“What happened here in 2019?” I ask. The answer lies within the story of the Konyalı Camii.
Let me introduce you to the Konyalı Camii in Zeytinburnu a district of Istanbul. This mosque has a tale of resilience. It rose from the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
In 2019 a tremor shook Istanbul. The Konyalı Camii suffered critical damage. It was declared unsafe and sealed off. The Zeytinburnu Municipality took swift action. They demolished the mosque ensuring public safety. But this wasn’t the end for the Konyalı Camii.
The community longed for their place of worship. The municipality initiated expropriation. This paved the way for rebuilding the Konyalı Camii.
On June 17 2022 a foundation laying ceremony took place. The event was held at Şehit Cihan Karagözlü Middle School. Important figures attended. Hasan Turan a member of the Turkish Grand National Assembly. Zekeriya Güney the Governor of Zeytinburnu. Ömer Arısoy the Mayor of Zeytinburnu. Safi Arpaguş the Mufti of Istanbul were present.
Akif Aksoy the Konyalı Camii Imam recited the Quran. Mayor Ömer Arısoy addressed the crowd. He said the goal was to complete construction by Ramadan Bayram in April 2023. He hoped the community could celebrate the holiday at the Konyalı Camii.
The new Konyalı Camii covers 2864 square meters in Yeşiltepe Mahallesi. It can accommodate 1000 worshippers. There is parking for 21 vehicles. It also has three classrooms for 24 people. There is a 195 square meter course building. An 87 square meter condolence house is available. The mosque includes a courtyard modern restrooms ablution facilities a tea house and an association room.
The Konyalı Camii was finally opened again for worship. Its opening ceremony was a momentous occasion. Numan Kurtulmuş Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly attended. Adem Uslu the Governor of Zeytinburnu was present. Ömer Arısoy the Mayor of Zeytinburnu also participated. Many citizens joined the celebration.
Numan Kurtulmuş spoke about the Islamic world. He emphasized the need for unity. He criticized the silence of the world regarding the inhumane actions in Gaza.
Mayor Arısoy emphasized the importance of mosques in Islamic civilizations. He noted that cities and communities often develop around mosques. Mosques provide identity and gather the minds of the city.
Today the Konyalı Camii stands as a symbol of hope. It demonstrates the community’s resilience. It reflects their commitment to faith and togetherness. Remember the Konyalı Camii as more than just a building. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Istanbul.