The largest mosque in Northern Cyprus — Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque

Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque — the largest mosque ever built in Northern Cyprus. It was opened on January 12, 2024, can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at the same time, and is the most extensive religious building in terms of area and architectural design.

• Key Facts About the Mosque
• Architecture and Dimensions
• Domes, Minarets, and Interior Decoration
• Project and Construction
• Location of the Mosque
• Visiting the Mosque
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Facts About Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque

The Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque is officially recognized as the largest mosque in Northern Cyprus. It is built in the Ottoman architectural style and has become one of the region's most significant landmarks.

Architecture and Dimensions

The mosque building is designed in the classical Ottoman style and features monumental proportions. The main dome reaches a height of 36.8 meters with a diameter of 23.8 meters. The central dome is surrounded by 61 smaller domes, creating a complex and symmetrical composition.

The main part of the mosque contains 27 domes and 9 semi-domes. The balcony section houses another 26 domes, highlighting the multi-level architecture of the building.

Domes, Minarets, and Interior Decoration

The mosque has six minarets. Four of them reach a height of 76.2 meters and each is equipped with three balconies. The other two minarets are 56.45 meters high and have two balconies each.

All domes and minarets are fully cast in aluminum. The largest element measures 7 meters in length. The exterior surfaces are finished with golden stainless steel and chrome-plated elements.

The mosque’s interior includes 47 chandeliers and 104 stained glass windows. All domes and interiors are hand-painted using oil painting techniques, emphasizing the artistic value of the complex.

Project and Construction

The design and artistic decoration of the mosque were carried out by Near East University. The interior painting work was done by skilled craftsmen as part of a large-scale project that lasted 10 years.

The project was implemented under the auspices of the Günsel family and with active support from the university, which traditionally places great emphasis on the development of art and architecture.

Based on surveys and engineering calculations, Turkish Cypriots confirmed the use of modern and durable materials, allowing for the creation of a stable and visually impressive structure.

Location of the Mosque

The Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque is located on the campus of Near East University in Northern Cyprus.

Visiting the Mosque

The mosque functions as an active place of worship. Visits are possible outside prayer times, provided that standard rules are followed: modest clothing, respectful behavior, and adherence to staff instructions.

For tourists and residents of Northern Cyprus, the mosque is of interest not only as a religious site but also as an architectural landmark of the modern period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Dr. Suat Günsel Mosque considered the largest in Northern Cyprus?

It has the largest complex area — 30,000 m², accommodates up to 10,000 worshippers simultaneously, and surpasses other regional mosques in the number of domes and minarets.

How many minarets does the mosque have?

The mosque has six minarets, making it one of the few mosques with this number of minarets not only in Northern Cyprus but in the region as a whole.

When was the mosque construction completed?

Construction lasted about 10 years and was officially completed in time for the opening on January 12, 2024.

Can tourists visit the mosque?

Yes, visits are allowed outside prayer times, provided that rules of conduct and dress code are observed.

Where exactly is the mosque located?

The mosque is located on the grounds of Near East University.