Banya Bashi Mosque

Banya Bashi Mosque was constructed in Sofia in 1576 on the site of the ancient baths. Bulgarian word for baths is "banya" thus it gave this mosque its name. It was designed by the famous architect Mimar Haji Sinani. Once there were 70 mosques in Sofia, but today the mosque is the only one still functioning.

Banya Bashi Mosque is shaped like a cube and crowned by a large dome with a tall minaret standing next to it. The interior of the mosque is decorated with colourful ornaments and sayings from the Koran or Quran. Muslims are not allowed to portray animals or humans so you will not see their depictions here. There are also the ruins of a hammam next door. The muezzin calls the worshippers to prayer 5 times a day every day with a loudspeaker on the minaret.

Banya Bashi Mosque is no entrance fee. The present state of the mosque gives it the possibility of praying with about 700 Muslims on Friday days. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times, including women, if modestly dressed. You should remember to take your shoes off when you enter. You can take photos inside the Banya Bashi Mosque, although it is always best to ask as there may be someone praying at the time of your visit.

Location: Sofia Center, Sofia, Bulgaria

Website: http://www.sofia-guide.com/attraction/banya-bashi-mosque-sofia/

Tel: 359 2 981 6001

Hour: 6:00 AM - 20:00 PM

Google Rating: 4.4/5