Şakirin Mosque
A modern mosque at the gates of Karacaahmet Cemetery, known for its glass mihrab and carbon-neutral design.
Şakirin Mosque stands at one of the entrances to the historic Karacaahmet Cemetery in Üsküdar. Completed in 2009, it was built by the Semiha Şakir Foundation in memory of İbrahim and Semiha Şakir. Unlike the classical Ottoman mosques scattered across the city, its architecture is resolutely modern, with a minimalist prayer hall centered around a striking glass mihrab.
The mosque was designed with sustainability in mind and is reportedly the most carbon-neutral mosque in Turkey. The clean lines and abundant natural light create a calm, contemplative space that feels more like a contemporary gallery than a traditional place of worship. It's a quiet corner of Üsküdar, just steps from one of Istanbul's largest and oldest cemeteries, making it an interesting stop for those exploring the Asian side.
“To see Turkey's most carbon-neutral mosque and its unusual glass mihrab.”
The mosque closes to visitors during prayer times; check local call-to-prayer schedules before going.
Good to know
- Is Şakirin Mosque free to visit?
- Free. Contemporary mosque at the Karacaahmet Cemetery gate — glass mihrab and modern design; outside prayer times
- How long should you spend at Şakirin Mosque?
- ~30 min
- When is the best time to visit Şakirin Mosque?
- Morning
- Is there a dress code at Şakirin Mosque?
- Headscarf required. Scarves provided at entrance; shoulders and knees must be covered. Closed to tourists during prayer times.
