Introduction to the Isa Bey Mosque

Located in the district of Selçuk in İzmir, the Isa Bey Mosque is one of the most significant examples of Anatolian Turkish architecture. Built in the 14th century, the mosque holds great importance not only for its architectural elegance but also for the way it reflects the religious and political atmosphere of its era.

Religious and Political History

The Isa Bey Mosque was commissioned by Isa Bey, one of the prominent rulers of the Aydınid Beylik, during the years 1374–1375. The mosque served as a religious symbol emphasizing the Aydınid presence and their connection to the Islamic world in the İzmir region.

The Aydınids were one of the Anatolian principalities that emerged following the weakening of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. The beylik played a crucial role in maritime trade and also valued science, culture, and art. The construction of the Isa Bey Mosque is a clear reflection of this cultural ascent. Its establishment demonstrates the beylik's intention to consolidate its political power with strong religious foundations.

Geographical Location and Importance

The mosque is located on the southwestern slope of Ayasuluk Hill, in the town of Selçuk, İzmir — a region that was once one of the major settlements of the ancient world. This location gives the mosque both historical and strategic importance. Nearby are notable ancient sites such as the Temple of Artemis, the Basilica of St. John, and the ancient city of Ephesus. This proximity reveals that the mosque was built in the midst of a multi-layered civilization and that Selçuk has long been a center of religious significance.

Furthermore, the region where the mosque is situated has historically served as a bridge between Anatolia and the Aegean world. This makes the Isa Bey Mosque a crossroads of various cultural influences. Today, Selçuk is a major tourism hub, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Architectural Features

The Isa Bey Mosque is one of the earliest examples of architecture from the Anatolian beylik period and stands out with its distinctive plan and decorative elements. The architect of the mosque was Ali bin Mushimish al-Dimashqi, a craftsman from Damascus, Syria — indicating that the mosque reflects not only local but also broader Islamic architectural traditions.

The mosque has a rectangular floor plan measuring approximately 48 x 14 meters. It has two main entrances on the east and west sides. The prayer hall is crowned with a large dome above the mihrab area. On the northern side lies a courtyard surrounded by arcades.

One of the most remarkable features of the mosque is its use of marble ornamentation and brickwork. Spolia from Roman and Byzantine structures were repurposed in its construction, giving the mosque both an aesthetic richness and historical depth. The columns and marble bases, some of which originated from the nearby Temple of Artemis, were carefully integrated into the mosque’s structure.

The minaret, originally located on the western side of the mosque, has not survived to the present day; however, its foundation remains visible and offers insight into its former presence.

Conclusion

The Isa Bey Mosque is more than just a place of worship — it is a multi-layered structure that embodies the religious devotion, political power, and cultural richness of its time. It is invaluable for understanding the artistic and architectural aspirations of the Anatolian beyliks. Situated at the intersection of civilizations, the mosque continues to stand as a unique structure with both historical and geographical significance. Still in use today, it remains an important cultural monument for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and spiritual visitors alike.