Nizamiye

Opened in 2012, the Nizamiye Complex stands as a testament to Ottoman architectural grandeur. This isn’t just a university. It’s a vibrant hub, a cultural echo of Turkey nestled in Midrand. The Nizamiye Mosque, the centerpiece of this complex, draws inspiration from the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, a masterpiece by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Scaled to eighty percent of the original, the Nizamiye Mosque captures the essence of Sinan’s vision. Its main dome, reaching 31 meters high and spanning 24 meters wide, is a breathtaking spectacle, covered in 49 tons of lead. Four half-domes and twenty-one smaller domes create a mesmerizing cascade, while inside, Turkish ceramics adorn the walls and intricate calligraphy graces the ceilings. Four towering minarets, each reaching 55 meters, frame the mosque, offering breathtaking views from their three platforms. Light streams through 232 stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the custom-made carpets that mirror the dome’s artistry. The Nizamiye Complex is more than just a mosque. It’s a thriving community center. Within its walls, a school educates up to 850 pupils, blending Islamic studies with the South African secular curriculum. A clinic provides essential healthcare services to the public, a testament to the philanthropic vision of Ali Katircioglu, who funded the complex. A bustling bazaar with eleven shops contributes to the mosque’s upkeep. The Nizamiye Complex is a place of peace and serenity, a small slice of Turkey in South Africa.