The Hassan Jakovali Mosque is an unusual sight, squeezed in between two modern buildings in the middle of Pecs. Yet the mosque remains an active place of worship and a beautiful and fascinating spot to visit. Admire the ancient architecture, feel the peaceful atmosphere and see the interesting exhibition on display.
The mosque is considered the most intact Turkish mosque in all of Hungary, with its dome proudly towering high above the buildings below. It was built by Pasha Yakovali Hassan in the second half of the 16th century. Seek out the mosque as you wander down Rákóczi Street. It is located just outside of the walled town’s Szigeti gate.
As with all Islamic religious buildings, the mosque was built to face toward the holy city of Mecca. Despite its remarkable age, the building remains an important and active place of worship today. If you are in the area on a Friday, you will see people making their way toward the mosque to pray. During prayer, the building is off-limits to non-Muslims. Visit outside of prayer times, however, and you can experience the beauty of the interior.
The mosque has a square floor plan with ogee (double curved) windows. Notice the prayer mats lined up in front of the mihrab, or pulpit. The women’s section can be found on either side of the entrance, in partitioned podiums adorned in traditional religious carpets.
Be sure to visit the small exhibition on Ottoman history. Take the time to view the interesting displays of Turkish historical artifacts and objects of art. A must-see is the beautiful mirror room, where the floor tiles are dazzlingly reflected all around you.
Hassan Jakovali Mosque is open year round for those wishing to pray. For Muslims who want to worship here, there is no admission fee. If you simply wish to visit to admire the architecture and cultural relics, however, expect to pay to enter. Visit from Tuesday to Sunday, between April and October.
