Şakirin Mosque

Şakirin Mosque is a contemporary place of worship in Üsküdar, on Istanbul’s Asian side, near Karacaahmet Cemetery. Opened in 2009, it pairs a modern exterior with an interior by architect Zeynep Fadıllıoğlu. Inside, look for the turquoise-and-gold mihrab and the large glass chandelier shaped like a falling drop. Natural light reaches the prayer hall through its glass walls, adding to the calm feel of the space. It is a rewarding stop if you want to see a modern interpretation of Turkish mosque design.

The mosque and its designers

Şakirin Mosque opened in 2009 and was built by the Şakirin family. Its name comes from an Arabic word meaning “grateful.” The exterior design is by Hüsrev Tayla, while Zeynep Fadıllıoğlu designed the interior. The mosque is often associated with Fadıllıoğlu’s role as a woman designing a mosque in modern Turkey, but the two designers’ contributions are distinct.

The building has two minarets, each 35 metres high. Glass surrounds three sides of the mosque, bringing daylight into the interior. Its contemporary approach sets it apart from Istanbul’s older mosques while retaining references to Islamic design traditions.

Details inside

The mihrab, the niche indicating the direction of prayer, is finished in turquoise and gold. Above the prayer hall, a large glass chandelier takes the form of a falling drop. Its design suggests light descending over worshippers. Fadıllıoğlu also shaped the mosque’s lighting and courtyard water element, alongside details such as the bronze-and-glass doors.

The minbar and calligraphy reinterpret Seljuk Turkish traditions. Together with the mihrab, they give the interior a distinct visual language. Take time to look at these details, and keep the space quiet and respectful while people are at prayer.