Explore a Mystery: Ş. a k i r i n M o s q u e - a modern apology of Islamic architecture By Nafisakhon Bosimova Istanbul, a fairytale in the Middle East, is rightfully called the city of mosques. According to official figures, at the beginning of 2014, there were 3,190 active mosques in Istanbul. Under the city’s architectural plans, the number of mosques in Istanbul will reach 3250. Since Istanbul is home to many ancient mosques, modern Islamic architecture can hardly be considered a city attraction. However, Şakirin Mosque (pronounced Shakirin Mosque) is one of the pleasant exceptions. Mosques in Turkey usually follow the Byzantine or the Ottoman architectural design. However, the Şakirin Mosque is a modern interpretation of what Islamic architecture could be. Şakirin Mosque (Şakirin Camii) is the most original Mosque in Turkey and the world. It is also one of the most carbon-neutral Mosques in Turkey. Its inauguration was in May 2009 in one of the most religious districts of Istanbul - Üsküdar. The Şakirin Mosque (Şakirin Camii) was built in memory of Ibrahim and Semiha Shakir by their children Gazi, Ghada, and Gassan, who live in London. The Mosque’s name is a reflection of the surname, but it also has a different meaning. If you translate the word Shakirin, the literal meaning is “those who are thankful (to Allah swt)” in Arabic. The construction lasted for four to five years, and finally, in 2009, the Şakirin Mosque opened its hospitable doors to visitors. The architecture of the building is truly exclusive! Nevertheless, it has all the features inherent in Islamic architecture: courtyard, domes, minarets.
“
According to official figures, at the beginning of 2014, there were 3,190 active mosques in Istanbul.
6
”
