Şadırvan Mosque
A historic Ottoman mosque in Izmir's Kemeraltı Bazaar, known for its unique shadervan fountain and serene spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Şadırvan Mosque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Ottoman mosque in Izmir's Kemeraltı Bazaar, known for its unique shadervan fountain and serene spiritual atmosphere.
"A beautiful historical mosque with a high spiritual atmosphere, located in Kemeraltı bazaar."
🎯 Hidden Entrance
The mosque entrance is upstairs, tucked away in Kemeraltı Bazaar. Look for the stairs! :arrowheadingup:
🤫 Be Respectful
Remove shoes, speak softly, and be mindful of worshippers. Photos are okay, but be discreet. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shadervan Fountain
Ground level, near the entrance
An impressive fountain that gives the mosque its name, featuring ancient-looking columns and a calming water feature.
Ornate High Ceiling Dome
Main prayer hall
Step inside to find a peaceful sanctuary with a magnificent, ornate dome that creates a sense of awe.
Historical Library
West side of the mosque
Discover a historical library, a testament to the mosque's rich past and its role as a center of knowledge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Entrance
Respectful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hidden Entrance
The mosque entrance is upstairs, tucked away in Kemeraltı Bazaar. Look for the stairs! :arrowheadingup:
🤫 Be Respectful
Remove shoes, speak softly, and be mindful of worshippers. Photos are okay, but be discreet. :pray:
💧 Fountain's Serenity
The namesake fountain offers a tranquil spot. Enjoy the soothing sound of water. :droplet:
🕌 Architectural Gem
Admire the ornate dome and historical architecture. A true feast for the eyes! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hidden Entrance
The mosque entrance is upstairs, tucked away in Kemeraltı Bazaar. Look for the stairs! :arrowheadingup:
🤫 Be Respectful
Remove shoes, speak softly, and be mindful of worshippers. Photos are okay, but be discreet. :pray:
💧 Fountain's Serenity
The namesake fountain offers a tranquil spot. Enjoy the soothing sound of water. :droplet:
🕌 Architectural Gem
Admire the ornate dome and historical architecture. A true feast for the eyes! :camerawithflash:
🐈 Cat-Friendly Vibes
You might find friendly feline residents enjoying the mosque's peaceful ambiance. :cat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Shadervan Mosque for its beautiful historical architecture, serene spiritual atmosphere, and the unique shadervan fountain. Its hidden location within the bustling Kemeraltı Bazaar adds to its charm, offering a peaceful sanctuary. Some find the entrance a bit tricky to locate amidst the market.
"A beautiful historical mosque with a high spiritual atmosphere , located in Kemeraltı bazaar, which takes its name from the fountain next to it and below it.
It was built by "Bıyıklıoğlu Mahmut " in 1636. After it suffered a fire several times, it was repaired in 1815 and 1883. A library and a temporary office were added to the mosque in 1834. The minaret of the mosque was taken into maintenance in 1941."
WASEEM AMIN
"Yet another very old and magnificent mosque in old Kemeralti Town. The mosque is hard to find on that it is buried in the market area, and the the entrance is upstairs. The fountain on the ground is amazing, the columns look a thousand years old. Inside the mosque is peace and quiet, ornate high ceiling dome.
Of course, be sure to remove shoes and respect the carpet and the site. Speak softly. Photos are ok, but be respectful."
Steven Webb
"Beautiful mosque masallah"
Ersoy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shadervan Mosque is located in the heart of the Kemeraltı Bazaar in Izmir. Its entrance is upstairs, so you'll need to look for the stairs leading up from the market street.
You can easily reach Kemeraltı Bazaar by public transport. Take a tram to the 'Çankaya' or 'Konak' stop, and then it's a short walk into the bazaar area. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking in the Kemeraltı Bazaar area can be challenging due to its busy nature. It's recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to avoid parking difficulties.
Yes, many guided tours of Izmir's historical sites, including Kemeraltı Bazaar, will often include a stop at Shadervan Mosque. This can be a great way to learn about its history and significance.
