Akdoğan Masjid is a small 15th-century mosque located next to the clock tower in Sivrihisar, reflecting Seljuk-era woodwork with its wooden lantern roof ceiling; admission is free.
Akdoğan Masjid is a small structure standing right behind the clock tower in Sivrihisar's Kılıç Neighborhood. Historical sources differ on its precise dating: cultural inventory records point to the 15th century and Selçuk Bey, father of Timurtaşpaşazade Umur Bey. Some local sources, however, date the structure back to 1174, during the Seljuk period. Due to the absence of a foundation inscription, the exact date remains uncertain, but in either case, it is considered one of the oldest masjids in Anatolia.
The most striking feature of the masjid is its ceiling. Two-thirds of the roof is built using a lantern roof technique ('tüteklikli örtü'), featuring exposed reeds behind beams and a completely wooden ceiling. Visitors often compare this roof craftsmanship to that of the Sivrihisar Grand Mosque, noting that it reflects the same woodworking mastery on a smaller scale. The floor is covered with regional kilims, while the walls feature plain plasterwork—offering a quiet simplicity shaped by time rather than grandeur.
The building was recently restored, taking on a well-kept appearance where stone and wood harmonize nicely. Some visitors note that the door is often locked, but asking local shopkeepers or residents nearby usually grants access inside. Most travelers visiting Sivrihisar spend a few minutes here while exploring the clock tower.
Best Time to Visit
Since the masjid is a small indoor space, the season is not a major factor. For overall exploration of Sivrihisar, spring and autumn months are more comfortable, as midday heat in Central Anatolia can be tiring during summer walks. Since the door is usually locked, your chances of finding it open are higher during business hours when local shopkeepers are around.
How to Get There
It takes about 1 hour by bus from central Eskişehir to Sivrihisar, with a short walk from the town bus station to the center. The masjid is located right behind the town's iconic clock tower. Once you locate the tower, finding the masjid is straightforward. If driving your own vehicle, parking in central Sivrihisar is generally hassle-free.
Exploring Sivrihisar
Akdoğan Masjid is best visited as a stop on a broader Sivrihisar tour rather than a standalone destination. Within the same area, the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), Alemşah Tomb, Kılıç Masjid Minaret, and historic Sivrihisar houses are all within walking distance of each other. You can easily fit these stops into a half-day stroll.
How Much Time to Allocate
Spending 15–20 minutes is sufficient for the masjid itself. If you manage to get inside, observing the ceiling detail will take just a few extra minutes. If planned alongside other historical sites in Sivrihisar, a half-day trip is ideal, while 2–3 hours is enough for a center-only walk.
Suggested Itinerary
A sensible walking route starts at the clock tower, moves to Akdoğan Masjid, and continues to the Grand Mosque and Alemşah Tomb. In Sivrihisar, the hometown of Nasreddin Hodja, you can also add the Nasreddin Hodja House to this itinerary. All these stops are close to the center and require no vehicle.
Things to Keep in Mind
A point frequently highlighted in visitor reviews is that the masjid is kept locked most of the time. Those wishing to see the interior have managed to enter by asking nearby shopkeepers or locals for help, as there are no guaranteed opening hours. Even if you cannot step inside, admiring the stone-and-wood details on the exterior is still worthwhile.
Photo Spots
You can capture the exterior together with the clock tower in one frame. If you manage to enter, the reed-and-beam textured ceiling is the masjid's most unique photo subject. Due to low natural light inside, a flash or phone light may be needed.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com and may not be copied without permission.
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