Visiting the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne had long been on my list of meaningful cultural journeys, not only because it represents one of the crowning achievements of Ottoman architecture, but also because it stands as a monument to the vision and mastery of Mimar Sinan. When I finally had the chance to travel to Edirne and walk toward this monumental structure, I felt a quiet sense of anticipation, as if I was approaching one of the timeless architectural statements of the past. What I did not expect, however, was that during my visit the mosque would be undergoing restoration, and many sections would be closed off for preservation work. Despite this, the experience remained deeply memorable perhaps even more so because I saw the mosque in a moment of care and renewal, rather than simply as a completed, pristine museum piece.
The first impression of Selimiye Mosque always begins from afar. Approaching the center of Edirne, the mosque’s four slender minarets command the skyline with graceful authority. They rise sharply into the sky, their symmetry and height giving the sense that the structure beneath them must be equally extraordinary. Even before entering the courtyard, I found myself pausing several times just to admire how the mosque dominates the city without overwhelming it. The surrounding streets, Turkish coffee shops, Ottoman-era houses, small local markets, and green spaces frame the structure like a historical stage. The air itself feels different historical, contemplative, and almost ceremonial.
As I walked closer, the famous large dome of Selimiye became the defining visual anchor. It is not just large it is harmoniously proportioned, almost like a hemisphere designed to represent the unity of heaven and earth. Mimar Sinan himself considered Selimiye his masterpiece, and standing there, I finally understood why. The way the dome rests on its elegant support system, floating above the main prayer hall, reveals an architectural intelligence far ahead of its time.
When I entered through the courtyard, I immediately noticed signs of renovation. Scaffolding lined portions of the walls, and certain doorways were blocked off. In a way, this reminded me that even the most enduring structures need care, and that the mosque has lived through centuries of history earthquakes, wars, the passage of millions of visitors yet continues to stand with dignity. The sound of distant tools and quiet footsteps of workers echoed softly in the background, blending unintentionally with the serene atmosphere.
Though many areas were inaccessible, the parts that remained open still carried the soul of Selimiye. The courtyard itself was a harmony of stone and sunlight. The marble fountain at the center, once used for ablution before prayer, reflected the sky in its still water. The colonnades around the courtyard created rhythmic shadows across the floor, giving the entire space a calm, monastic feeling.
Inside the prayer hall, the restoration work had temporarily removed some of the usual grandeur, but even so, the architectural brilliance remained impossible to hide. The central dome one of the largest of its era felt immense above my head, yet not heavy. Sinan had designed it in a way that the supporting pillars are pushed outward, hidden within the walls, leaving the interior feeling open, unified, and almost weightless. Even with scaffolding partially obscuring sections of the calligraphy and tilework, I could still sense the intention of the original design: to inspire awe while maintaining spiritual simplicity.
The İznik tiles, though partly covered for protection, still shone with their deep blues and intricate floral patterns. The mihrab, illuminated even in the subdued lighting caused by restoration work, glowed softly. Its carved details retained their elegance, reminding me how much artistry had been poured into every inch of this mosque. Though I could not walk freely through the interior as I had hoped, the limited view I had was enough to evoke the spiritual brilliance that defines Selimiye.
One of the most striking aspects of the mosque even during renovation was its acoustics. I spoke quietly, and my voice carried gently through the open hall. It struck me that Sinan had not only built a structure of stone and tile but had shaped the air inside it. He had crafted silence itself into something meaningful.
Stepping back outside, I took time to explore the surrounding areas. The mosque is seated on a gentle elevation, giving visitors a panoramic view of part of Edirne. From the gardens around the structure, I could see the tops of nearby historic buildings, the soft flow of city life, and the distant horizon lined with trees. The gardens were peaceful and well-maintained, with benches, walking paths, and patches of bright flowers. Families strolled by, children played on the grass, and elderly locals engaged in slow, leisurely conversations.
What fascinated me was how Selimiye Mosque interacts with its environment. It does not stand isolated from life; instead, it becomes the heart of the city’s rhythm. Birds flew around the minarets, landing occasionally on their stone ledges. The call to prayer, though momentarily altered due to renovation acoustics, still carried a profound resonance across the neighborhood. Even the vendors selling simit nearby seemed to be part of the atmosphere.
Beyond the immediate courtyard, I wandered through the streets filled with small artisan shops, souvenir stores, and bakeries offering almond cookies and traditional Edirne liver dishes. These everyday sights contrasted beautifully with the monumental presence of Selimiye. It reminded me that the mosque is not only a historical treasure but also a living part of the community, shaping daily routines, cultural identity, and the city’s character.
Reflecting on my visit, I realized something unexpected: seeing Selimiye Mosque during renovation gave me a deeper appreciation for it. Instead of only its polished beauty, I witnessed the ongoing effort to preserve something precious. I saw the dedication required to ensure that future generations can continue to stand beneath its dome, walk through its courtyard, and feel the same sense of wonder I felt. The scaffolding, rather than diminishing the experience, made the mosque feel alive evolving, cared for, and valued.
As I left the area, I took one last look at the silhouette of the mosque. The sun was beginning to set, painting the sky with soft oranges and purples. The minarets stood tall against the fading light, like symbolic guardians of cultural memory. Even with much of its interior hidden during my visit, Selimiye Mosque had left a vivid and lasting impression on me an impression rooted not only in its architectural magnificence but also in its humanity, its resilience, and its timeless grace.
I've published my post about the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne. I'd like to thank everyone who read and messaged. I'd like to thank #Hive and #Ecency for providing us with the opportunity to share. The most important thanks goes to #Worldmappin, who created this page for us.
All photos were taken by me.
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