Melek Ahmed Pasha Mosque

Melek Ahmed Pasha Mosque is a historic mosque located in the Sur district of Diyarbakır. The mosque, whose plan and architecture show the influence of Mimar Sinan, was commissioned by Melek Ahmed Pasha in the 16th century.

History and architecture

The mosque was built between 1587 and 1791 during the Ottoman period by Melek Ahmed Pasha of Diyarbakır while he was governor. The plan and architecture show the influence of Mimar Sinan. The mosque consists of a ground floor plus one upper floor. The two‑storey building, constructed with two‑coloured stone material, has its south and north façades made of black‑white stone rows, while the side walls are built of black rubble stone. On the ground floor there are four rooms covered with vaults. Below the mosque there are storages and shops, while the upper part houses the prayer hall. Under the western wing of the structure there is an abbay (entrance hall) that provides access to the street. The mosque, entered through a basalt door carved with fine motifs and having a spacious courtyard, has its minaret built on an ornate base. In the mosque courtyard there is a fountain and a rectangular ablution area.

It has a mihrab covered with tiles.