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This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

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Alaeddin Mosque, Konya

Alaeddin Mosque, Konya

Şemsitebrizi Mahallesi, Ariftopçuoğlu Sk. 10a, 42030 Karatay/Selçuklu/Konya

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELIGIOUS SITE

DESCRIPTION
The Alaeddin Mosque (also spelled Alaettin) is the largest and oldest mosque in Konya, constructed by the Seljuk Sultan of Rum in 1221. It lies on Alaettin Hill, the site of Konya's original acropolis. The Alaeddin Mosque has some interesting architectural features, such as columns of different sizes and decorations incorporated from different periods. The interior includes a tomb chamber with the sarcophagi of a dozen Seljuk sultans.
HISTORICAL RELEVANCE
Kaykaus I began a major rebuilding program in 1219. He changed the main entrance from the west to the north, opposite the mihrab. He added a monumental façade on the north side, overlooking the city and facing the Seljuq palace. A marble tomb was begun in the courtyard. Kaykaus’ building was cut short by his death in the same year, only to be resumed thereafter by his brother and successor Kayqubad I. Kayqubad had several of his brother's inscriptions altered and claimed the improvements to the mosque for himself. In 1235 he added a large room, supported by forty-two columns, to the east of the mihrab
INTER-RELIGIOUS RELEVANCE
The minaret, the marble mihrab (1891), and the eastern door, through which most visitors enter the mosque, date from the Ottoman period. The eastern wing of the mosque, constructed with re-used Byzantine and Hellenistic columns, has a unique openness and spaciousness.
RELIGIOUS INFLUENCE
The courtyard of Alâeddin Mosque encloses two monumental mausolea or türbe. According to an inscription on the façade, Kilij Arslan II built the decahedral tomb with the conical roof. This mausoleum became the burial place of the Seljuq dynasty and houses the sarcophagi of eight of the Seljuq sultans of Rum.
HOW TO USE WITH THE STUDENTS
Direct visit is allowed
REFERENCE TO THE GUIDELINE

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    This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.