Isa Bey Mosque
Isa Bey Mosque, situated on the outskirts of the Ayasuluk Hill and on the western slopes of Basilica of St. John, dates from the period of the Aydınoğulları, the Turkish emirate that ruled this region after the Seljuks. It was built for Isa Bey in 1375.
It is the oldest known example of Turkish mosques with a courtyard and Anatolian columned mosques. The edifice displays common Selcuk architectural elements in its decoration techniques and in the monumental portal.
One of the two minarets is totally destroyed. The columns inside are from ruins in Ephesus and the domes are ornamented by turquoise and blue Iznik tiles that will give you the eye-pleasure.
The Architecture of Isa Bey
Isa Bey Mosque was built in 1375 by the architect Ali of Damascus for Isa Bey of the Aydınoğulları, the Turkish emirate that ruled this part of the Aegean before the Ottomans. Its west facade, entirely of marble, with its carved window frames, its inscriptions and its tall portal, is one of the most beautiful of its time. Inside, the two domes of the prayer hall rest on great granite columns brought from the ruins of Ephesus and its baths.
The mosque is still a place of worship, so please dress modestly and plan your visit outside the prayer times. Women are asked to cover their heads.
Combine it with
It is only a short walk from the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis, and fits into a day at Ephesus. See our private Ephesus tour.
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