Old Mosque

The Old Mosque, located in Tekirdağ's Ertuğrul Neighborhood, is one of the city's oldest documented places of worship. After the original structure completely burned down, it was faithfully rebuilt in 1830 by Zahire Nazırı Ahmet Ağa. The rectangular-planned structure with a flat wooden roof carries the simple architectural understanding of the Ottoman period to the present day with its round-arched windows, hexagonal mihrab, and unique wooden sermon pulpit. The minaret was repaired in 1912, and the structure was reorganized during the Republican era.

Tekirdağ's mild spring and autumn months are the most suitable periods for exploring the city center on foot. To comfortably explore the Old Mosque's interior, it's a good idea to choose times between prayer hours; especially during Friday prayer times, the mosque and its surroundings can be crowded. Keep in mind that the mosque is also heavily used in the evenings during Ramadan due to Tarawih prayers.

The Old Mosque is located in the center of Tekirdağ's Süleymanpaşa district, on Hükümet Street. It can be easily found on foot after reaching the city center. Those coming from Istanbul can use the E80 highway or the coastal road; within the city, dolmuşes and minibuses serve the Süleymanpaşa center. Parking options are limited in the immediate vicinity, so those arriving by car are advised to park a little further away and walk.

The Old Mosque is a natural stop on a short walking route covering Tekirdağ's historical center. Since it is located on the same route as the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, it is possible to see both structures on the same tour. A walk from here to the Tekirdağ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, and then to the coastline, allows you to see both the historical and natural beauties of the city in one go. The entire route fits into approximately a half-day program.

The round-arched windows and cut stone masonry on the mosque's exterior facade offer beautiful shots in daylight. Inside, the hexagonal mihrab and wooden sermon pulpit are also striking details. Avoid taking photos inside during prayer times; there are no restrictions for exterior and courtyard shots.

The Old Mosque is an actively used place of worship. During your visit, shoulders and knees must be covered; a headscarf is required for female visitors. Be sure to remain silent inside during prayer times. Also, keep in mind that you need to remove your shoes at the mosque entrance. Confirm visiting hours with an official source before you go.

On Hükümet Street and the surrounding streets, you'll find Tekirdağ's unique meatball stops, pastry shops, and coffee houses. Tekirdağ meatballs are the city's most famous delicacy and can be found in many restaurants in the center. As you walk towards the coastline, fish restaurants also become an option.