The Uc Serefeli Mosque, also known as the Three Minaret Balconied Mosque, was built between 1437 and 1447 at the request of Sultan Murat II, a scholar and poet. Uc Serefeli Cami was designed by the famous architects Muslihiddin and Sahabettin Usta and is considered a significant structure in Edirne due to its transition from Early Period Architecture to Classic Era Style or from Seljuk to Ottoman style.
The mosque has served as a source of inspiration for many architects and artists, particularly the great architect Sinan. It has been a pioneer in the fields of art and literature and continues to influence contemporary innovations.
ARCHITECTURE
The Classical center-planned mosque was replaced by the Saatli Madrasah, an educational institution, the Tashan and Sokullu Turkish bath, and the Peykler Madrasah in the southern part.
The Three Minaret Balconied Mosque is one of the first examples of the Ottoman architectural style. It is unique in Islamic history as it features a charming rectangular sadirvan (water-tank with a fountain) in the center of the mosque’s courtyard. The courtyard is surrounded by 22 beautiful porches and has three doors, each facing a different direction. The door in the west is more elaborate as it is directly connected to the city.
The mosque also boasts four minarets of varying sizes, covering an area of 66.50 m x 64.50 m. The main minaret is 81 m tall and has three balconies accessible by three separate ways. The second minaret, with a lozenge shape, has two balconies and two access roads. The third minaret, located at the back of the courtyard, has one balcony. Due to its grooved and wreathed design, the magnificent mosque is also known as the Burmane (burmalı in Turkish) Mosque.
After the construction of the mosque, the style shifted from multiple domes to a single central dome. The large dome, which has a diameter of 24 m, is located at the center of the mosque and is supported by six elegant pillars adorned with Islamic calligraphy and porches. The mosque contains a total of 9 domes.
In addition to these features, there is also a middle door known as the Cümle Door, which visitors use to enter the mosque after passing through the sadirvan. The crown gate overlooking the courtyard with porches is decorated with marble details such as muqarnas (stalactites), convoluted branch motifs, and Rumi figures in relief. The mosque has four stunning doors, each leading to a different mystical world.
Next to the mosque, there is a graveyard containing approximately 195 tombs belonging to governors, pashas, professors, muftis, officers, kadis, and merchants from the period.
The mosque was damaged in a major earthquake in 1752, but it was rebuilt by the architect Hacı Ahmet under the orders of Ottoman Sultan Mustafa III in 1764.
According to the historian Evliya Çelebi, the fountain in the mosque was once a paradise of flowers, flowing with hot water in the winter. Today, it continues to captivate people with its multi-colored tulip-figured lamb.
LEGEND OF THE MOSQUE
There are two columns made of porphyry located at the entrance of the mosque. According to a legend, the two architects of the mosque had the same dream one night. The next day, they shared their dreams with each other and described the same image: an angel visiting the mosque and standing where the columns are today. Because of this, they decided to build the columns in this spot.
Visiting the Edirne Uc Serefeli Mosque is a must for all history, architecture, and culture enthusiasts. The mosque, built in the 15th century, is a testament to the cultural and architectural achievements of the Ottoman Empire. With its unique blend of styles, the mosque reflects a transition from the Early Period Architecture to the Classic Era Style. It was the source of inspiration for many architects and artists, including the great Sinan, and it has been a pioneer in the field of art and literature. The mosque’s courtyards, with their 22 fascinating porches, are particularly noteworthy, as they were some of the first to feature minarets with different sizes. The mosque’s main minaret, with its three balconies, is 81 meters tall and provides breathtaking views of Edirne. The mosque’s interior is equally impressive, with its central dome and calligraphy-decorated pillars.
Visitors can also explore the graveyard next to the mosque, which contains 195 tombs belonging to various dignitaries from the Ottoman era. The mosque’s location in the heart of Edirne makes it a convenient stop during a tour of the city. And for those who enjoy folklore, the legend of the two columns at the mosque’s entrance is an interesting tale to hear.
At Tour Maker Turkey, we believe that visiting the Edirne Uc Serefeli Mosque is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. That’s why we offer a range of tours to this iconic location. Whether you’re interested in Ottoman history, Ottoman architecture, or simply the beauty of the mosque itself, our tours are the perfect way to experience this magnificent building. With our knowledgeable guides, you’ll have the chance to learn about the mosque’s history and architecture in depth, and you’ll also have the chance to explore the mosque at your own pace. So why wait? Book a tour with Tour Maker Turkey today and experience the beauty and history of the Edirne Uc Serefeli Mosque for yourself!