Things to Do at Kocatepe Mosque

Complete Guide to Kocatepe Mosque in Ankara

About Kocatepe Mosque

Kocatepe Mosque stands as one of Ankara's most prominent landmarks and the largest mosque in the Turkish capital. Completed in 1987 after nearly two decades of construction, this magnificent structure was designed by architect Vedat Dalokay in a classical Ottoman style, featuring four towering minarets that reach 88 meters into the sky. The mosque serves as both a place of worship and a symbol of modern Turkey's connection to its Islamic heritage. Located in the heart of Ankara's Kızılay district, Kocatepe Mosque can accommodate up to 24,000 worshippers across its main prayer hall and courtyard. The interior showcases exquisite Islamic calligraphy, intricate geometric patterns, and beautiful stained glass windows that create a serene atmosphere for prayer and contemplation. Beyond its religious significance, the mosque has become an architectural icon of Ankara, representing the blend of traditional Islamic design with contemporary construction techniques.

What to See & Do

Main Prayer Hall

Marvel at the vast interior space with its impressive dome, ornate chandeliers, and beautiful mihrab decorated with intricate Islamic calligraphy

Four Minarets

Admire the impressive 88-meter tall minarets that dominate Ankara's skyline and serve as navigation points throughout the city

Courtyard and Fountains

Explore the spacious courtyard with its traditional ablution fountains and peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection

Islamic Calligraphy

Observe the masterful Arabic calligraphy adorning the walls, featuring verses from the Quran in various traditional scripts

Panoramic City Views

Enjoy spectacular views of Ankara from the mosque's elevated position, especially beautiful during sunset

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from dawn to dusk; prayer times vary by season. Closed to tourists during prayer times (approximately 30 minutes, 5 times daily)

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission for all visitors

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds; avoid Friday prayer times (11:30 AM - 2:00 PM)

Suggested Duration

45 minutes to 1.5 hours for a complete visit

Getting There

Kocatepe Mosque is easily accessible via Ankara's public transportation system. Take the metro to Kızılay station (M1, M2, or M3 lines) and walk approximately 10 minutes uphill to the mosque. Numerous city buses also stop near the mosque, including routes 65, 67, and 625. For those driving, limited parking is available around the mosque, though public transport is recommended due to heavy traffic in the area. The mosque is also within walking distance from many central Ankara hotels and can be reached by taxi from anywhere in the city center.

Things to Do Nearby

Kızılay Square
Ankara's bustling commercial heart with shopping centers, restaurants, and the famous red crescent monument
Güven Park
A peaceful urban park perfect for relaxation, featuring walking paths, fountains, and seasonal flower displays
Tunali Hilmi Street
Popular pedestrian street lined with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, ideal for dining and shopping
Yerevan
Ankara's premier cultural venue hosting opera, ballet, and classical music performances in an elegant Art Deco building
Kuğulu Park
Scenic park known for its swan pond, walking trails, and proximity to embassies and upscale neighborhoods

Tips & Advice

Dress modestly when visiting - long pants and covered shoulders are required; women should bring a headscarf
Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall and carry them in the provided plastic bags
Visit during non-prayer times to fully explore the interior and avoid disrupting worshippers
The mosque is beautifully illuminated at night, making it perfect for evening photography from nearby vantage points

Tours & Activities at Kocatepe Mosque