Şeyh Muhtar Mosque 🇹🇷

When you explore Diyarbakır's walled historical district of Sur, a visit to the Sheikh Matar Mosque (also known as Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque or Kasım Padishah Mosque) offers a captivating encounter with Turkish heritage. Situated on Yenikapı Street in the Savaş neighborhood, this site is renowned for its stand-alone Four-legged Minaret, a unique quadratic prism tower built atop four massive stone columns. Historical records note the tower was originally constructed in 906 as a stable, high structure before being converted into a minaret when the mosque was added.

Today, local tradition interprets these four foundational columns as symbolizing the four main denominations of Sunni Islam: Hanafi, Hanbali, Maliki, and Shafi'i. Erected in 1500 by Hajji Hüseyin during Ag Qoyunlu Sultan Kasım Han's reign, the mosque sits on a 600-square-meter estate believed to contain Sheikh Matar's grave. Inside, you will see a single-dome, quadratic-plan design spanning 221 square meters with space for 500 worshipers.

Notice the impressive masonry wall craftsmanship alternating stone with brick, as well as arched windows along the sides, front, and back. Restored in 1960, this historic marvel remains a compelling stop during your journey.

What to see at Şeyh Muhtar Mosque

• The iconic Four-legged Minaret resting on four massive stone columns
• Construction dating back to 1500 under Sultan Kasım Han
• Single-dome quadratic layout with alternating stone masonry and brick
• Local symbolism representing the four Sunni Islam denominations

Visiting tips

Take time to examine the unique stand-alone minaret on Yenikapı Street while exploring the historic Sur district.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Şeyh Muhtar Mosque is easy to reach on Diyarbakır’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St. Giragos Armenian Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Diyarbakır travel guide.