Western Thrace Turks strive to preserve Ottoman Heritage in Greece
In an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Mustafa Trampa, the Elected Mufti of Xanthi, emphasized the significance of protecting Ottoman monuments in Greece and discussed how these structures have been utilized over time.
Trampa highlighted that "the Ottomans built structures that resonated with the soul of the cities, such as mosques, madrasas, fountains, and caravanserais. These were not just buildings; they were symbols that strengthened the social and spiritual fabric of the city." He pointed out that these structures formed the urban landscape according to Ottoman urbanization philosophy but have often been misused or demolished by the Greek government in the post-Ottoman period.
"Some Ottoman mosques in Greece have been converted into bars, cafes, museums, or exhibition halls, and even churches. This could be seen as an attempt to erase Ottoman traces," Trampa stated, noting the Greek authorities' actions aimed at erasing memories of the Ottoman period and Turkish influence in the region.
Trampa also recalled how the Ottomans showed respect for the heritage of previous civilizations in the lands they conquered: "The Ottomans restored churches from the Byzantine era for Christians to use and did the same for Jewish synagogues. However, today, Ottoman mosques and monuments in Greece are either destroyed or repurposed for other uses."
He further pointed out that these practices not only tarnish the shared history between the two nations but also continue to harm bilateral relations.
While Turkey continues to restore Christian monuments, Trampa called for reciprocal respect. He cited an example from İzmir, where a church in Çeşme was restored, and the Patriarch Bartholomew held a service there. "We expect the same. Why aren’t mosques on the island of Chios reopened for worship?" he asked, urging for more respect towards Ottoman heritage in Greece under the principle of reciprocity.
Trampa also drew attention to the Ottoman-era structures in Western Thrace, which face similar neglect. "We have repeatedly requested to hold prayers and organize religious events in the surviving Ottoman mosques, but so far, our requests have not been met positively," he said.
He criticized the Greek government's labeling of Ottoman monuments as "Muslim heritage" rather than "Turkish heritage," interpreting it as a deliberate attempt to erase the legacy of the Ottomans and Turks in the region.
The Ottoman Legacy Lives On in Books
Şükriye Mehmet, a board member of the Western Thrace Minority Higher Education Association, discussed her work in preserving Ottoman heritage in the region. She authored a book titled Ottoman Turkish Monuments in Komotini and Surrounding Areas four years ago to introduce young people and tourists to the Ottoman legacy.
In her book, she details important landmarks such as the Komotini Clock Tower, which was built in 1885 during the reign of Sultan Abdulhamid II and has become a symbol of the city. She also mentioned the Houranli Mosque and other Ottoman-era structures that form an integral part of the city’s cultural identity.
Mehmet emphasized the need to protect these monuments as part of both the local and world heritage, ensuring they are preserved for future generations. Through educational talks and workshops, the association introduces high school students to these landmarks, fostering a sense of belonging to the region through its rich history.
"This is not just about preserving cultural heritage," Mehmet said. "These monuments are also part of the world's heritage, and we must protect them."
— AA
