Etimesgut Camii

Gazing upon the Etimesgut Camii, have you ever considered how a place of worship could defy tradition? Right here in Etimesgut, Ankara, stands a mosque unlike any other. Etimesgut Camii breaks the mold of traditional Turkish mosque architecture. Built in 1965, it represents one of Turkey’s earliest modern mosque designs. Its architect, Cengiz Bektaş, envisioned a space that challenged convention, a testament to his innovative spirit. This unique design was made possible partly due to the involvement of the Turkish Armed Forces, who commissioned the mosque. Etimesgut Camii’s design intentionally omits the classic dome and minaret. The upper floor, intended for women, is accessed by a staircase ingeniously incorporated into the structure, almost mimicking a minaret’s function. A subtle, thin slit between the roof and walls offers a modern interpretation of the traditional dome. Bektaş designed Etimesgut Camii with a specific narrative in mind. He considered questions like “Where will I cleanse myself?” and “Where will I ascend to face God?” to guide his design process. The unusual hexagonal layout and the absence of traditional elements make it difficult to discern the building’s purpose from the outside. The mosque’s interior is equally fascinating. Natural light filters through vertical slits and horizontal openings beneath the roof, illuminating the prayer hall differently throughout the day. This dynamic interplay of light and shadow transforms the space into a living sundial, marking the passage of time. The five walls behind the qibla wall symbolize the Prophet Muhammad and the Four Caliphs. The light penetrating the space represents the concept of infinity. Even the absence of ornamentation and the stark geometry of the mihrab enhance the spiritual atmosphere. Etimesgut Camii stands as a unique landmark in Turkish architectural history. Its unconventional design and innovative use of light and space offer a powerful and memorable spiritual experience.