A Silent Witness of History in Kars: Fethiye Mosque (Former Aleksandr Nevski Church)
In the heart of Kars, rising in all its grandeur from the city square, stands a unique structure. With its two minarets, dark basalt stones, and striking architecture, it immediately draws attention. This is not just any mosque—it’s a symbol of historical transformation: Fethiye Mosque, formerly known as the Aleksandr Nevski Church.
From Layers of History to the Present Day
Built in 1877 by the Russians during the Kars Oblast period, this structure was originally the Aleksandr Nevski Church. It bears the hallmarks of Baltic-Russian architecture: dark basalt stonework, round-arched windows, high vaulted ceilings, and symmetrical façade lines.
After Kars was incorporated into the Republic of Turkey in 1920, the building remained unused for a long time. In 1964, it was converted into a mosque and has since been known as Fethiye Mosque.
A Blend of Ottoman and Russian Aesthetics Inside
The mosque’s interior is equally captivating. The walls are painted in soft blue tones and adorned with classic Ottoman-style calligraphy. The intricately carved wooden pulpit, geometric chandeliers, and beautifully tiled mihrab reflect a strong Turkish-Islamic aesthetic. Meanwhile, the high ceilings and large arched windows still echo the building’s church origins—making it a true architectural hybrid.
Final Thoughts
Fethiye Mosque is more than just a place of worship; it’s a remarkable site that reflects the shifting fate of a nation, the evolving identity of a city, and the stories etched in stone. If you ever visit Kars, don’t miss the chance to see not only the mosque but also the layered history it silently embodies.
