Historic mosques in Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa reopen for Mevlid Kandili

Turkey is observing Mevlid Kandili with religious programs across the country, including rose distributions in Denizli and special services in major cities like Ankara and Istanbul.

In the earthquake-affected regions, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced the reopening of two historic mosques following extensive restoration. The Bostancı Mosque in Gaziantep and the Mahmut Paşa Mosque in Şanlıurfa, both damaged during the February 6, 2023, earthquakes, will reopen for worship during the noon prayer on Mevlid Kandili.

Restoration efforts for the 16th-century Bostancı Mosque included rebuilding its minaret to its original form, reinforcing vaults, and installing stainless steel tension rods. The Mahmut Paşa Mosque underwent structural strengthening using lightweight pumice and lead roofing. Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that the number of restored foundation works in the earthquake zone has now reached 276. Additionally, '1001 hatim prayers' are being held in historic mosques across 81 provinces to honor the founders of these endowments.