Gökmedrese Mosque, located in central Amasya, is a Seljuk monument built in 1267 by Seyfeddin Torumtay. Known for its enclosed complex structure comprising a mosque, madrasa, and tomb, entry to the mosque section is free.
Woven into the historical fabric of Amasya, Gökmedrese Mosque is one of the rare Seljuk structures standing since the second half of the 13th century. Taking its name from the turquoise and cyan tiles decorating the conical roof of its tomb, the structure was designed as an enclosed complex (külliye) combining a mosque, madrasa, and tomb under a single roof. This dual-functional architectural approach clearly sets it apart from similar buildings in Anatolia.
Guide's Note
Located on the south bank of the Yeşilırmak River in Amasya city center, Gökmedrese Mosque is part of a complex built in 1267 by the Seljuk emir Seyfeddin Torumtay. Comprising a mosque, madrasa, and tomb, the structure stands out as an important example of Anatolian Seljuk architecture in Amasya. The blue glazed bricks of the octagonal tomb on the corner give the structure its name.
Visitors particularly admire the stonework on the entrance portal and windows. It is noted that after its restoration, the interior has also gained a very good appearance. The atmosphere offered by the building as both a place of worship and a historic monument is received positively by visitors. Some visitors emphasize that compared to modern structures, the artistic value of such historic monuments remains striking.
There is no negative feedback regarding the venue during this period; however, one visitor pointed out a lack of information regarding some inscriptions and spolia stones in the structure:
- Lack of information: There is a Middle Greek inscription on the spolia stone facing the street on the tomb; while the mosque structure features a brief Persian or Arabic inscription. There is no public information available regarding the meaning of these inscriptions.
What is Gökmedrese Mosque?
Gökmedrese Mosque was built in 1267 by the Governor of Amasya of the period, Seyfeddin Torumtay, and is one of the most prominent representatives of Anatolian Seljuk architecture in Amasya. Designed as an enclosed complex (külliye) housing a mosque, madrasa, and tomb under one roof, this feature is the most distinctive aspect setting it apart from other structures in the region.
The name of the structure comes from the turquoise and sky-blue tiles covering the cone of its tomb. Evoking the sky in Turkish ('gök'), this color gave the building both a poetic name and a visual identity. Giving its name to the neighborhood where it stands, Gökmedrese holds an important place in Amasya's historic skyline.
Standing out with its inverse T-plan design and square-plan worship space, the mosque greets visitors with a deep recessed portal and surrounding geometric stone carvings. Continuing to serve uninterrupted for over 750 years, the structure holds the title of being one of Amasya's oldest mosques.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Gökmedrese Mosque are the spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) months. During these seasons, temperatures remain mild, and Amasya's historic center offers a calmer atmosphere.
Even though tourist crowds increase during summer, visiting early in the morning offers a chance to explore the site almost privately. The period after the morning prayer until midday is ideal for observing the effect of sunlight on the structure and strolling around peacefully.
In winter, Amasya can be cold and rainy; however, the surrounding view of Gökmedrese along with the snow-covered Pontic Rock Tombs takes on a completely different beauty.
How to Get There?
Gökmedrese Mosque is located on Mustafa Kemal Paşa Avenue in Amasya city center. It can be easily reached on foot from the historic bazaar area on the north bank of the Yeşilırmak River.
It is possible to travel from Amasya bus terminal to the city center by minibus or taxi. Since vehicular traffic is restricted in the city's historic district, the most practical way to get around is walking. Using the Amasya Museum as a reference point, Gökmedrese Mosque is only 300 meters away.
The nearest airport to Amasya is Merzifon Airport, which is about a 30–40 minute drive to the city center. Bus connections from Samsun or Ankara are frequent and comfortable.
Photography Spots
Gökmedrese Mosque is one of Amasya's most photogenic historic structures. The area in front of the main portal offers impressive shots from every angle thanks to its geometric stone carving and deep recess. A macro or standard lens is sufficient to capture the intricate decorative details around the doorway.
The turquoise tiles decorating the tomb's conical roof create a mesmerizing color harmony with the sky, especially on bright sunny days. Stepping back a few paces on the street allows you to frame the entire building with a wide-angle lens.
Inside, the geometric motifs and the area surrounding the mihrab offer rich subjects for detail photography. When taking photos indoors, please be mindful of prayer times and show respect to worshippers.
Where to Eat Nearby?
The historic center surrounding Gökmedrese Mosque is an excellent starting point to discover Amasya's regional cuisine. At neighboring restaurants, Amasya's famous apple products—such as apple Turkish delight, apple tea, and apple cider vinegar—are absolute must-tries.
In small local eateries near the historic bazaar, you can sample local dishes such as tarhana soup, keşkek (wheat & meat stew), and tandır kebab at reasonable prices. Cafes along the Yeşilırmak River offer pleasant spots to take a break and sip tea with a river view.
Historic Center Itinerary Suggestion
Gökmedrese Mosque forms a natural part of a walking route through Amasya's historic center. Starting early in the morning, you can first visit the Pontic Rock Tombs and then stroll along the Yeşilırmak River to reach Gökmedrese.
From here, reaching the Amasya Museum takes only a few minutes. In the afternoon, you can complete a tour that includes the Sultan Bayezid II Mosque, Hazeranlar Mansion, and the Ferhat and Şirin Lovers Museum. As all these points are within walking distance of each other, there is no need to drive.
Ending your day with dinner along the banks of the Yeşilırmak River is one of the finest ways to round off your Amasya experience.
Things to Know Before You Visit
Gökmedrese Mosque is an active place of worship. Please ensure shoulders and knees are covered during your visit; headscarves and robes are usually available at the entrance. Keep in mind that access to the interior may be limited during prayer times.
Certain sections of the building have undergone restoration, so specific areas might be closed during your visit. As access conditions to the madrasa and tomb sections can vary, obtaining up-to-date information on-site is the best approach.
Navigating with a wheelchair or stroller can be difficult due to uneven cobblestones and door thresholds nearby; wearing comfortable, flat shoes is recommended.
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