Efirli Mosque and Cemetery is a 150-year-old stone and wood mosque located on the coast of Efirli Village in Perşembe district of Ordu, featuring a single-balconied minaret, original mihrab, and an surrounding cemetery.
Efirli Mosque is located on the coastal part of Efirli Village, which is part of Ordu's Perşembe district. According to its inscription, it has a history of approximately 150 years. Some sources state that the village's old mosque tradition dates back much further, to the 1230s, but the date on the inscription is the reference for the structure standing today. With its single-balconied minaret, it has the appearance of a simple Black Sea village mosque, but its mihrab and inner door have preserved their original state.
The structure was built with stone and wood using a masonry system, reflecting the traditional building technique of the region. The cemetery in the mosque courtyard is a research topic in itself: in an academic study conducted in the region, the history of most of the tombstones could be determined, while the names of some of the deceased could not be reached. This shows that the structure serves not only as a place of worship but also as a document for local history.
Its location on the coast, accessible by asphalt road, makes visiting easy. Thanks to its proximity to Perşembe center, it can be added to the itinerary as a short stop along with other attractions in the region.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Since Efirli Mosque is on the coast, the rainy and windy weather typical of the Black Sea in winter months can make visiting difficult. The period from late spring to early autumn is more comfortable for both the road route and exploring the village surroundings. Since the mosque is open during prayer times, a visit coinciding with these hours increases the chance to see the interior.
How to Get There
Efirli Village is reached by asphalt road from Ordu city center towards Perşembe, a distance of approximately 6 kilometers. Going by your own car is the most practical option. For public transport connections, you need to inquire about minibus services from Perşembe bus station to the village. Since the village is on the coast, the road follows a route with sea views.
How Much Time to Allocate
Since the mosque is a small-scale village structure, the visit does not take long. 20-30 minutes is sufficient to examine the mihrab, inner door, and minaret, and then to look at the cemetery in the courtyard. When visited along with other stops in Perşembe, the rest of the day can be allocated to Perşembe Plateau or other points along the coastline.
Suggested Itinerary
It makes sense to add Efirli Mosque as a short stop on the way from Ordu to Perşembe. After visiting Perşembe center, you can turn towards the coast to visit the mosque, and on the way back, continue to Perşembe Plateau or other villages along the coastline. It should be considered as part of a regional trip rather than forming a full-day itinerary on its own.
Photo Opportunities
The exterior of the mosque and its single-balconied minaret, with the coastal background, make for a good shot. Inside, the original mihrab and door details can be photographed when the light is suitable. However, it may not always be possible to enter outside of prayer times. The tombstones in the courtyard, with their old inscriptions and carvings, are also a separate subject for those interested in photography.
Things to Pay Attention To
Since the structure is still an active place of worship, it is necessary to behave appropriately according to mosque etiquette during the visit. It is useful for women to have a headscarf. The cemetery area is a place of historical value; it is appropriate to examine the tombstones from a respectful distance without touching them. Since the village road can be narrow, careful driving is recommended when going by car.
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