Ulu Mosque The Adana Ulu Mosque, also known as Ramazanoglu Mosque, is a notable mosque in Adana, Turkey. Constructed in the 16th century, the mosque is part of a larger complex comprising a madrasah and mausoleum. Ramazanoğlu Halil Bey initiated the construction of the Ulu Mosque, which was later completed by his son and successor, Piri Mehmet Paşa, in 1541. The mosque held the distinction of being Adana's largest mosque for 450 years, until it was replaced by the Sabancı Merkez Camii in 2002. However, in 1998, the mosque suffered damage due to an earthquake. After 12 years of extensive renovations, the landmark mosque was fully restored in 2004. Today, it continues to stand as a testament to the area's rich architectural heritage. The Adana Ulu Mosque is an architectural masterpiece that combines elements of Mamluk, Seljuk, and Ottoman designs. It is interesting to note that the western entrance is older than the main building and displays a different style from that of Ramazanoğlu Halil Bey. The entrance features a conical stalactite roof that rises step by step, demonstrating Seljukid characteristics. During the early 16th century, the Ramadanids, a small emirate (beylik), built a small mosque that initially served their limited territory. However, as their territory expanded, they constructed a larger mosque adjacent to the existing one. The Ulu Mosque has an open plan with a rectangular floor area measuring 113 feet in length and 107 feet in width. It is accessible via large gates on the east and west sides of the courtyard, with a wooden roof covering the northern section. This extension serves as a prayer area supported on pillars, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for worshippers. The Adana Ulu Mosque is home to a wealth of exquisite decorations, including Iznik tiles that adorn the mihrab and qibla wall. These tiles were added after 1552 and add a stunning touch of beauty to the mosque's interior. The minaret, situated near the eastern entrance, boasts a covered balcony and draws inspiration from Mamluk architecture. The exterior of the minaret is made from two different colors of stone, providing a striking visual spectacle that can be seen from afar. The madrasah, located on the east, west, and south sides of a nearly square courtyard, is a remarkable feature of the mosque complex. The north side houses the main classroom, which is covered by two domes. The outer length of the madrasah, from east to west, measures 32.8 meters (108 feet), with simple yet elegant stonework on display throughout. A fountain, supported by eight columns that hold up a pyramidal roof, adds to the charm of the madrasah courtyard. However, an unrelated building has been placed next to it, somewhat detracting from the monumentality and symmetry of the area. The madrasah boasts a stunning portal niche, featuring beveled molding that adorns the pillars and keystone on both sides. The inscription's surrounding area is adorned with intricate patterns that form from intersecting threads, creating a design reminiscent of palmets (fan-shaped glyphs) and badges. On both the east and west walls, the second rectangular window is framed with geometrically patterned molding that includes checkers, six-armed stars, and flowers at their centers. The mausoleum of the Ramadanids, located within the mosque complex, features a towering dome that adds to the grandeur of the site. Inside, visitors can view the sarcophagi of Halil Bey and the sons of Piri Paşa, each adorned with beautiful tiles that add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the mausoleum.