Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar) - a large building with a tall tower
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Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar)

4.3
·428 reviews·Thessaloniki, Greece

A 15th-century Ottoman mosque in Thessaloniki, significant for its history but currently inaccessible to visitors.

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Must-see attractions

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Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
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Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar) - a large building with a tall tower

Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar)

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 15th-century Ottoman mosque in Thessaloniki, significant for its history but currently inaccessible to visitors.

4.3
(428 reviews)

"So sad that very historic Masjed in. The city is not open for Puplic or prayers and at very. Bad conditions"

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Check for Updates

The mosque is currently closed. Keep an eye on local news or tourism sites for any changes in its status. :informationdeskperson:

Understand its History

Learn about its Ottoman origins and its place in Thessaloniki's complex history before visiting. :scroll:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

15th-Century Ottoman Architecture

15th-Century Ottoman Architecture

A testament to Ottoman craftsmanship, though currently inaccessible. Its historical importance is undeniable.

Symbol of Thessaloniki's Past

Symbol of Thessaloniki's Past

Represents a crucial, yet often overlooked, part of the city's multicultural heritage.

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Current Status: Closed for Visitors

As of August 2025, the Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar) is boarded up and closed to the public. Many historical mosques in Thessaloniki have been destroyed, making this a sensitive site. Check local sources for any updates on accessibility or renovation progress.

Historical Significance & Preservation Concerns

This 15th-century Ottoman mosque is a significant piece of Thessaloniki's history. Travelers express sadness over its current state and the loss of historical religious sites in the city. Its future accessibility remains uncertain.

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

EN: Hamza Bey Mosque is a 15th-century Ottoman Mosque in Salonica. It was built by order of Hafsa Hatun, the daughter of Isa Bey Evrenosoğlu, but named after Hamza Bey, the Beylerbey of Rumeli. It was damaged in later earthquakes and fires and was rebuilt in 1620. Following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, the mosque no longer functioned as a religious building. The mosque is cov...
historyofartarchitecture
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Check for Updates

The mosque is currently closed. Keep an eye on local news or tourism sites for any changes in its status. :informationdeskperson:

Understand its History

Learn about its Ottoman origins and its place in Thessaloniki's complex history before visiting. :scroll:

Respectful Observation

Even when closed, observe from the exterior with respect for its historical and religious significance. :pray:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Updates

The mosque is currently closed. Keep an eye on local news or tourism sites for any changes in its status. :informationdeskperson:

Understand its History

Learn about its Ottoman origins and its place in Thessaloniki's complex history before visiting. :scroll:

Respectful Observation

Even when closed, observe from the exterior with respect for its historical and religious significance. :pray:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(428 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors express deep disappointment that the historic Hamza Bey Mosque (Alkazar) is boarded up and inaccessible. Many lament the poor condition of the mosque and the perceived lack of respect for Thessaloniki's historical religious sites, highlighting a significant loss for cultural heritage.

"As at 9 August 2025 this is boarded up and closed."

AussieIslander

"The city of Thessaloniki had 30-40 mosques and almost all of them have been destroyed, so the Greek state has lost its history and has shown that it has not been respectful of other religions."

Enes Latifi

"So sad that very historic Masjed in. The city is not open for Puplic or prayers and at very. Bad conditions"

yehia tawfik

What People Like

Historical significance
Ottoman architecture

What People Dislike

Currently closed
Poor condition
Inaccessible

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hamza Bey Mosque is located in the city center of Thessaloniki. While it's a historically significant site, it is currently boarded up and inaccessible to visitors. Public transport options like buses are available for reaching the general area, but direct access to the mosque is not possible at this time.

Its central location makes it theoretically easy to find, but its current closed state means you'll likely only see it from the outside. It's situated in a part of the city where you can explore other historical sites on foot.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, as of August 2025, the Hamza Bey Mosque is boarded up and closed to the public. There are no tickets available for entry, and it is not open for prayers or tours.

The mosque is currently closed and has no set opening hours for visitors. Information regarding any future reopening or renovation schedules is not publicly available.

Since the mosque is closed, there is no entrance fee. Access is currently restricted.

Reviews suggest it may be closed for renovation or in a state of disrepair. However, specific details about ongoing work or future plans are not widely publicized.

📸 📸 Photography

You can take photos of the exterior of the Hamza Bey Mosque. However, due to its current closed and boarded-up state, interior photography is not possible. Focus on capturing its architectural details from the outside.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about Ottoman history and architecture, the Hamza Bey Mosque is a site of great interest, even in its current state. While you cannot enter, understanding its historical context as a 15th-century structure built by prominent figures adds depth to its significance. Researching its past and the broader history of mosques in Thessaloniki before your visit will enhance your appreciation of its architectural style and historical role. TikTok

Be prepared for disappointment regarding access, as it is currently boarded up. Focus on appreciating its exterior presence and its place within the city's historical narrative. Consider visiting other accessible historical sites in Thessaloniki to gain a fuller picture of its layered past.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Historical Context and Current State

The Hamza Bey Mosque, also known as Alkazar, is a significant 15th-century Ottoman mosque in Thessaloniki. It was originally built by order of Hafsa Hatun, daughter of Isa Bey Evrenosoğlu, and named after Hamza Bey, the Beylerbey of Rumeli. This mosque represents a crucial piece of the city's rich Ottoman heritage.

Unfortunately, like many historical mosques in Thessaloniki, the Hamza Bey Mosque has suffered damage over the centuries from earthquakes and fires, and has undergone rebuilding. Following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, the mosque ceased to be used for its original purpose. Travelers have noted with sadness that the mosque is currently boarded up and closed to the public, with some reviews indicating it's in a bad condition and a pity that such an important building is inaccessible. TikTok

This situation reflects a broader concern among visitors about the preservation of historical religious sites in Thessaloniki. The current inaccessibility of the Hamza Bey Mosque leaves many historical enthusiasts and travelers disappointed, highlighting a desire for better preservation and accessibility of these cultural landmarks.

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