Known also as the Cankurtaran Mescidi, Katip Şemsettin Cami stands before you. This mosque is located in the Demirtaş neighborhood of Fatih. It is on Mehmetpaşa slope. Katip Şemsettin Cami was built during the Ottoman period.
Let’s explore its history. The exact construction date of Katip Şemsettin Cami is unknown. Some sources say it was commissioned by Katip Şemseddin during the reign of Bayezid II. Other sources attribute it to Katip Kasım, the secret scribe of Bayezid II.
For years, Katip Şemsettin Cami lay in ruins. In 1982, the community rallied. They restored the mosque, opening it again for worship. Today, it welcomes all.
Notice the single minaret of Katip Şemsettin Cami. It is made of brick. It features one balcony. The building is constructed of masonry. It has a tiled, flat roof. The interior and exterior walls are cement plaster. The ceiling is covered with wood.
Inside Katip Şemsettin Cami, observe the details. The minbar and kürsü are wooden. The mihrab is marble. The outer prayer space is open. It has a roof supported by four wooden columns.
Katip Şemsettin Cami’s story involves more than just bricks and mortar. According to the foundation deed, 48,000 akçe in cash were endowed to the mosque. Houses, shops, land and rooms were also granted. Separate houses were designated for the imam and muezzin. The annual income was 10,044 akçe. Expenses were covered from this income.
In the Katip Şemsettin Cami’s courtyard, several notable figures rest. Katip Şemsettin himself is buried here. Also interred are İbrahim Ağa, Baş Yamak Halil Ağa, Hamdullah Ağa, and Mustafa Ağa. These men were all officials from the Harem-i Hümayun.
The minaret and sofa you see today are later additions. They were built to match the original design of Katip Şemsettin Cami. The Katip Şemsettin Cami carries stories of faith. It embodies community effort and Ottoman history. Take a moment to appreciate this historical treasure.