Behzad-ı Veli Mosque is an Ottoman mosque built in 1536 by Hoca Behzat of Shirvan, located in Tokat city center by the Behzat Stream. With its founder's tomb and inscriptions, it is one of the city's oldest religious structures.
Behzad-ı Veli Mosque stands on the banks of the Behzat Stream in the city center of Tokat. It was built in the Hijri year 942, corresponding to 1535-1536 AD, by Hoca Behzat of Shirvan (Hacı Behzad-ı Veli). He is the founder of the mosque; his tomb is located on the qibla side of the mosque, which is typically the rear section. The structure stands on Behzat Boulevard, which it is named after, within the historical fabric of the city.
The mosque did not achieve its current form in a single construction. The initial structure was built with a single dome and a portico (son cemaat yeri) with three domes. During the reign of Abdülhamid II, the public expanded the mosque to its present state. During this expansion, the northern wall between the domed section and the vaulted section was demolished and transformed into a wide arched opening, and the minaret was likely added during that period. A careful look at the wall masonry and brick window arches still reveals the difference between the two distinct construction periods. The first inscription was moved above the plain new door to the north of the baroque-decorated vaulted area.
A flood in 1908 partially damaged the western wall of the mosque, after which it was repaired by Ahmet Lütfi Pasha of Tokat. According to photographs taken in the 1950s, a new portico was built using the marble columns of the original portico, its roof was kept flat, and the elevated gallery (fevkani mahfil) inside was extended into this area. Thus, the mosque you see today is a structure that has grown layer by layer over five centuries.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Tokat historical places, Komana Ancient City.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
The mosque can be visited in all seasons, but its surroundings by the stream are more enjoyable in spring and autumn. Since prayer times have priority for worship, it is more appropriate for both your comfort and the congregation's if you visit outside those hours. In summer, you can avoid the midday heat and prefer morning or late afternoon hours.
How to Get There
The mosque is located on Behzat Boulevard in Tokat city center. It is close to the intercity bus terminal; you can easily reach it by city minibuses and taxis. It is also close enough to walk to other historical structures in the center, such as the Clock Tower and the Mevlevihane.
Other Stops in the Vicinity
The area where Behzad-ı Veli Mosque is located is considered the historical center of Tokat. Nearby are the Clock Tower and the Mevlevihane, both within walking distance. You can take a short walk along the Behzat Stream to see the old texture of the city.
How Much Time to Allocate
Visiting the mosque itself takes 20-30 minutes. Those who want to carefully examine the inscriptions, the differences in the wall masonry, and the tomb might stay a bit longer. If you plan it together with the nearby Clock Tower and Mevlevihane, it makes for a half-day historical walking route.
Things to Note When Visiting
The mosque is still actively used for worship, so it is necessary to be respectful during prayer times. Remember to remove your shoes when entering and to remain silent. It is advisable for female visitors to carry a headscarf.
Good Spots for Photography
The arched opening on the northern facade and the dome-vault transition are the most striking points showing architectural differences. The tomb in the courtyard and the inscriptions are also suitable for detailed photos. Shots taken from the exterior, from the direction of the Behzat Stream, better reflect the mosque's location.
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