Koprulu Mehmet Pasha Mosque is a single-minaret Ottoman mosque located near Taşhan in Hekimhan, Malatya, built in 1661 by Grand Vizier Fazıl Ahmet Pasha. It is a historically preserved structure with a five-domed last prayer section and a simple mihrab.
Koprulu Mehmet Pasha Mosque stands in the Hekimhan district of Malatya, approximately 50 meters southeast of the historic Taşhan. According to its inscription, its construction dates back to 1661; the mosque's patron was actually Grand Vizier Koprulu Fazıl Ahmet Pasha. The inscription in ta'liq script above the entrance gate clearly states this. There is also a record of repair: a second inscription dating to 1815 is on the wall where the ablution taps are located, opposite the last prayer section.
The structure has a single minaret, built of cut stone. The minaret rises adjacent to the western wall. The last prayer section is porticoed; five small domes cover this area, and pointed arches rest on round marble columns. Upon entering, you are greeted by the main rectangular-plan space. The large central dome is expanded on both sides by barrel vaults, rising on an octagonal drum. The mihrab, however, is quite simple, with no ornamentation on it. The structure was restored by the Regional Directorate of Foundations based on Conservation Board decisions dated 1989 and 1992.
A prominent point in visitor comments is that the mosque is a small but historically preserved structure. It is mentioned as a must-see stop along with its location and surroundings. Those who visit Hekimhan usually tour it with Taşhan and complete it in a short time.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Hekimhan can be quite hot in summer and cold and snowy in winter. If you plan to visit the mosque and the surrounding Taşhan on foot, spring or autumn months are a more comfortable choice. Be careful not to coincide with prayer times, as your visit may be interrupted during those hours.
How to Get There
From Malatya city center, Hekimhan is about an hour's drive by road. Once you reach the district, the mosque is in Fatih Mahallesi and very close to Taşhan. It is possible to reach it by public transport within the city or on foot if it is close to the center.
Exploring Hekimhan
The distance between the mosque and Taşhan is only about 50 meters, so they are naturally included in the same sightseeing stop. Since Hekimhan center is small, walking around without using a car is sufficient.
How Much Time to Allocate
The mosque itself is not a large structure; visiting its interior and exterior takes 15-25 minutes. If you plan it with Taşhan, allocating a total of about an hour for the Hekimhan stop is sufficient.
Route Suggestion
If traveling from Malatya city center to Hekimhan, it is logical to visit Taşhan first and then walk 50 meters to the mosque. It can also be included in a one-day Hekimhan tour with other historical structures in the district.
Good Spots for Photos
The porticoed arches and marble columns of the last prayer section offer a good frame for exterior shots. The ta'liq script inscription above the entrance gate can also be seen in detail with a close-up shot.
Things to Pay Attention To
As it is an active place of worship, postpone your visit during prayer times. When entering the mosque, it is sufficient to dress modestly and behave respectfully; no special restrictions have been reported.
FAQ
Updated:
