Welcome to the Muradiye Mosque, Edirne : A Timeless Gem in Edirne, Turkiye

Nestled in the heart of Edirne, Turkey, the Muradiye Mosque stands as a testament to Ottoman architectural brilliance. Dating back to the 15th century, this mosque, commissioned by the esteemed Sultan Murad II, has earned its place in history for its captivating design and remarkable tilework.

Construction and Architecture

Commissioned by Sultan Murad II and completed in 1435-6, the Muradiye Mosque originally formed part of a Mevlevi dervish complex, including an imaret (soup kitchen) and a mekteb (elementary school). Over the centuries, the complex underwent transformations, with the mosque standing as its enduring legacy. The T-shaped plan, five-bay portico, and entrance hall adorned with a domed room on either side showcase the mosque’s modest yet elegant design. Despite enduring earthquake damage, the mosque has been meticulously repaired, with the current minaret structure dating back to 1957.

Tiles: A Symphony of Colors and Designs

The Muradiye Mosque is renowned for its exquisite tilework, particularly in the prayer hall. A tiled frieze graces three walls, showcasing blue-and-white hexagonal tiles that pay homage to the early 14th-century Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. The theft of some tiles in 2001 led to meticulous restoration, with plaster filling the gaps. The frieze, featuring 479 tiles with 53 distinct designs, portrays a captivating blend of influences. The top of the frieze is adorned with large blue-and-white molded palmette tiles, creating a visual masterpiece.

The Exceptional Mihrab

At the heart of the mosque lies an exceptionally large rectangular mihrab, boasting intricate polychrome tiles. The molded tiles bear inscriptions from the Quran (3:32 – 3:35) and a dedication to Sultan Murad II. The spandrels of the niche exhibit elaborate cuerda sec tiles adorned with vibrant glazes. The stalactite vault of the niche, featuring white molded tiles with underglaze floral decoration, adds to the mihrab’s breathtaking beauty.

Masters of Tabriz and Tile Transfer

The polychrome cuerda seca tilework of the mihrab is strikingly similar to that of the Yeşil Mosque in Bursa, suggesting a shared craftsmanship by the “Masters of Tabriz.” Believed to have produced the underglaze painted lunette panels of the Üç Şerefeli Mosque, these artisans marked the beginning of underglaze painted tiles in Ottoman Turkey. While the walls above the tiled frieze are whitewashed, remnants of original painted wall decoration hint at a transfer of tiles from an imperial building, possibly associated with the nearby palace complex.

Preserving History

The Muradiye Mosque stands as a living testament to the rich history of Edirne. Despite the passage of centuries and the transformations it has undergone, the mosque continues to captivate visitors with its architectural grace and vibrant tilework. As you step into this sacred space, you embark on a journey through time, discovering the legacy of Sultan Murad II and the artistic mastery of the “Masters of Tabriz.”