Ferah Baba Tomb

Audio Narration:

Person in the Tomb:

Ferah Baba

Location of the Tomb:

Eyüpsultan, İstanbul

Title:

Nimel Ceyş, Chief Bladesmith

Birth / Death:

Unknown – 1453

About the Person:
  • Known also as Ferruh Dede, Ferah Baba was a soldier in the army of Mehmed the Conqueror. His real name was Ferhad.
  • Due to his occupation in bladesmithing during the conquest, he became widely known as “Bıçakçı Baba” (Father of Blades).
  • According to tradition, he was martyred during the conquest of Constantinople and was buried at his current resting place.
  • Ferah Baba is said to have been a pirdaş (spiritual brother) of Akşemseddin, the teacher of Mehmed the Conqueror, and the brother of Şeyhoğlu Edhem Baba.
  • He remains a revered figure among the people.
About the Tomb:

Construction Year: 15th century

Ordered by: The People

Architect: Unknown

Prominent Features:

  • The structure sits slightly above street level, with a simple wooden-clad front façade and windows.
  • The interior is modest; the sarcophagus is made of white marble and covered with a green cloth.
  • The space is arranged with carpets and cushions to accommodate visitors making prayers.
  • There is no inscription on the grave.
  • The tomb is surrounded by a few cypress trees and a small garden.
  • A nearby mescit (prayer hall) was later added but was destroyed in the 19th century.