Ulu Mosque The Ulu Mosque of Adana, also referred to as the Ramazanoglu Mosque, is a significant religious site in Adana, Turkey. Built during the 16th century, it is part of a broader complex that includes a madrasah and a mausoleum. The construction of the Ulu Mosque was initiated by Ramazanoğlu Halil Bey and later completed by his son and successor, Piri Mehmet Paşa, in 1541. For 450 years, the mosque was the largest in Adana, until the completion of the Sabancı Merkez Camii in 2002. Unfortunately, the mosque was damaged during an earthquake in 1998. Following 12 years of comprehensive restoration work, the iconic mosque was fully renovated in 2004. It now stands as a lasting symbol of the region's rich architectural legacy. The Adana Ulu Mosque is a stunning example of architecture, blending elements from Mamluk, Seljuk, and Ottoman styles. An intriguing aspect is that the western entrance predates the main structure and showcases a different architectural style from that of Ramazanoğlu Halil Bey. This entrance features a conical stalactite roof, rising step by step, which reflects Seljukid design influences. In the early 16th century, the Ramadanids, a small emirate (beylik), constructed a modest mosque to serve their limited domain. As their territory expanded, they built a much larger mosque next to the original structure. The Ulu Mosque features an open layout with a rectangular floor plan that measures 113 feet in length and 107 feet in width. It can be accessed through large gates on the east and west sides of the courtyard, with a wooden roof covering the northern section. This extension serves as a prayer hall supported by pillars, offering a serene and peaceful environment for worshippers. The Adana Ulu Mosque is adorned with a variety of stunning decorations, including Iznik tiles that embellish the mihrab and qibla wall. These tiles were added after 1552, contributing a remarkable touch of elegance to the mosque's interior. The minaret, located near the eastern entrance, features a covered balcony and is inspired by Mamluk architecture. The minaret's exterior is constructed using two contrasting colors of stone, creating a striking visual effect that can be observed from a distance. The madrasah, located on the east, west, and south sides of a nearly square courtyard, is a remarkable part of the mosque complex. The main classroom is situated on the north side and is covered by two domes. The madrasah's outer length, stretching from east to west, measures 32.8 meters (108 feet), and its simple yet graceful stonework is evident throughout. A fountain, supported by eight columns and topped with a pyramidal roof, enhances the beauty of the madrasah's courtyard. However, an unrelated structure has been placed nearby, somewhat disrupting the monument's symmetry and grandeur. The madrasah is also home to an impressive portal niche, which is adorned with beveled molding around the pillars and keystone on both sides. The area surrounding the inscription features intricate patterns formed by intersecting lines, creating a design that resembles palmets (fan-shaped symbols) and badges. On both the east and west walls, the second rectangular window is framed by geometrically patterned molding, which includes checkers, six-armed stars, and flowers at their centers. The mausoleum of the Ramadanids, situated within the mosque complex, features a majestic dome that enhances the site's magnificence. Inside, visitors can observe the sarcophagi of Halil Bey and the sons of Piri Paşa, each beautifully decorated with tiles that contribute to the overall charm of the mausoleum. For any questions or inquiries, please feel free to contact us at [email protected], and we will reply at the earliest opportunity.