Lost in Ankara’s historical tapestry stands the Seyide Hatun Cami. But let’s journey to another iconic mosque first. We begin our tale not directly at the Seyide Hatun Cami but with a nod to Ankara’s grandest mosque Melike Hatun Mosque.
Melike Hatun Cami stands as a testament to both history and modern architectural ambition. Opened in September 2017 it quickly became a recognizable landmark in Ankara. But who was Melike Hatun?
Melike Hatun was a wealthy 14th-century lady. According to Professor Hüseyin Çınar she was likely the daughter of Kayqubad III. He was the Anatolian Seljuks sultan. She commissioned many public buildings in Ankara and supported Hacı Bayram-ı Veli.
The Melike Hatun Cami itself is quite impressive. It is located in Ankara’s old quarter known as Hergele Meydanı. Hilmi Şenalp designed it. The mosque covers a ground area of 3600 square meters. It can accommodate 7000 worshippers. The dome reaches a height of 47 meters and has a diameter of 27 meters. Four minarets each 72 meters tall adorn the structure each featuring three balconies.
Now imagine the dedication required to complete such a project. Construction lasted four years. Melike Hatun Cami blends Ottoman Seljuk and modern mosque architectural styles. Its architectural features include a main dome that stands 20 centimeters high. The entry gates feature gold leaf mother-of-pearl and ivory inlaid inscriptions.
Now picture the opening ceremony led by then-President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He expressed that the mosque would become a symbol for Ankara. However his remarks sparked debate interpreting the mosque’s construction as a New Ottoman step against the city’s Republican design.
Consider the architectural echoes. The design reflects a traditional approach. It resembles Ottoman-era buildings in plan building elements material techniques and ornamentation.
While Melike Hatun Cami is fairly new the spirit of Melike Hatun connects to the Seyide Hatun Cami which are both reflections of Ankara’s rich Islamic heritage.