“Who was Huseyin Aga?” That’s a question many ponder when they first encounter the beautiful Hacı Hüseyin Cami. This mosque sits modestly on Istiklal Avenue. It is a serene space amidst the bustling city.
Hacı Hüseyin Cami’s story stretches back to the late 16th century. The mosque’s construction is believed to have been around 1596. However some historians suggest it might have been built in 1591 or 1594. But why was it built in such an undeveloped area of Istanbul?
To understand this we must delve into the history of Beyoğlu. This area attracted foreigners. Numerous Christian churches were built there. Hacı Hüseyin Cami became the only Muslim mosque on Istiklal Avenue. In 1596 Taksim was sparsely inhabited. It was mostly open countryside. The water distribution center that gave Taksim Square its name was built much later.
Hacı Hüseyin Aga held two prominent positions. He was appointed the Sheikh-ul-Harem. The word harem refers to Mecca and Medina. Huseyin Aga was in charge of these holy cities.
Before becoming Sheikh-ul-Harem Huseyin Aga was a judge in Medina. He was responsible for disciplining other Agas. He also oversaw legal claims against these eunuchs. Huseyin Aga received funds to pay for pilgrimages. He supervised the people of Medina.
Later Huseyin Aga became head of the palace educational institution. This institution is where Galatasaray Lycee now stands. Legend says Sultan Bayezid II wanted an institution of learning built there.
Professor Stanford Shaw said this was the first large-scale Muslim settlement outside old Istanbul. It included a mosque school barracks and kitchens. The curriculum covered manners writing poetry and military skills.
Huseyin Aga was a product of this system. He likely knew the school at Galatasaray well. He might have been a protégé of Sokollu Mehmed Pasa. Sokollu Mehmed Pasa was grand vizier of Kanuni Sultan Süleyman.
In 1595 white eunuchs were replaced by black eunuchs in the palace. This happened when Sultan Mehmed III ascended the throne. Safiye Sultan became the Valide Sultan. Black eunuchs were considered more reliable around the harem women.
Whether this change influenced the building of the Hacı Hüseyin Cami is unclear. The reason Huseyin Aga built a mosque near Taksim remains a mystery. Perhaps enough Muslims lived there to justify it. The mosque within the Galatasaray complex might have been undesirable.
In the 20th century Nazım Hikmet wrote about the Hacı Hüseyin Cami’s loneliness. It sits quietly on Istiklal Avenue. Its restoration will bring back its former beauty.
Today the Hacı Hüseyin Cami stands as a testament to Istanbul’s diverse history. It is a reminder of Huseyin Aga’s legacy. Its presence enriches the cultural fabric of Istiklal Avenue.