The Gogceli Mosque represents a beautiful example of Anatolian wooden architecture
Kistang - If you have the opportunity to visit Turkey, make sure to visit the Gogceli Mosque in the province of Samsun. This mosque, established in 1206 AD, has a fascinating uniqueness—it has been standing tall for over 8 centuries without using a single nail as a fastener.
The Gogceli Mosque represents a beautiful example of Anatolian wooden architecture. The entire structure of the mosque was built without nails, yet it has served as a place of worship for Muslims for 811 years.
Over the past eight centuries, the Gogceli Mosque has withstood various earthquakes without any damage or collapse. Its success lies in its earthquake-resistant floor design, ensuring the mosque remains sturdy and standing to this day.
The mosque's beauty is enhanced by the motifs on its interior walls, maintaining their natural paint color without fading over the years.
According to the Imam of the Gogceli Mosque, Ahmet Ozkose, there are two versions of the origin story. The first mentions that the mosque was built during the Seljuk period after Islam entered Anatolia, following the Battle of Manzikert. However, there is another account stating that the mosque was erected by a Muslim commander and his troops to quell the resistance of various small and large kingdoms opposing the Islamization of the region.
In 1990, scientists tested the age of the mosque by taking wood samples. The results confirmed that the Gogceli Mosque is indeed eight centuries old. Each year, the mosque is still actively used for worship by 300 worshippers and attracts tourists eager to witness this unparalleled wooden architectural wonder.
The locals' greatest hope is that the Gogceli Mosque continues to stand strong and enchant future generations, preserving its history as the oldest wooden mosque and a captivating marvel in Turkey.
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