History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
The historical Lale Mosque (Laleli Mosque), built in the 13th century Seljuk period, is one of the most original buildings of Kırşehir with its architectural plan and past functions. Historical records indicate that the lower floor of the building was used as a Seljuk caravanserai or mint in the past, and the upper floor was used as a place of worship. Although the mosque does not have a minaret or narthex, its square plan, vaulted ceilings and elegant stone-carved window arches attract attention. It is believed that its name comes from the tulip gardens growing in its courtyard or from the nickname of the historical figure who built the building. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located in Kırşehir city center, at an altitude of approximately 995 meters above sea level, at the intersection of the old city fabric and the historical bazaar axis. Thanks to its thick stone walls, the interior has a cool microclimate in the summer heat and a warm microclimate in the winter. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Worship and visit are completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): It is open for worship and visits 7 days a week, from morning adhan to night prayer (approximately between 05:00 - 22:30).•Rules, Security and Baby Stroller/Disabled Access: When entering the mosque, shoes should be removed and dress code (covered clothing) should be taken into consideration. There is a disabled ramp for the steps at the entrance of the mosque.•Facilities and Facilities:There are ablution facilities, men's and women's toilets and courtyard seating areas in the mosque outbuildings. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Medrese Mahallesi, Tabaklar Sokak, No:2, 40100 Kırşehir Merkez/Kırşehir.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is in the city center and only 250 meters from Cacabey Madrasa. The roads are lined with hot asphalt and pedestrian sidewalks.•Actual Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): All minibuses and public buses coming to Kırşehir market center pass near the mosque. By local transportation, you can get off at the bazaar stop and walk for 2 minutes.•Parking Availability:Indoor and outdoor municipal parking lots in the surrounding area can be used. Spiritual Visiting Etiquette and Commemoration Guidelines•Spiritual Visit and Prayer Etiquette: It is recommended to perform the tahiyyetu'l-masjid prayer in awe in this ancient temple of Seljuk heritage and to participate in daily prayers with the congregation. Behaviors that would disturb the congregation during prayer time should be avoided.•Documentary & Respectful Shooting:The Seljuk stone vaults and simple altar of the building can be photographed with dignity, without the praying congregation being included in the frame.•Important Commemoration Days:It is one of the meeting points of Kırşehir people with its mukabele and tarawih programs on Kandil nights and during the month of Ramadan.•Local Spiritual Tradition:Offering halva, Turkish delight and rose water to the congregation in the mosque courtyard after Friday prayers is a centuries-old Kırşehir tradition.