The restoration of Selimiye Mosque, overseen by the General Directorate of Foundations since November 2021, is set to be finalized by 2025, as announced by officials. While restoration efforts progress under the watchful eye of a scientific board, the mosque remains open for worship and visits. 
The meticulous restoration work aims to preserve the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monument for future generations. Every aspect of the structure is being carefully attended to, staying true to its original design.
Key milestones have been achieved, including lead renovation and stone repair across the mosque. Three out of the four minarets, iconic landmarks visible from various points in the city, have been fully restored, with the final minaret nearing completion. Additionally, the majestic 31-meter diameter dome, towering 43 meters above the ground, has undergone thorough restoration, including the application of gold leaf to its 29-piece realm. The use of Horasan mortar, replacing previously damaging cement, has significantly advanced the facade repair process.
Further enhancements include the renewal of the mosque's windows to match the original design, as well as ongoing restoration of interior elements such as pencil works, wooden doors, and shutters.
According to Kemal Soytürk, Director of Edirne Culture and Tourism, the restoration is conducted with great care and attention to detail. Soytürk emphasizes the importance of preserving Selimiye Mosque as a cultural treasure and highlights the ongoing scientific and academic studies accompanying the restoration process.
The completion of restoration works is eagerly awaited, with expectations for increased tourism once the project is finalized. Soytürk notes that even during the restoration phase, the mosque continues to attract visitors, underscoring its significance as a tourist destination for the city.
The meticulous restoration work aims to preserve the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monument for future generations. Every aspect of the structure is being carefully attended to, staying true to its original design.
Key milestones have been achieved, including lead renovation and stone repair across the mosque. Three out of the four minarets, iconic landmarks visible from various points in the city, have been fully restored, with the final minaret nearing completion. Additionally, the majestic 31-meter diameter dome, towering 43 meters above the ground, has undergone thorough restoration, including the application of gold leaf to its 29-piece realm. The use of Horasan mortar, replacing previously damaging cement, has significantly advanced the facade repair process.
Further enhancements include the renewal of the mosque's windows to match the original design, as well as ongoing restoration of interior elements such as pencil works, wooden doors, and shutters.
According to Kemal Soytürk, Director of Edirne Culture and Tourism, the restoration is conducted with great care and attention to detail. Soytürk emphasizes the importance of preserving Selimiye Mosque as a cultural treasure and highlights the ongoing scientific and academic studies accompanying the restoration process.
The completion of restoration works is eagerly awaited, with expectations for increased tourism once the project is finalized. Soytürk notes that even during the restoration phase, the mosque continues to attract visitors, underscoring its significance as a tourist destination for the city.