The Selahaddin Eyyubi Mosque is a structure located on Vali Fuat Bey Street in Şanlıurfa, standing on the site of the Church of John the Baptist, built by Bishop Nona in 457 AD; it was later converted into a mosque and restored in 2010-2011.
The Selahaddin Eyyubi Mosque, one of the many layered structures embedded in the historical fabric of Şanlıurfa, was actually built on the site of the Saint John the Baptist Prodromos Addai Church, constructed by Bishop Nona in 457 AD. Dedicated to John the Baptist, this church was also referred to as a cathedral due to its status as the largest religious building in the region at the time. During the period when the structure was used as a church, the iwan on the ground floor adjacent to the east of the two-story building in the northern courtyard was reorganized as a place for ablution during its conversion into a mosque. This single detail alone reveals how comprehensive a transformation the structure underwent.
After its conversion into a mosque, the structure, named Selahaddin Eyyubi, underwent extensive restoration in 2010-2011. Today, the building, which is open for worship as an active mosque, is one of Şanlıurfa's most fascinating historical sites, as it houses traces of Apostolic and Armenian Christian heritage alongside Islamic architecture. For those who wish to understand the ancient history of the city, this structure is far more than an ordinary place of worship; it serves as a living document embodying Mesopotamia's interfaith permeability.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Şanlıurfa, Historical Sites, Şanlıurfa historical sites, Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum.
Guide's Note
Located in Şanlıurfa's historic Armenian Quarter, just above Balıklıgöl, this structure stands out as one of the city's most ancient religious sites. It is estimated to have been rebuilt in the early 19th century on the foundations of the Church of John the Baptist, which was constructed by Bishop Nona in 457 AD. Referred to as a cathedral due to its status as the largest church in the region at the time, the building remained in ruins for many years; it was even used as a power plant for a period. It was restored and opened for worship as a mosque in 1993, with renovation work continuing in subsequent years.
Visitors state that they are impressed by the size of the structure and the traces of its church heritage. The half-columns on the edges of the windows and the intertwined dragon reliefs are among the details that carry the original texture of the church to the present day. The last congregation area was arranged by utilizing the narthex of the former church; the structure was prepared for worship with a flat roof, without a dome. It is emphasized that with its historical layers and architectural features, it is an interesting stop for those visiting Urfa.
However, there are some practical points to consider before your visit:
- Transportation: The structure is located in an old neighborhood, away from main transportation routes, making it difficult to find; it is stated that even a large portion of the local population is unaware of its location.
- Landscaping: The school building in front and the surrounding construction make it difficult to fully perceive the large structure resembling a cathedral from the outside.
- Restoration process: The structure has undergone multiple renovation phases recently; as of early 2026, the renovation has been completed, but it is reported that it has not yet been opened for worship. It is recommended to confirm the current status before planning your visit.
- Congregation density: Due to its conversion from a church and the thinning of the neighborhood's fabric, it is stated that the place remains quite calm outside of prayer times.
History of the Structure: A Journey from Church to Mosque
The Saint John the Baptist Prodromos Addai Church, built by Bishop Nona in 457 AD, was the largest religious building in the region at the time of its construction. Dedicated to John the Baptist, this structure was recognized as a cathedral due to its size and importance. Over centuries, the church passed through the hands of different communities in parallel with political and religious power changes in the region; it was eventually converted into a mosque.
The architectural interventions made during the conversion of the structure into a mosque are still visible today. The transformation of the iwan on the ground floor, adjacent to the two-story building in the northern courtyard, into an ablution area is one of the most concrete pieces of evidence of this process. Restoration work carried out in 2010-2011 kept the structure standing; today, it continues to be open for worship as an active mosque.
When to Visit?
Şanlıurfa becomes one of Turkey's hottest cities in summer; temperatures easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius, especially in July and August. For visiting the structure and its surrounding historical sites, April-May and September-October offer a much more comfortable experience. Winter months are a good option for those seeking a cool and calm atmosphere; crowds also significantly decrease during this period.
In terms of time of day, early mornings or late afternoons are more suitable for both lighting conditions and protection from the heat. Since entry to the structure may be restricted during crowded prayer times, such as Friday prayers, it is recommended to plan your visit between prayer times.
How to Get There?
The structure is located right in the center of Şanlıurfa city, on Vali Fuat Bey Street (also known as Yeniyol or Büyükyol). After reaching the city center from Şanlıurfa Airport by taxi or airport shuttles, you can walk to the mosque or take a short taxi ride.
City minibus lines pass along the Vali Fuat Bey Street route. Since it is within walking distance of other important historical points such as Balıklıgöl, Ulu Cami, and Şanlıurfa Castle, you can easily include this structure in your historical tour route in the city center.
Şanlıurfa Historic Center Route Suggestion
You can create an efficient walking route by combining the Selahaddin Eyyubi Mosque with other structures in Şanlıurfa's historic center. Start early in the morning with Balıklıgöl, visit the cave believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Abraham, then proceed to Ulu Cami. From there, you can walk along Vali Fuat Bey Street to reach the Selahaddin Eyyubi Mosque.
In the afternoon, you can climb Şanlıurfa Castle to enjoy panoramic views of the city, then shop at Gümrük Hanı and the Covered Bazaar. All these places are within walking distance of each other, making it possible to do a complete historic center tour without using a car.
Photo Spots
For external photos of the structure, the facade view from Vali Fuat Bey Street is a good starting point. In the morning, sunlight highlights the stone texture of the building, creating a powerful atmosphere. Inside, it is possible to photograph the architectural traces of the conversion from church to mosque in detail, especially the historic iwan area.
When taking photos, remember that you are in an active place of worship; avoid photographing people praying and ask for permission if necessary. A wide-angle lens is very useful for capturing the entirety of the interior.
What to Eat Nearby?
Şanlıurfa is one of the cities with the richest cuisines in Turkey; there are many options around the structure to experience this cuisine. Çiğ köfte, lahmacun, katmer, and Urfa kebab are among the city's iconic flavors. You can easily find local restaurants and kebab shops on Vali Fuat Bey Street and the surrounding streets.
Drinking mırra in the coffee houses around Gümrük Hanı is also an integral part of the city's cultural experience. Be sure to try this intense, bitter coffee unique to Urfa. For lunch, the artisan restaurants around the Covered Bazaar offer both affordable and authentic options.
Things to Know Before Visiting
As the structure is an active mosque, certain rules must be observed during your visit. It is mandatory to remove your shoes when entering; female visitors are expected to cover their heads. Entering with short pants or sleeveless clothing is not considered appropriate, so it would be practical to carry a scarf with you.
During prayer times, especially Friday prayers, entry to the structure may not be possible. Planning your visit outside these times is a matter of respect for both you and those praying. Due to the structure's history as both a church and a mosque, a quiet and respectful demeanor is expected inside.
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