Cafer Ağa Mosque is one of the classic Ottoman-era mosques located in the Mühürdar neighborhood of Istanbul's Kadıköy district. The mosque was built between 1554 and 1557 by Cafer Ağa, one of the leading figures of the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The building stands out for its location, architecture, and intertwined educational and worship functions.

^{Cafer Ağa Mosque (Kültürenvanteri)}

History

Cafer Ağa Mosque takes its name from its founder, Cafer Ağa. Cafer Ağa was a state official who served in the palace during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and was particularly known for his charitable works. The mosque was built between 1554 and 1557, along with a primary school and a small complex bearing the same name. The mosque is one of the early examples of the classical Ottoman architectural style on the Anatolian side.

The structure has undergone various repairs since its construction. Although it lost some of its original features during repairs in the 19th and 20th centuries, its basic plan and stonework have been largely preserved. The mosque's immediate surroundings have become densely populated over time, but the mosque has managed to preserve its historical texture thanks to its location on the Kadıköy coastline and in the bazaar.

Architectural Features

Cafer Ağa Mosque is a square-shaped structure with a single dome. The main space formed by the four walls supporting the dome is in line with the classic Ottoman mosque plan. The courtyard of the mosque has been preserved in its original form, albeit on a small scale. The minaret is located on the right corner of the mosque and is built of cut stone. The facade of the mosque is covered with a mixture of neatly cut stone and brick.

The interior is dominated by a simple decorative style. The mihrab is made of stone, while the minbar is made of wood. Simple decorations are preferred in the harim section, while the last congregation hall is left open. There is an inscription above the entrance door of the mosque, which provides information about the date of construction and the founder.

^{Cafer Ağa Mosque Interior (Tarihi.ist)}

Educational Function and Sıbyan Mektebi

The sıbyan mektebi, built together with the Cafer Ağa Mosque, is one of the classical structures built for the education of children during that period. This school was located adjacent to the mosque and was operated under the mosque's endowment. Although it lost its educational function over time, the structure has continued to exist as part of the cultural and social memory of the area.

Current Status

Cafer Ağa Mosque is currently open for worship and operates under the Kadıköy Mufti's Office. The mosque is regularly used by the congregation as it is located in a densely populated neighborhood. It is particularly crowded during Friday, teravih, and holiday prayers.