Historic Beyazıt Mosque in Dimetoka set to reopen in November
The historic Beyazıt Mosque in Didymoteicho (Dimetoka), in Greece’s Evros region, is expected to reopen to visitors in November 2026, following a major restoration project to repair damage caused by a devastating fire in March 2017.
The mosque, regarded as a significant example of early Ottoman architecture in Europe, is nearing the completion of restoration work aimed at preserving its historic structure and distinctive artistic features.
Construction of the mosque dates to the early 15th century. An inscription above its main entrance records its completion in March 1420, while another inscription dated 1421 associates the building with Sultan Mehmed I, also known as Çelebi Mehmed, and architect İvaz bin Bayezid.
A LANDMARK OF EARLY OTTOMAN ARCHITECTURE
Also known as the Beyazıt Mosque, the historic building is distinguished by its wooden roof, decorated ceiling, stone minaret and richly detailed interior.
Its artistic features include historic wall paintings, calligraphic inscriptions and a celestial-city depiction above the mihrab, the niche indicating the direction of prayer. These elements form an important part of the building’s architectural and cultural significance.
RESTORATION FOLLOWING THE 2017 FIRE
A fire on March 22, 2017, severely damaged the mosque’s historic wooden roof and caused extensive damage to its interior.
Restoration efforts gained momentum in 2022, with work focused on repairing the building while preserving its architectural character and historical features.
The project has a reported budget of approximately €15 million and is funded through the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility and Greece’s Ministry of Culture.
CULTURE MINISTER INSPECTED THE WORKS
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni visited the mosque on August 6 to review progress on the restoration. During the visit, she said the historic building was expected to be ready to welcome visitors by the end of 2026.
With the restoration nearing completion, the mosque is expected to reopen in November, restoring access to one of Didymoteicho’s most significant historic landmarks.
