The Arslanhane (Ahi Şerafettin) Mosque, located in the Ulus-Samanpazarı district of Altındağ, Ankara, is one of the significant examples of timber-columned and beam-structured mosques of the Medieval Anatolian period. Constructed in the 13th century by the Ahi Brotherhood, the mosque was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. Positioned at the southern edge of Ankara Castle, it is also known as Arslanhane due to the presence of an ancient lion statue.

History

Although the exact construction inscription has not survived, the wooden pulpit inscription indicates that the mosque was built around 1289–1290 during the reign of Seljuk Sultan Kaykaus II. It is also thought that it may have been commissioned by Seyfeddin Çeşnigir in the early 13th century. The mosque underwent repairs in the 13th century and has survived to the present day.

Architectural Features

The mosque has a rectangular plan with five naves in a basilica style. The central nave is wider and higher than the side naves. Numerous spolia materials from the Roman and Byzantine periods were incorporated into the walls. The cylindrical columns, re-used bases, and brick minaret in the northeast corner stand out as remarkable architectural features.

^{İnterior View of the Mosque - (Anadolu Agency)}

Interior and Ornamentation

The mihrab is considered one of the most unique elements of the Seljuk period. Decorated with muqarnas, glazed tiles, and stucco, it forms a large panel rising to the ceiling. The walnut wood pulpit represents a fine example of Seljuk woodcarving, adorned with intricate geometric motifs. The women’s gallery, built of wood, is located at the northern side of the sanctuary.

^{Special Engravings Inside the Mosque - (Anadolu Agency)}

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the Kale neighborhood of Ulus-Samanpazarı, at the southern end of Ankara Castle, the mosque is easily accessible via public transportation and pedestrian routes. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from the city center of Ulus.

^{Mosque Minaret - (Anadolu Agency)}

UNESCO World Heritage Status

The mosque was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. Other mosques inscribed include the Great Mosque of Afyonkarahisar, Sivrihisar Grand Mosque in Eskişehir, Eşrefoğlu Mosque in Konya, and Mahmut Bey Mosque in Kastamonu. In Ankara, it became the second heritage site after Gordion to be included on the UNESCO list.