Habib-i Neccar Mosque Antakya
Turkey's first mosque, built on ancient temple ruins, named after a revered figure from the Quran. A site of deep historical and spiritual significanc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Habib-i Neccar Mosque Antakya
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Turkey's first mosque, built on ancient temple ruins, named after a revered figure from the Quran. A site of deep historical and spiritual significance.
"A peaceful sanctuary with profound historical roots, considered the first mosque in Anatolia."
🧥 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf.
🙏 Respectful Silence
Maintain a quiet demeanor, especially during prayer times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tomb of Habib-i Neccar
Mosque Courtyard
Visit the resting place of Habib-i Neccar, a revered figure in Islamic and early Christian history.
Ancient Foundation
Mosque Structure
Marvel at the mosque built upon a Roman pagan temple, a testament to centuries of layered history.
+1
Ottoman Renovations
Mosque Interior
Admire the intricate details and domed ceiling added during Ottoman renovations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Understand Its Deep History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf.
🙏 Respectful Silence
Maintain a quiet demeanor, especially during prayer times.
🌳 Courtyard Oasis
Enjoy the peaceful courtyard, often featuring orange trees.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Finding parking nearby can be difficult. Consider walking or public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf.
🙏 Respectful Silence
Maintain a quiet demeanor, especially during prayer times.
🌳 Courtyard Oasis
Enjoy the peaceful courtyard, often featuring orange trees.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Finding parking nearby can be difficult. Consider walking or public transport.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Habib-i Neccar Mosque for its profound historical significance as the first mosque in Anatolia and its peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate its deep religious roots, mentioning the tomb of Habib-i Neccar and its Quranic connections. However, some note challenges with parking and the mosque's vulnerability to damage, as seen after recent earthquakes.
"The Habib-i Neccar Mosque was built in 638 when Antakya was taken over by the Muslim Arabs. It is considered to be the first mosque built within the borders of today's Türkiye. Located on Kurtuluş Street, the mosque was built by Hz. It is named after an Antakyalı who was the first to believe in Jesus' apostles and gave his life for this cause. This event is mentioned in the Quran in the Surah Yasin. According to the narration, in the 40s AD, When Jesus' disciples came to Antioch and tried to tell them that there is only one God, the first person to believe in them was a carpenter (neccar). Neccar gave up his pagan beliefs and joined them. However, the new preachings of the disciples angered the people. The king also has the apostles imprisoned. A new apostle, Şem'un Safa, is sent to Antioch. Şem'un convinces the king with his miracles and saves his friends. The people are determined not to believe in the apostles. They plan to stone them to death because they think they are bringing bad luck. Habib-i Neccar is killed while trying to stop the angry crowd. It is narrated that his severed head rolled from the top of Mount Habibi-i Neccar to where his tomb and grave are now located."
Ramil Khasanov
"Spent morning prayer here, very peacefull place. They planted orange tree in the terrace
The place is built to memorize Habib An-Najjar, the carpenter that mentioned in surah Ya-seen, that keep his faith although have to be killed. He then rewarded with paradise
You can also visit the tomb of Habib An-Najjar here. Such lovely place"
Felix Siauw
"Hz. In 33 AD, Jesus sent 2 apostles to the region of Antioch to spread Christianity. During the missionary work, the first Christian community in history and the Saint Pierre Church formed in Antiochia.
However, the majority of Antioch people react violently to the apostles. On top of that, Carpenter Habib - i Neccar, who first believed in the apostles, made suggestions to the people of Antioch and helped the apostles. 3. An apostle is also sent to the city to support the apostles.
However, all this is not enough to calm the people of Antioch, the apostles and Habib - i Neccar was killed by the people of Antioch.
In the Qur'an, these events are explained in verses 13 and 19 of Surah Yasin.
In this respect, the Habib - i Neccar Mosque was built in the 13th century during the period of Baybars, the Turkish Mameluke Sultan of Egypt and the region."
İsmail Önal Morcul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mosque is located on Kurtuluş Street in Antakya. Many visitors find it accessible by walking if staying in the city center. Public transport options are available, but parking can be challenging, so consider these alternatives.
Yes, it's a central landmark in Antakya. However, be prepared for potentially narrow streets and limited parking if arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the mosque is typically free, as it is a place of worship. Donations are often appreciated to help with upkeep.
While specific hours can vary, mosques are generally open outside of prayer times. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and be mindful of prayer schedules.
No, advance booking is not required for visiting the mosque. It's a public place of worship.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's considered the first mosque built in Anatolia, dating back to the 7th century, and is named after Habib-i Neccar, a figure revered in the Quran. It was built on the site of an ancient pagan temple. +1
Visitors should dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees. Women are expected to wear a headscarf, which can often be borrowed or brought along.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be respectful and avoid disrupting worshippers. Be mindful of any posted signs or requests from mosque officials.
Yes, the mosque complex includes the tomb of Habib-i Neccar in the courtyard and remnants of its historical structure, including Ottoman-era additions.
Visiting during morning prayer times or early afternoons can offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Antakya is known for its delicious cuisine. You'll find numerous local restaurants and eateries serving traditional Hatay dishes in the vicinity of the mosque.
Food and drink are generally not permitted inside the prayer hall or sacred areas of the mosque. There are often seating areas in the courtyard where you can rest.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard with the tomb, the intricate domed ceiling inside, and the mosque's facade offer great photographic opportunities. Capture the blend of historical architectural styles.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography. It's always a good idea to ask for permission if you plan to take close-up shots of people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The peaceful atmosphere of the courtyard might offer a nice break for families exploring the city. 🕌 Religious & History Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tapestry of Faiths: The History of Habib-i Neccar Mosque
+2The mosque is named after Habib-i Neccar, a carpenter from Antioch who is mentioned in the Quran's Surah Yasin. He is revered as one of the first to believe in Jesus' apostles and was martyred for his faith. This narrative connects the mosque to early Christian history in Antioch, a city that was a crucial center for the spread of Christianity.
Over centuries, the mosque has undergone several renovations, most notably during the Ottoman period, which added features like the elaborate domed ceiling and a minaret from the 1600s. The present structure reflects these various historical layers, making it a unique architectural and spiritual landmark.
The recent earthquake caused significant damage, highlighting its vulnerability and the importance of preservation efforts. +1Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips for Tourists
This ensures respect for the religious site and its worshippers. While the mosque itself is a peaceful sanctuary, the surrounding area of Antakya can be bustling. Parking near the mosque can be a challenge, as noted by many visitors.
Beyond the main prayer hall, take time to explore the mosque's courtyard, which often features pleasant greenery like orange trees and houses the tomb of Habib-i Neccar.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit