Mosque of Suleiman

The Mosque of Suleiman stands at the head of Socrates Street in the Old Town of Rhodes, in the South Aegean region of Greece, and is one of the most recognisable Ottoman buildings in the city. The original mosque was built in 1522 to commemorate the conquest of Rhodes by Suleiman the Magnificent, and the present building dates from a reconstruction in 1808. Its rose-pink facade, tall minaret, domed prayer hall and arched portico contrast with the grey stone of the Knights' architecture around it. A short flight of steps leads to a small paved forecourt, which gives a good vantage point for photographs of the minaret against the sky. Visitors normally view the exterior only, since the interior is usually closed, although it has occasionally been opened for exhibitions or restoration work. The mosque has been closed to worship for many years, but it remains an important symbol of the Ottoman period in the city, which lasted until 1912. A short visit of about 15 minutes is enough to see the exterior and portico, and many travellers pass it on their way along Socrates Street to the shops and cafes. Beyond the mosque, the surrounding lanes include the Ibrahim Pasha Mosque and Ottoman bathhouse in other parts of the Old Town. The area is free to enter and open all day, and the soft light of early morning or evening makes the pink walls glow. Midday brings dense crowds on Socrates Street, particularly on cruise ship days, so photography is easier at quieter times. Visitors should be respectful of the building and dress modestly.