Kemeraltı Bazaar generally operates from morning until evening, typically around 9 AM to 7 PM, though individual shop hours may vary. The mosque itself is usually accessible during prayer times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Shadervan Mosque. It is a functioning place of worship and is open to visitors free of charge.
Shadervan Mosque is generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's advisable to check local prayer schedules or visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
Tickets are not required for Shadervan Mosque as it is a free-entry place of worship. Simply arrive and enter respectfully.
Yes, as a mosque, modest dress is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women will need to cover their heads, and scarves are usually available at the entrance if needed.
Photography is generally permitted inside Shadervan Mosque, but it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid taking photos of people praying and be discreet.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
The shadervan, or fountain, is a central feature and gives the mosque its name. Historically, shadervans were used for ablution (ritual washing) before prayer. The sound of water was also believed to have therapeutic qualities.
Shadervan Mosque showcases Ottoman architectural influences, with a prominent dome and minaret. It was built in 1636 and has undergone several repairs, notably in 1815 and 1883.
The entrance to Shadervan Mosque is upstairs, which might pose a challenge for individuals with significant mobility issues. The interior prayer hall is on one level once inside.
Restrooms are typically available within the mosque complex or nearby in the bazaar. Dedicated prayer rooms are part of the mosque's function.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere inside Shadervan Mosque as peaceful, serene, and spiritually uplifting, offering a quiet escape from the bustling bazaar.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate dome from the inside, the historic shadervan fountain, and the intricate details of the mosque's architecture are prime photography subjects.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around religious sites. It's best to avoid drone photography to respect local regulations and the sanctity of the place.
Morning light can offer softer illumination for the exterior and interior. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful light, especially if you're capturing the mosque within the bazaar context.
Always be mindful of worshippers. Avoid flash photography during prayer times and refrain from intrusive shots. Respect the sanctity of the space.
Yes, the cats are a common sight and often friendly. They add a unique charm to the mosque's atmosphere, and photographing them is usually fine, as long as you're not disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the entrance is upstairs, which might require carrying strollers. The mosque's serene interior offers a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and places of worship. You might even encounter some of the mosque's resident friendly cats, which can be a delightful surprise for kids!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the respectful photography guidelines: avoid flash during prayer times and be discreet. The best times for photography are typically during the quieter morning hours or late afternoon when the light is softer. The presence of resident cats can also add a charming, candid element to your photos.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Take your time to admire the shadervan fountain and the grand dome. You can easily blend in with other visitors and absorb the spiritual ambiance without feeling out of place. Remember to dress modestly and be respectful of worshippers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Shadervan Mosque
The architectural style reflects Ottoman influences, featuring an ornate dome and a single minaret. The shadervan, situated beneath an open dome, not only provided water but also contributed to the mosque's ventilation and lighting system. This design was also intended to help preserve the interior calligraphy by maintaining humidity. Evliya Çelebi, the famous Ottoman traveler, even described the mosque as resembling a white pearl.
Visiting Shadervan Mosque offers a glimpse into centuries of history and Islamic tradition. It stands as a testament to the enduring architectural and spiritual heritage of the region, providing a peaceful sanctuary amidst the lively bazaar. Its historical library and the unique shadervan design make it a noteworthy stop for anyone interested in Ottoman history and mosque architecture.
Experiencing the Shadervan's Ambiance
Beyond its practical functions, the shadervan contributes significantly to the spiritual atmosphere of the mosque. The sound of running water can be incredibly calming, offering a moment of reflection and tranquility away from the bustling Kemeraltı Bazaar outside. Many visitors find this element to be a highlight of their visit, enhancing the overall sense of peace and serenity within the prayer hall.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the shadervan. It's a beautiful example of how functional elements were integrated into Islamic architecture to create spaces that are both spiritually uplifting and environmentally conscious. The interplay of light, water, and the mosque's grand dome creates a truly memorable and immersive experience.
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