The Story of the Mosque.. 'Hamidiya' in Turkey Built by Abdul Hamid II and Designed Inside with 'Clouds and Fruits'
The Hamidiya Mosque in Turkey, rebuilt in 2018, features a stunning interior inspired by a Quranic verse from Surah Al-Baqarah.
The Hamidiya Mosque, located in Qırşehir, Turkey, has a rich history as it was originally built in 1910 during the reign of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. After its destruction and subsequent rebuilding in 2018, the mosque’s designers sought to attract visitors and inspire a spiritual atmosphere. They drew inspiration from verse 22 of Surah Al-Baqarah, which reflects God's provision of sustenance and the beauty of creation, leading to an artistic vision that embodies these themes.
The interior design of the mosque features clouds painted on the ceiling to emulate the sky, with lights arranged to resemble clusters of grapes hanging down. The walls are adorned with illustrations of trees, while the flooring is covered with green carpet resembling grass, all intended to create a serene and inviting environment for worshippers. This creative approach to the mosque's aesthetics serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of faith, nature, and community.
By leveraging a foundational religious text, the architects and community advocates have revitalized not just a physical space but also the spiritual significance of the Hamidiya Mosque, ensuring it remains a central part of the community’s cultural heritage. This restoration signifies an ongoing appreciation for historical architecture while fostering a modern interpretation that resonates with contemporary worshippers.