Sivas Grand Mosque

The mosque was built by Kızılarslan Bin İbrahim for Kul Ahi in 1196-1197 during the Anatolian Seljuk State period. In 1212, İzzeddin Keykavus carried out repairs, and then in 1213, the famous minaret that defines the mosque today was built: a brick-built structure with an octagonal base that has leaned over time. Its status as one of the dome-less, flat-roofed mosque examples in Anatolia makes it architecturally distinct.

In the 11-aisle interior, 50 masonry columns are connected by pointed arches. The ceiling is flat as it was built before the dome concept became widespread. The mihrab, uncovered during the 1955 restoration, stands out with geometric interweaving patterns formed by the arms of two concentric octagons, topped by seven rows of muqarnas. The best photo angle from the outside is the street side where the leaning minaret is clearly visible. Afternoon light makes the brick texture more prominent.

The mosque has been closed for both worship and visits due to restoration work that began in 2025. Recent comments indicate that many visitors were turned away at the door, with some only able to visit the graves in the hazire and pray on certain days. One visitor mentioned that the leaning minaret can still be seen from outside and that they are waiting for the restoration to be completed. You need to call the Sivas Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism to inquire about the current status before visiting.

The mosque is located in Sivas city center, on Fevzi Çakmak Street, in Uluanak Mahallesi. It takes approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Sivas bus station or train station. If you are staying in the city center, you can also reach it on foot; other historical structures of Sivas are also located nearby.

The area where the Grand Mosque is located is an area where Seljuk period works of Sivas are concentrated. The Çifte Minareli Medrese (Double Minaret Madrasah) and other historical madrasahs of the city are within a short walking distance. Even when the mosque is closed, visiting this area to see the Seljuk period stonework is a meaningful alternative.

Before restoration, visiting the mosque took 30-45 minutes. In the current situation, 15-20 minutes is sufficient to see the exterior and take photos. If you are not coming to Sivas specifically for this mosque, you can include it in a half-day trip plan along with other historical structures in the city center.