Banya Bashi Mosque

The Banya Bashi Mosque, known locally as Баня Баши джамия, stands as a testament to Sofia’s rich historical tapestry and architectural beauty. This iconic structure, built in 1566/67, is the largest and only active mosque in the Bulgarian capital, making it a significant landmark from the era of Ottoman rule. Its name, meaning Many Baths Mosque, hints at its proximity to the mineral baths that have been a feature of Sofia since Roman times.

Historical Significance

The Banya Bashi Mosque was commissioned by Mullah Efendi Kadı Seyfullah in memory of his late wife, and it has since been referred to in older texts as the Molla Efendi Mosque or Kadı Seyfullah Mosque. The mosque's location is steeped in history, situated near a thermal spring that has been utilized for public baths since at least the 16th century. The original Turkish bath adjacent to the mosque has long since fallen into disrepair, but the name Banya Bashi, or Many Baths, remains a nod to this past.

During the 17th century, the famed traveler Evliya Çelebi noted that Sofia was home to 53 mosques. Over time, this number fluctuated, reaching over 100 at one point. However, by the end of the Ottoman rule, only 50 to 84 mosques remained, and today, the Banya Bashi Mosque is one of just five surviving mosques in Sofia, and the only one still in use for worship.

The mosque has withstood numerous challenges over the centuries, including a significant earthquake in 1858 that toppled 19 of Sofia's 24 minarets. Despite this, the Banya Bashi Mosque has remained intact, preserving its original form and continuing to serve the city's Muslim community.

Architectural Marvel

The Banya Bashi Mosque is a prime example of 16th-century Ottoman architecture, designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan, who also built the famous Selimiye Mosque in Edirne. The mosque's main structure is a square building topped with a large central dome, which measures 15 meters in diameter. This dome is covered in lead plates, giving it a distinctive appearance.

The mosque's exterior is characterized by alternating layers of hewn stone and red bricks, creating a striking visual effect. Small turrets at the corners of the roof serve as support structures, adding to the mosque's architectural charm. The minaret, a slender and elegant structure, rises from the west corner of the mosque, pointing towards the sky.

Inside, the mosque's walls and arches are adorned with intricate stonework. The prayer hall is spacious, with white and blue decorations and Arabic calligraphy featuring verses from the Quran. The mosque adheres to the Islamic prohibition on depicting living beings, so the walls are adorned with beautiful calligraphy and geometric patterns instead.

The mosque also features a separate upper floor for women, as is customary in many mosques. The imam delivers sermons from a raised pulpit, known as a minbar, and the mosque can accommodate up to 700 worshippers during Friday prayers and nearly 1,200 during major religious holidays.

Visiting Today

While the Banya Bashi Mosque is not officially open for tourist visits, visitors are welcome to explore the mosque outside of the five daily prayer times. Women are required to wear appropriate clothing and a headscarf, which is provided at the entrance. The mosque's serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in Sofia's cultural and historical heritage.

The call to prayer, or adhan, is broadcast from the mosque's minaret five times a day, although the first and last calls are omitted for noise control reasons. The adhan is performed in Arabic, and while it can be heard from the mosque, it blends into the city's ambient sounds, respecting both the Muslim and non-Muslim communities.

Preservation and Renovation

The Banya Bashi Mosque has undergone several renovations over the centuries, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Significant restoration efforts were made in the 1920s with the financial support of the Turkish ambassador to Bulgaria, Fethi Okyar. Further renovations have been funded by Turkish and Arab waqfs (charitable endowments), including the installation of underfloor heating.

Declared a cultural monument, the mosque's interior and exterior cannot be altered, preserving its historical and architectural integrity. This status ensures that the Banya Bashi Mosque remains a vital part of Sofia's cultural landscape, offering a glimpse into the city's Ottoman past and its enduring legacy.

In conclusion, the Banya Bashi Mosque is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of Sofia's diverse history and architectural brilliance. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable mosque provides a unique window into the rich cultural tapestry of Bulgaria's capital.