Selimiye Mosque, located in the center of Konya near the Mevlana Museum, is an important example of classical Ottoman architecture built in the 16th century during the reigns of Suleiman the Magnificent and Selim II; it stands out with its central dome and twin minarets, and can be visited free of charge.
Rising in the center of Konya, right next to the Mevlana Dervish Lodge, Selimiye Mosque is considered one of the most robust examples of classical Ottoman mosque architecture in Anatolia. The structure shows similarities in its plan scheme to the old Fatih Mosque in Istanbul; with its central dome resting on a nearly square rectangular base, it offers a spacious and airy prayer area inside. Built with cut stone material, the mosque has become an integral part of Konya's religious and urban fabric since the second half of the 16th century.
The mosque was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and Selim II and was designed as a complex (külliye); along with its imaret (soup kitchen), it also served the social structure of its time. Although the vast majority of Mevlana Museum visitors pass directly in front of the mosque, the structure often remains overlooked, not receiving the attention it deserves. However, when viewed from the inside, its simple yet balanced Ottoman architecture, ornamentation, and acoustics offer visitors a truly impressive experience.
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Guide's Note
Located right next to the Mevlana Tomb, Sultan Selim Mosque makes a significant contribution to Konya's historical fabric with its 16th-century Ottoman architecture. Visitors appreciate the elegant dome and overall silhouette of the structure; its location in the same area as the Mevlana Museum naturally includes it in the itinerary of those visiting the region.
Many comments, including short notes from foreign visitors, speak positively of the building's exterior appearance. However, a significant portion of recent comments points out that the interior of the mosque is closed to visitors.
- Renovation process: Multiple visitors report that the mosque is closed for renovation and they could not enter. It is recommended to check the current status before planning your visit.
- Landscaping: It is stated that during the closed period, the surroundings of the building are enclosed with panels; this also restricts close viewing of the exterior facade.
About Selimiye Mosque
Selimiye Mosque is one of the structures in Konya that most simply reflects the architectural understanding of the classical Ottoman period. Construction, which began in the mid-16th century during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, was completed during the time of Selim II. Over time, the mosque was also given the name Sultan Selim Mosque. Its proximity to the Mevlana Dervish Lodge has given the structure special importance throughout history; according to sources, some needs of the dervish lodge were met through this complex.
The plan scheme of the structure resembles the grand imperial mosques of Istanbul from that period. This arrangement, where the central dome is supported by semi-domes and buttresses, creates a spacious prayer area free from column obstructions in the interior. The exterior facade, where cut stone is skillfully used, presents a simple yet powerful appearance.
When to Visit?
Considering that Konya's summers are quite hot, visiting the mosque in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) is much more enjoyable. In winter months, the city calms down; during this period, the crowds around the Mevlana Museum also decrease, making it possible to visit the mosque in a quieter environment.
The most suitable time during the day is the period between morning prayer and noon prayer. During these hours, you can comfortably examine the interior in terms of both light and tranquility. Since the congregation density will increase during Friday prayers and on special religious days, it is better to prefer after prayer rather than planning a visit during those hours.
How to Get There?
Selimiye Mosque is located in one of the most central points of Konya. You can reach the mosque within 2-3 minutes on foot by getting off at the Mevlana stop on the Konya Tram Line. The tram operates at regular intervals from Konya Train Station and different districts of the city.
Access by city buses is also possible; the vast majority of lines going to the Mevlana Museum pass in front of the mosque. For those coming by car, there are paid and free parking areas in the vicinity, but finding parking can be difficult, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Taxi or car rental options also offer a practical alternative.
Photo Spots
The exterior facade of the mosque offers beautiful photographs, especially during sunrise and sunset, with the warm tones of the cut stone. For an angle where the twin minarets and the central dome are seen together, the street opposite the mosque provides a perfectly natural frame.
Inside, standing directly under the dome and looking up allows you to achieve a symmetrical and deep composition. Photography is allowed inside outside of prayer times; however, it is important to respect the privacy of those praying. The exterior view framed with the Mevlana Museum is one of the rare angles that summarizes Konya's historical fabric in a single shot.
What to Eat Nearby?
Selimiye Mosque is located in the heart of Konya's richest gastronomic region. In the streets and avenues around the Mevlana Museum, there are many well-established restaurants serving fırın kebabı, a symbol of Konya cuisine. Etli ekmek (meat bread) and tirit (a dish with bread, meat, and yogurt) are also among the local delicacies you can easily find in this area.
If you are looking for something lighter, nearby patisseries and tea gardens are ideal for a break. Especially the small artisan restaurants on Mevlana Street offer both affordable and delicious options. You can also find Konya-specific simit (sesame bread rings) and poğaça (savory pastries) fresh from street bakeries during morning visits.
Suggested Itinerary: Mevlana Area Walk
Visiting Selimiye Mosque not alone, but together with the surrounding historical fabric, makes the visit much more meaningful. The suggested itinerary can be structured as follows: Start with Selimiye Mosque early in the morning, then visit the adjacent Mevlana Museum. After exiting the museum, walk towards Alaaddin Hill to explore the Alaaddin Mosque and the surrounding Seljuk heritage.
For lunch, you can choose one of the well-established restaurants on Mevlana Street. In the afternoon, the route can be completed with the Karatay Madrasa and the Ince Minareli Madrasa. This route can be completed in approximately half a day to a full day; walking distances are quite reasonable.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Since Selimiye Mosque is an active place of worship, certain rules must be followed during your visit. It is mandatory to take off your shoes when entering the mosque; shoe bags are not provided inside, so it might be practical to carry a small cloth bag in your purse. Female visitors are expected to cover their heads; scarves can usually be provided at the entrance, but bringing your own is healthier.
During prayer times, visitor entry is restricted or completely stopped. It is advisable to check the prayer times in advance and plan your visit accordingly. Avoiding loud conversations and flash photography inside the mosque will be a respectful behavior for both the congregation and other visitors.
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