The Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex, constructed by Mimar Sinan during the Ottoman period, significantly contributed to the historical and cultural fabric of Küçükçekmece with its religious and social structures. The complex, featuring a tomb, mosque, fountains, madrasa, bathhouse, and library, serves as a prominent example of the Ottoman approach to philanthropy. Built in the 16th century by Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi, the complex reflects the architectural and social life of its era and continues to preserve the cultural heritage of the Ottoman Empire.
Seyyid Abdusselam Complex Bird's Eye View
The History of Küçükçekmece
In the Ottoman period, Küçükçekmece was referred to as "Çekme-i Küçük" and was located on a key transit route for travelers to Rumelia. Due to its strategic location, Küçükçekmece became a preferred crossing point and was adorned with mosques, madrasas, bathhouses, fountains, and charitable structures during the Ottoman period. These contributions led to the region's social and commercial development, establishing it as an important settlement of the empire.
Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi
Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi was a prominent statesman in the 16th-century Ottoman Empire. He served as the Anatolian and Rumelian treasurer during the reigns of Yavuz Sultan Selim and Suleiman the Magnificent, eventually becoming the Chief Treasurer. Known for his exceptional success in financial affairs and charitable personality, Abdüsselam Çelebi was honored with the title "Ebu’l Hayrat" (Father of Good Deeds). The Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex in Küçükçekmece, which he commissioned, stands as one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture, merging social and religious life. The complex reflects the spirit of its era and strengthens societal solidarity through its philanthropic works.
Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex and Its Structures
Mosque
The mosque, located in Küçükçekmece’s Yeni Mahalle neighborhood, is part of the Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex. Thought to be linked to the Tekke Mosque with its minaret and lead-covered dome, mentioned by Evliya Çelebi, the structure was rebuilt in 1966. The mosque features a three-story, T-shaped design. Its main hall includes a dome resting on an octagonal drum, and the mihrab is adorned with Kütahya tiles. Traditional Ottoman elements such as a wooden pulpit, preaching platform, and muezzin gallery are present inside. The windows are arched, with upper-level ones decorated with stained glass. The west-facing two-balcony minaret and the library on the southern ground floor emphasize the mosque’s cultural and religious significance within the complex.
Seyyid Abdüsselam Mosque
Tomb
The Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Tomb, one of the complex's most notable structures, is located in Yeni Mahalle. Designed by Mimar Sinan, the hexagonal tomb exemplifies the elegance of Ottoman tomb architecture. Built on a slope overlooking Küçükçekmece Lake per Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi’s will, the tomb features a modest exterior and an impressive interior. At its center lies Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi’s grave. The inscriptions and details on the walls reflect the artistic sensibilities of the period, enhancing the tomb's spiritual atmosphere.
Seyyid Abdusselam Tomb
Fountain
The complex also includes remarkable fountains, such as the Namazgahlı Fountain in front of the tomb, which exhibits the aesthetic details of Ottoman water architecture. Its inscription notes that Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi was a descendant of Hazrat Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him). Another fountain, attached to the surrounding wall of the complex, was reconstructed in the 18th century by Seyyid Aziz Bey. These fountains symbolize Ottoman philanthropy and are vital elements of the complex.
Seyyid Abdusselam Complex Fountain
Madrasa
The madrasa, an integral part of the complex, was designed to reflect the educational approach of the period, providing both religious and scientific education. Although it played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge in Ottoman society, the madrasa no longer exists, with its presence only documented in historical records.
Bathhouse
Another significant structure of the complex is the bathhouse, which served as a functional complement to the social life of the Ottoman period. Besides fulfilling the community’s need for cleanliness, the bathhouse was a social meeting point. Although little is known about its current condition, the bathhouse was a key element of the complex's original architectural layout.
Library
The Seyyid Abdüsselam Library, part of the complex, is situated beneath the mosque. Constructed during the Ottoman period, the library was once an important center for education and research. Although it is no longer in active use, preserving and restoring the library to ensure its continued cultural and educational role would be of great importance.
Significance of the Complex
Comprising a tomb, mosque, fountains, madrasa, bathhouse, and library, the Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex provides invaluable insights into Ottoman social and cultural life. The structures, bearing Mimar Sinan's architectural signature, add a unique value to the complex while perpetuating the Ottoman ideals of philanthropy and solidarity.
These structures should be preserved not only for Küçükçekmece but for the historical heritage of all Istanbul. The Seyyid Abdüsselam Çelebi Complex stands as a cultural and architectural treasure of the Ottoman period that must be safeguarded for future generations.
