Merkez Efendi Dar al-Qurra
Changes After Construction:
- After its function as a Dar al-Qurra, the structure was used as a primary school and as a storage facility; in the 1970s, it acquired the function of a children’s library.
- With the support of the Istanbul Governorship, Zeytinburnu Municipality restored the structure in 2007; today, it is used under the name Nağmedar for musical training/practice.
Prominent Features:
- The structure is also known as the Abdülbaki Pasha Library and Nağmedar.
- It has a square plan and a single-domed composition; it reflects the classical Ottoman style.
- Cut küfeki stone was used in the wall masonry; a marble jamb arrangement is seen in the doors and windows.
- Above the windows are pointed-arched upper windows with plaster grilles; the transition to the dome is provided by tromps.
- The verse panel above the entrance contains a date record; this date has been read in the sources as Hijri 1027 (1618).
