Arap Hekim Mosque

Audio Narration

Construction Year

Before the 16th century

Location

Sancaktepe, İstanbul

Ordered by

Arap Hekim (A physician who came from the Arab lands to Skopje andestablished relations with Emir Isa Bey, later settled in Istanbul and became a palacephysician).

Architects

Unknown

Changes after its construction
  • The original structure of the mosque may have undergone restorations andrepairs over time.
  • According to foundation records, additional foundations were established to meetthe needs of the mosque.
  • In the modern period, due to environmental developments (urbanization,population growth), the courtyard or service areas of the mosque have beenexpanded.
  • The date 1900 on the mosque’s sign probably refers to the date of restoration orreconstruction.
Prominent features
  • The mosque, built by Arap Hekim, is one of the important examples of Ottomanperiod Islamic architecture in the Samandıra region.
  • According to historical records, the mosque was supported by a cash foundation.This foundation was established to cover the salaries of the imam and themuezzin. The foundation contains 48 official documents recorded under thenames of Arap Hekim Foundation", "Arab Hâce Foundation" and "SamandıraMosque Foundation.
  • The mosque is an important part of the historical and cultural heritage ofSamandıra.
  • Its mihrab has the aesthetics of Iznik tiles. Its minbar is made of wood. Similarly,the preacher’s pulpit is also made of wood and is decorated with star patterns.