Eşrefoğlu Mosque Beyşehir
A 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece, this mosque boasts Anatolia's largest wooden pillar hall, showcasing intricate artistry and historical innovation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Eşrefoğlu Mosque Beyşehir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece, this mosque boasts Anatolia's largest wooden pillar hall, showcasing intricate artistry and historical innovation.
"A true masterpiece and a symbol of Turkey’s rich heritage, this architectural marvel is a must-visit."
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the details and history of this unique wooden mosque.
👗 Dress modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Wooden Pillars
Interior
Marvel at the 46 cedar wood pillars, a testament to Seljuk craftsmanship. Each is uniquely carved and historically treated to last centuries.
Intricate Wood Carvings
Interior and Exterior
Admire the detailed wood carvings and decorative motifs that adorn the mosque, showcasing exceptional Anatolian artistry.
The Unique Cone-Like Structure
Exterior
Appreciate the distinctive outer architecture, particularly the cone-like roof structure that gives the mosque its iconic silhouette.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Respectful Attire is Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the details and history of this unique wooden mosque.
👗 Dress modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship.
📸 Capture the details
The intricate wood carvings and unique architecture are incredibly photogenic.
💧 Experience the cooling system
Learn about the historical method of using snow and water to keep the wood from drying out.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the details and history of this unique wooden mosque.
👗 Dress modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active place of worship.
📸 Capture the details
The intricate wood carvings and unique architecture are incredibly photogenic.
💧 Experience the cooling system
Learn about the historical method of using snow and water to keep the wood from drying out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Eşrefoğlu Mosque for its stunning and unique wooden architecture, calling it a masterpiece of Seljuk artistry. Its historical significance and preservation are highly appreciated, making it a memorable stop for those traveling through the region. Some noted the mosque can be cold inside and mentioned concerns about visitor attire.
"While en route Konya to Antalya this unique Mosque made from Wooden pilliors is truly a pleasant surprise & one doesn't have to detour from the main route. Sita on the banks of Lake which is equally beautiful & a picture perfect destination.
Eşrefoglu Mosque is a 13th-century mosque in Beyşehir, Konya, Turkey It is situated 100 metres (330 ft) north of the Beysehir Lake.
History -
Although his beylik was relatively an unimportant political power, the city flourished as one of the cultural centers of Seljuk world. In 1296, he commissioned a mosque in Beyşehir, one of the greatest mosques during the Anatolian beylik period. In 1302 he died and buried in a sepulcher next to the mosque. Notable thing is On 15 April 2011 the mosque was included in the list of World Heritage Tentative list.
I really liked it
Time Taken 30 Minutes
Architecture Unique & made of Wood.
Do I recommend Yes if you are driving down from this Route.
Preetam.✨"
Preetam Chordia
"Stunning architecture from the Seljuk Dynasty. Very different from the other masjids/mosques in Istanbul. One thing I disliked is that women entered the mosque wearing extremely revealing clothes. There should be more enforcement at this mosque regarding this.
May Allah SWT keep the masjids full, always."
Luqmaan Karodia
"A 700+ years old mosque that dates back to the Seljuk empire time. From the inside with the amount of wood used in its build, it looks special and different from others. There are graves for well known historian characters inside as well. On the day I’ve visited the mosque, it was insanely cold inside. I like the outer architect and the cone-like structure. It gives the mosque its unique and iconic shape."
Ihab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eşrefoğlu Mosque is located in the city center of Beyşehir, Konya. If you're driving from Konya to Antalya, it's conveniently located just 100 meters north of Beyşehir Lake and doesn't require a significant detour. Public transportation options to Beyşehir are available from Konya, with local taxis or minibuses (dolmuş) to reach the mosque from the bus station.
Yes, the mosque is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Its central location in Beyşehir makes it a convenient stop for travelers on the Konya-Antalya route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Eşrefoğlu Mosque is generally free, as it is an active place of worship. However, donations are often appreciated to help with its upkeep.
As an active mosque, it is open for prayer times. Visitors are generally welcome outside of prayer times. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for the most current hours.
No, advance booking is not required for visiting the Eşrefoğlu Mosque. It's a historical site open to the public, and you can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Eşrefoğlu Mosque is renowned for its unique wooden architecture, featuring 46 intricately carved cedar wood pillars. It's considered the largest wooden-pillared mosque in Anatolia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List site. 
Most visitors find that 30 minutes is sufficient to explore the mosque and appreciate its architectural details.
Photography is generally permitted inside the mosque, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography.
Some visitors have noted that the mosque can be quite cold inside, especially during winter months, due to its construction and historical cooling methods.
The cedar wood pillars were historically treated by soaking them in water for six months before construction. This method, along with the mosque's central pool that collected snow from the roof, helped maintain humidity and prevent the wood from drying and cracking.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate details of the wooden pillars, the carved mihrab, and the overall interior space. The exterior's unique cone-like structure also makes for great shots, especially during the golden hour.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the mosque administration before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that as an active place of worship, maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor is important. The mosque's central location in Beyşehir also makes it easy to combine with a visit to Beyşehir Lake, providing a pleasant outing for the whole family.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
+2Delve into the details of Seljuk craftsmanship, the unique wood treatment techniques, and the ingenious climate control system. The mosque provides a tangible connection to the past, offering a deep appreciation for the artistry and engineering of the 13th century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Masterpiece of Seljuk Woodwork
+2The mosque's design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ingeniously functional. The wooden elements were treated to ensure longevity, a practice that has allowed the structure to endure for over seven centuries. This dedication to preservation has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, highlighting its global significance.
+2Visitors are consistently awestruck by the intricate carvings and decorative motifs that adorn the mosque's interior and exterior. From the mihrab's detailed patterns to the overall wooden structure, every element tells a story of a rich cultural and artistic heritage.
The Ingenious Climate Control System
During winter, snow from the mosque's roof was channeled through an opening in the ceiling into a central pool. This process helped maintain a consistent level of humidity within the mosque, preventing the wooden pillars from drying out, cracking, and deteriorating over time.
This innovative approach to architecture showcases the advanced understanding of materials and environmental factors possessed by the Seljuk builders. It's a testament to their foresight in creating a structure that would stand the test of time, offering a unique insight into historical engineering.
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