Alanyalı Camii

Deep within the heart of Alanya Fortress, high on a hilltop overlooking the city and the sea, lies Alanyalı Camii. Originally commissioned in 1231 by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, Alanyalı Camii has a fascinating story to tell. The mosque you see before you isn’t exactly the same one Keykubad envisioned. Over the centuries, it suffered damage and was even destroyed at one point. Then, in the 16th century, Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent ordered its reconstruction, using the original materials where possible. This blending of eras gives Alanyalı Camii its unique character. The mosque is also known as Alaaddin, Orta Hisar, or Kale Camii among locals. The mosque’s square layout, with its rubble stone and brick construction, showcases Seljuk architecture. Look up at the tiled dome and the minaret. Notice they are both octagonal. A unique feature lies hidden within the dome’s structure. Fifteen small pots are strategically placed within the dome’s supporting section to enhance the acoustics during prayer. This subtle architectural detail adds a special resonance to the worship within. Inside, the mosque is a single, unified prayer hall. Near the northeast corner, you’ll find a vaulted cistern, and next to it, a covered ablution area. Look closely at the mosque’s wooden elements. The door, the minbar (pulpit), and the window frames and shutters are all crafted from cedar wood. These are exquisite examples of 16th-century Ottoman woodwork. Alanyalı Camii stands as a testament to centuries of history and faith. It is a cultural and historical icon of Alanya, drawing visitors from near and far.