Old Mosque

In the heart of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, stands a remarkable historical gem known as the Old Mosque, or Ески джамия in the local language. This medieval structure, steeped in history and architectural grandeur, has served various roles throughout the centuries and now functions as the Museum of Religions. As you step into its serene surroundings, you are immediately transported back in time, where layers of history unfold before your eyes.

The Historical Tapestry of the Old Mosque

The origins of the Old Mosque date back to a time long before its current structure was erected. Archaeological excavations conducted between 2009 and 2011 beneath the mosque revealed a fascinating chronicle of the site's past. Evidence suggests that it was once home to a Thracian sanctuary, followed by a Roman-era shrine dedicated to the Thracian Horseman. By the 10th century, a single-nave cemetery church had been constructed within the medieval necropolis of the city.

Fast forward to the early 15th century, during a tumultuous period marked by internal strife for the Ottoman throne (1402-1413), Hamza Bey, an Ottoman governor of Stara Zagora, commissioned the construction of the current mosque. The building, completed under his directive, stands as a testament to early Ottoman architecture. It is one of the most significant early Ottoman single-dome mosques, second in size only to the mosque in Mudurnu, Northwestern Anatolia, built by Bayezid I Yildirim in 1388.

Architectural Marvels of the Old Mosque

The Old Mosque's architectural design is both unique and captivating. The main prayer hall, a square-shaped room, is crowned by a majestic dome with a diameter of 17.47 meters. What makes this structure truly remarkable is that the enormous dome is supported solely by the walls of the prayer hall, without any intermediate supports, a feat of engineering that was unparalleled at the time.

On the northern side of the mosque, an anteroom was added at a later stage, covered by three small domes. This anteroom features a central chamber directly opposite the entrance to the prayer hall, flanked by two side rooms. The mosque originally had a minaret on its northwest corner, which was demolished in the mid-1980s due to structural concerns.

A Journey Through Time

The Old Mosque has witnessed numerous transformations over the centuries. In 1856, a devastating fire severely damaged the mosque. The subsequent restoration, completed between 1859 and 1860, introduced Baroque-style ornamental wall paintings that still adorn the interior walls. A wooden gallery, constructed above the entrance door in the prayer hall, also dates back to this period.

Remarkably, the Old Mosque was one of the few buildings to survive the burning of Stara Zagora by the Central Ottoman Army during the Russo-Turkish War of Liberation in 1877. After Bulgaria's liberation in 1878, the mosque briefly served as a church before reverting to its original function as a Muslim prayer house. It was closed for extensive restoration by the National Institute for Monuments of Culture, which concluded in 1976. During the forced renaming of Bulgarian Turks in 1985, the minaret was demolished, and the crescent symbol was removed from the dome.

The Museum of Religions

Today, the Old Mosque has been meticulously restored with the generous financial support of the European Union between 2008 and 2013. It now serves as the Museum of Religions, a place where visitors can explore the rich tapestry of faiths and cultures that have shaped the region. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the diverse religious history of Stara Zagora, from its Thracian and Roman roots to its medieval Christian and Ottoman Islamic heritage.

Inside the museum, visitors can view a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the different historical periods represented at the site. The museum's mission is to foster understanding and appreciation of the region's multi-layered religious history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Exploring the Surroundings

While visiting the Old Mosque, take some time to explore the surrounding area. Stara Zagora is a city rich in history and culture, offering numerous attractions for visitors. The city's central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the wider region, including nearby historical sites and natural wonders.

In conclusion, the Old Mosque in Stara Zagora is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of the enduring spirit of the city and its people. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, offering a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable place. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Old Mosque is sure to be a memorable and enlightening experience.