Nestled in the heart of old Antalya (the district known as Kaleiçi), the Yivli Minare Camii is one of Turkey’s striking historical treasures. Built in the 13th century during the Seljuk era, the mosque shares its name with the iconic fluted minaret (“yivli” meaning fluted or grooved) that rises above the city skyline. The fluted brick minaret stands on a square stone base, decorated with turquoise and dark‑blue tiles; it stretches to approximately 38 metres in height and features eight fluted segments and an internal staircase of about 90 steps. Inside, the prayer hall is covered by six domes, an unusually early example of a multi‑domed mosque structure in Anatolia. For holiday‑makers in Turkey’s Antalya region, visiting the Yivli Minare Camii offers a tangible connection to the people and artistry of the Seljuks, set amid the winding alleys of the old town, just a short stroll from the waterfront.
Antalya - Türkiye
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Antalya - Türkiye
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Antalya - Türkiye
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Antalya - Türkiye
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Yivliminare Cami features an impressive eight-fluted minaret constructed from cut stone and brick, adorned with elegant glazed tile decorations. The mosque’s prayer hall is supported by twelve columns and topped with six domes, incorporating reused capitals believed to have originated from Roman or Byzantine structures. This architectural blend highlights the mosque’s historical significance, making it not only a functioning place of worship but also a major tourist landmark. Its iconic minaret has become one of Antalya’s most recognizable symbols. Visitors are generally welcome to explore the mosque, but as with many mosques in Turkey, modest clothing is expected, and non-Muslim guests should plan their visits outside of prayer times.
Visitors to Yivliminare Cami should be mindful that it remains an active place of worship, so modest attire is required—shoulders and knees should be covered, and women may choose to carry a headscarf out of respect. It is best to avoid the main prayer times, particularly Friday midday, when the prayer hall may be closed or less accessible to tourists; outside these times, you can explore more freely. Photography is generally allowed, especially of the minaret’s exterior, but care should be taken not to disturb worshippers. Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall, with designated areas provided for storage. As one of Antalya’s most visited landmarks, the mosque can be busy, particularly in summer; for a quieter experience, early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal. Yivliminare Cami is part of a larger complex, the Yivli Minare Külliyesi, which includes a medrese, tombs, and a historic hamam, and some areas may be under conservation, so visitors should stay within permitted zones to help preserve this cultural heritage.
Yivliminare Cami is easily accessible from various parts of Antalya. If you’re staying in or near Kaleiçi or the city center, the mosque is within walking distance, and its iconic minaret can be seen from many vantage points along the old town streets. Public transport options include buses and the light-rail (Antray); for example, routes such as UC 32, KC 34, or KL 08 can drop you at Cumhuriyet Meydanı, from where it’s a short walk into Kaleiçi. For those arriving by car or taxi, the mosque’s address can be used for navigation, but note that the old town has narrow streets and limited parking, so it may be best to park nearby and walk in. From Antalya Airport, visitors can take a shuttle or taxi to the city center and then continue on foot or via local bus/tram to reach Kaleiçi. Overall, Yivliminare Cami’s central location makes it an easy and convenient half-day stop during your Antalya holiday.
The best times to visit Yivliminare Cami are early in the morning, just after opening, when temperatures are cooler, the light on the minaret is softer, and crowds are minimal—perfect for photography. Late afternoon, just before sunset, also provides beautiful lighting for pictures and a more relaxed experience. During the high summer months (June–August), Antalya can be hot and busy, so visiting before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. is recommended for comfort. In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, the weather is milder, and there are fewer tourists. As an active mosque, some areas may be restricted during major prayer times, so plan accordingly and follow local signage. Additionally, the mosque complex, the Yivli Minare Külliyesi, occasionally hosts restoration work or events, so checking ahead through your hotel or the local tourism office can help ensure a smooth visit, especially if you want to explore or photograph in detail.