funerals or special occasions.
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