The Eşrefoğlu Mosque with Anatolian Wooden Columns from the Middle Ages – Konya

The Eşrefoğlu Mosque with Anatolian Wooden Columns from the Middle Ages – Konya, Turkey

**A UNESCO Gem in the Heart of Anatolia**

Nestled in the ancient region of Beyşehir in Konya Province, central Turkey, the Eşrefoğlu Mosque stands as one of the finest and best-preserved examples of wooden-columned Islamic architecture from the Middle Ages. This stunning mosque is not only a masterpiece of Seljuk-era design, but it also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance that has earned it a coveted place on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Dating back to the late 13th century, this mosque reflects a rich blend of Anatolian craftsmanship, environmental harmony, and spiritual grandeur that continues to captivate visitors from across the world. Whether you're a lover of architecture, history, or sacred spaces, the Eşrefoğlu Mosque offers a journey back in time like no other.

A Legacy of the Eşrefoğlu Dynasty

The mosque was commissioned by Süleyman Bey, the ruler of the Eşrefoğlu Beylik, a small Anatolian principality that emerged following the weakening of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. Constructed between 1296 and 1299, the mosque served not only as a center of worship but also as a symbol of political and cultural prestige during a time of regional fragmentation and transition.

Though the Eşrefoğlu Beylik was relatively short-lived, the mosque remains its most enduring legacy—an architectural marvel that reflects the region’s historical importance and the sophistication of its artisans.

Architectural Wonder: The Wooden Columns

One of the most striking features of the Eşrefoğlu Mosque is its interior forest of wooden columns. With 42 massive cedar wood pillars, each rising majestically to support the intricately carved ceiling, the mosque presents a unique aesthetic rarely seen in Islamic architecture.

What makes these columns even more impressive is their durability. Now more than 700 years old, they have withstood the test of time thanks to a clever preservation technique: the logs were soaked in nearby Beyşehir Lake for months to remove resin and improve their resistance to decay. This ancient form of “wood curing” has allowed the structure to remain standing in its original form, a rarity among wooden buildings from this era.

A Ceiling of Stories and Stars

The ceiling itself is another marvel, adorned with elaborate geometric carvings and Seljuk motifs. Light filters in through small windows and plays gently on the wooden beams, casting warm, golden hues throughout the prayer hall.

Above it all is the open-roofed skylight, known as the “cube” or "küp", which not only provides natural lighting but also represents a spiritual connection to the heavens. In winter, snow once gently fell inside the mosque through this opening, a sight described in many poetic accounts. Beneath it, a special stone basin collected melted snow, symbolizing purification.

Interior Details: Art Meets Devotion

Inside, the mosque is a haven of spiritual artistry. The mihrab (prayer niche) is a remarkable work of glazed tilework—shining blue, turquoise, and white in complex floral and calligraphic designs. The minbar (pulpit), carved from walnut wood, showcases the incredible skill of Seljuk artisans, with its latticework and inlaid motifs that merge form and function seamlessly.

The sense of space, symmetry, and organic materials reflects the harmony that Seljuk architecture often sought to create between human beings, their environment, and the divine.

UNESCO Recognition and Cultural Value

Recognizing its unparalleled cultural and architectural significance, the Eşrefoğlu Mosque was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List in 2011. It is one of the few surviving examples of its kind and a rare representation of Middle Age Anatolian mosque architecture with wooden support systems.

Its inclusion on this list has helped draw international attention to Konya's rich heritage, adding another layer to the city’s already profound historical narrative—home also to the tomb of Rumi and numerous Seljuk landmarks.

Experiencing the Mosque Today

Visitors to the mosque are often struck by the serene atmosphere that fills the prayer hall. Despite its age, the building remains an active place of worship, welcoming both the faithful and the curious traveler. Whether you join for a quiet moment of reflection, or simply to admire the architectural detail, the Eşrefoğlu Mosque offers an intimate connection to centuries of devotion.

The nearby town of Beyşehir offers additional attractions, including the scenic Beyşehir Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Turkey, and the remnants of other Seljuk-era structures. This makes it easy to plan a cultural and natural escape all in one itinerary.

Getting There and Practical Information

The mosque is located in Beyşehir, around 90 kilometers west of Konya city, which is easily accessible by car or public transport. Konya itself is well connected to major Turkish cities via high-speed trains, buses, and domestic flights.

Opening hours: The mosque is generally open during daylight hours and can be visited outside of prayer times. Modest dress is recommended, and women may be required to wear a headscarf (usually provided at the entrance).

Admission: Free, though donations are welcome for upkeep and preservation.

Conclusion: A Living Monument to the Past

The Eşrefoğlu Mosque is more than a historic building; it is a living monument, echoing with the prayers of centuries and embodying the craftsmanship, faith, and vision of a bygone era. In an age where concrete and steel dominate the architectural landscape, this wooden sanctuary offers a reminder of the elegance of natural materials, the endurance of cultural identity, and the sacred power of space.

For anyone visiting Turkey and seeking an authentic glimpse into medieval Anatolian art and spirituality, the Eşrefoğlu Mosque is an unforgettable destination that deserves a top spot on your itinerary.