Mosque of the Martyrs, in Baku

Discover the Historic Mosque of the Martyrs in Baku

Baku, the vibrant capital city of Azerbaijan, is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. One of the must-visit attractions in Baku is the Mosque of the Martyrs, also known as the Turkish Mosque. Situated near the Martyrs' Lane, this mosque holds great historical significance and offers a glimpse into the country's past.

Historical Significance and Architecture

The Mosque of the Martyrs was built in the early 1990s with the assistance of the Turkish government. It stands as a memorial dedicated to the Ottoman soldiers who lost their lives during World War I in Azerbaijan. These soldiers fought alongside Azerbaijani forces against the Bolsheviks, Armenian Dashnaks, and Baku Soviets in the Battle of Baku in 1918.

Designed by Turkish architects Hüseyin Bütüner and Hilmi Güner, the mosque features a unique architectural style. Its two-story pyramidal frustum structure with square bases and truncated corners gives it an octagonal frustum appearance. The exterior is covered in red granite, adorned with star and crescent figures made of pure white marble, reminiscent of the Turkish national flag.

Things to Do and See

Visiting the Mosque of the Martyrs offers a chance to explore both its historical significance and architectural beauty. Take a stroll through the Martyrs' Lane, where an alley with name plates of the fallen soldiers leads to the mosque. The surrounding walls display the names of the martyrs, along with their military rank, hometown, and place of death.

While the mosque is currently closed for public use, its exterior remains an impressive sight to behold. Marvel at the intricate details of the star and crescent figures, and admire the craftsmanship of the red granite structure. The Turkish and Azerbaijani flags waving on the flagpoles behind the monument add a patriotic touch to the surroundings.

When to Visit

Although the Mosque of the Martyrs is not open for regular visits, it is still worth including in your itinerary when exploring Baku. The best time to visit is during the day when you can fully appreciate the architectural features and pay homage to the fallen soldiers.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the Mosque of the Martyrs was inaugurated in the presence of Turkish President Süleyman Demirel and Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev on September 15, 1999? This prestigious ceremony marked the significance of the mosque as a symbol of friendship and solidarity between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Explore the Mosque of the Martyrs in Baku

The Mosque of the Martyrs, also known as the Turkish Mosque, is a historical gem in Baku, Azerbaijan. Its unique architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction for travelers interested in the country's past. While the mosque is currently closed for public use, its exterior still stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the Ottoman soldiers. So, make sure to include the Mosque of the Martyrs in your Baku itinerary and immerse yourself in its rich history and architectural beauty.