This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
Vaniköy Camii is a historical structure located in the Vaniköy neighborhood of Üsküdar, on the Anatolia shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. It was commissioned in 1665 during the reign of Sultan IV. Mehmed by Vani Mehmed Efendi, the renowned Sheikh al-Islam of the period. The mosque’s founder, Vani Mehmed Efendi, was a distinguished figure in the fields of religious sciences and literature. He is known for his translation work titled "Vankulu Lügati," one of the first books printed at the Ottoman press.
Vankulu Lügati (Source:NTV)
The land on which the mosque stands, known as Papaz Bahçesi, was gifted to Vani Mehmed Efendi by Sultan IV. Mehmed. Following this event, the area came to be called Vaniköy. During the reign of Sultan I. Mahmut, a hünkar mahfili was added to the mosque, granting it new functional significance.
Vaniköy Camii exhibits architectural characteristics typical of Bosphorus mosques of its era. The Rectangle-planned structure is built with stone walls and supported by a wood frame system. The entrance faces west, and the front facade includes a camekan section, which serves as the final resting place. Access to the women’s prayer area is through a section supported by six tree columns.
Vaniköy Camii (Source: Instagram/istanbulmosques)
The mihrab has windows on its upper and lower sections. The lower windows feature round arches on the exterior and square-planned interiors, while the upper windows are designed with round arches on both sides. The mosque has a single minaret, constructed on a stone base with one balcony.
Vaniköy Camii (Source: Instagram/istanbulmosques)
A major fire broke out at Vaniköy Camii on 5 November 2020, completely destroying its wooden components. Following the fire, it was decided to restore the mosque in accordance with its original structure, and the works were carried out under a protocol signed between the Kalyon Foundation, the Directorate of Foundations, Second Regional Office, and the Mehmet Vani Foundation. During restoration, the mosque’s original architectural features were preserved, and reinforcement was carried out using modern materials.
Vaniköy Camii Fire (Source: GZT)
Damaged wooden elements recovered from the fire debris were reused in the restoration, while some fragments were preserved for exhibition at the Hünkar Kasrı. A 1600-volume library housing rare works related to Istanbul was opened on the upper floor of the rebuilt mosque. The mosque was reopened for worship on 16 June 2023, contributing to the historical fabric of the Bosphorus.
Vaniköy Camii is an important structure reflecting the religious and cultural heritage of the Ottoman period and contributes to the historical silhouette of the Bosphorus. Noted for its architectural and aesthetic qualities, the mosque holds a significant place in the religious and social life of the city.
Vaniköy Camii (Source: Instagram/istanbulmosques)
Architectural Features
2020 Fire and Restoration
Cultural and Historical Significance