Baç Çınarlı Mosque is an Ottoman-era mosque located on İnönü Street, near Izmit's eastern gate, built in the late 1800s. Also known as Urgancı Ahmet Çelebi Mosque, the structure was rebuilt in 1933, expanded in 1954, and recently underwent restoration before being reopened for worship. It can be visited free of charge.
Baç Çınarlı Mosque is an inseparable part of Izmit's historical fabric. Also known as Ahmet Çelebi Mosque, after its founder Urgancı Ahmet Çelebi, the structure is sometimes referred to as Yeni Cuma Mosque by the public. Built in the late 1800s, the mosque was rebuilt in 1933; in 1954, the last congregation area was added, expanding it. Recently, the structure underwent a comprehensive restoration, preserving its historical texture, and was officially reopened for worship.
The mosque's location on İnönü Street, within walking distance of the city center, makes it an easily accessible place of worship for both local residents and nearby shopkeepers. With a capacity to accommodate 1,350 people simultaneously, the mosque hosts large congregations and offers opportunities for outdoor worship and relaxation with a pergola system installed in its garden by the Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality. Visitors note that the mosque has been beautifully renovated after the restoration, with some expressing a sense of peace similar to that found in the Sultanahmet and Eyüpsultan mosques.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Kocaeli historical places, Kefken Island.
Guide's Note
Baç Çınarlı Mosque stands out as a well-maintained and charming structure, receiving positive impressions from most visitors, along with its surroundings. The recent restoration work is noticed and appreciated by visitors. Some visitors state that while spending time in the mosque, they feel a sense of peace reminiscent of Istanbul's historic places of worship.
The attentive and helpful attitude of the staff also occasionally receives positive comments. However, a serious complaint regarding the practical use of the mosque also draws attention.
- Ablution facilities: There is a complaint that the ablution taps are kept closed. The reason given is that the mosque cannot cover the water expenses. This situation negatively affects visitors from outside, especially shopkeepers working in the vicinity.
- Toilet access: There is a notification that the mosque's toilets have been taken over for private use; it is recommended to keep this in mind.
History of the Mosque
The foundations of Baç Çınarlı Mosque date back to the late 1800s. The structure is also known by the name of its founder, Urgancı Ahmet Çelebi; it is strategically located near the eastern gate of Izmit. Rebuilt in 1933, the mosque was expanded in 1954 with the addition of the last congregation area. With recent restoration works, the structure was renovated while preserving its historical texture and was reopened for worship with an official ceremony attended by the Governor of Kocaeli.
When to Visit?
If you want to explore the mosque in a calm environment, weekday mornings before noon are a good choice. During Friday prayer times, the congregation density significantly increases. Thanks to the pergola system in the garden, you can also spend time outdoors in mild weather.
How to Get There?
The mosque is located at İnönü Caddesi No:316, approximately 100 meters from Izmit city center. It is possible to reach it on foot from the city center. Its central location provides great convenience for those coming to Izmit by intercity bus or train. If you are coming by private car, you can look for parking on the surrounding streets.
Things to Consider
There are a few practical points you should know before your visit. Some visitors mention that the ablution taps are closed and it becomes difficult to perform ablution; therefore, it is recommended to perform your ablution before coming to the mosque. During prayer times, taking photos inside may be disrespectful to the congregation, so please be careful in this regard. For women, a headscarf and appropriate clothing are mandatory.
Photo Spots
The mosque's restored exterior and the plane trees in its courtyard are among the most attractive spots for photography. The pergola system installed in the garden also offers an interesting visual element. Outside of prayer times, especially around midday, it is possible to catch good light for exterior photos.
What to Eat Nearby?
Since the mosque is within walking distance of Izmit city center, there are many restaurants, cafes, and patisseries nearby. You can check out the shops in the city center to try local sweets, especially Izmit's unique pişmaniye. İnönü Street and its surroundings are also rich in local artisan restaurants.
How Much Time Should You Allocate?
If you are visiting Baç Çınarlı Mosque for its historical and architectural significance rather than for worship, 15 to 30 minutes will be sufficient. Given the mosque's proximity to the city center, it is a sensible option to combine it with other historical and cultural sites in Izmit for a half-day city tour.
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