Ali Pasha Mosque (Mizgefta Elî Pasha)

General Information: Ali Pasha Mosque is a historic mosque located in the Sur district of Diyarbakır, Turkey. It is situated in a neighborhood bearing the same name and was commissioned by Hadım Ali Pasha, the Governor of Diyarbekir Province. The mosque bears influences from the renowned architect Mimar Sinan and is a single-domed structure constructed from cut stone. Ali Pasha Mosque forms part of a complex of buildings alongside other structures in its vicinity.

History and Architecture: Although the exact construction date of the mosque is uncertain, it is estimated to have been built between 1534 and 1537 by Hadım Ali Pasha. The mosque exhibits architectural features reminiscent of Mimar Sinan's style and is noteworthy for its single dome and the use of cut stone, typical characteristics of Ottoman-era mosques.

The section to the east of the mosque, belonging to the Shafi'i sect, was added in 1769. Additionally, Ali Pasha Medrese is located to the west of the mosque. To the northeast lies a "zikir place," consisting of a single rectangular space with a barrel vault and a bathhouse. Together with the surrounding structures, the mosque forms a cultural complex.

Architectural Details: The mosque's prayer hall and dome pendentives feature a system of alternating black and white stone rows. Additionally, there are rows of bricks in the pendentives. These architectural details are prominent among the mosque's distinctive features.

Ali Pasha Mosque is a significant religious structure contributing to the historical and cultural richness of Diyarbakır, notable for its architectural characteristics.