The 200-year-old Mosque-i Kebir and its unique minaret, located in the Maden district of Elazığ, Türkiye, are prime candidates for restoration and tourism development.
The Mosque-i Kebir, an important Ottoman architectural structure, continues to serve the local community in Maden. Its 8-cornered minaret, which reflects the architectural style of the 19th century, is a notable feature that adds to the mosque’s historical value.
Süleyman Deniz Seyrek, President of the Bakır Maden Culture, Tourism, Development and Solidarity Association, highlighted the mosque’s significance: “Mosque-i Kebir, meaning the grand mosque of the district, is a key Ottoman structure from the 19th century, similar to the Maden Government Mansion and Clock Tower. Historical records indicate that the Clock Tower and the mosque’s minaret were inaugurated on the same day in 1902. The minaret, built with contributions from the local citizens and the governor of the period, is what truly makes this mosque special.”
Currently serving the district’s residents, Mosque-i Kebir and its minaret are poised for restoration to open up for tourism, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich Ottoman heritage of the region.
Hüseyin Kabukçu