Selimiye Mosque owl motif reflects ancient Turkish art

Mehmet Ali Esmer, General Manager of the Sinan and Selimiye Mosque Foundation, has highlighted the significance of an owl motif found within the mukarnas of the Selimiye Mosque's main entrance. Esmer stated that the motif is a deliberate architectural choice rather than a coincidence, representing wisdom, alertness, and protection in ancient Turkish art.

Esmer noted that the owl motif predates the work of Mimar Sinan, appearing in Central Asian tombs and traditional carpets. He explained that Sinan refined and perfected this existing architectural tradition within the Selimiye Mosque, integrating historical knowledge and cultural symbolism into his structural designs.