History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
The historical Latifiye Mosque (Abdüllatif Mosque) was built in 1371 by Abdullatif bin Abdullah, a high-ranking state official, during the reign of Artuqid Sultan Melik Salih and Melik Muzaffer Davud. The monumental crown gate located on the northern façade of the mosque is considered the most intricate, geometric and muqarnas masterpiece of Artuqid stonemasonry in Mardin. The rich kundekari woodwork above the entrance gate is the pinnacle of Seljuk wood carving. It is a haven of peace in the heart of the city with its elegant square-based minaret and large courtyard, added by Gürcü Mehmed Pasha in 1845. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located just south of Mardin Cumhuriyet Square, on the slope where the historical Arasta bazaar begins, at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. The centuries-old mulberry and plane trees in the courtyard and the stone fountain with fountain provide coolness in the summer heat. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Worship and visit are completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): It is open uninterruptedly, 7 days a week, from the morning adhan until after the night prayer (between 05:00 - 22:30).•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: The mosque courtyard is covered with smooth marble stone; It can be accessed by wheelchairs and strollers from the slightly sloping road at the entrance from the market. Attire appropriate to worship etiquette must be observed.•Facilities and Facilities:There is a fountain with a historical fountain, ablution facilities, men's and women's toilets, and courtyard benches. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Ulucami District, South of Cumhuriyet Square, 47100 Artuklu/Mardin.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is only 100 meters walking distance from Cumhuriyet Square; It can be easily reached from the pedestrianized street inside the bazaar.•Actual Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): All minibuses and public buses coming to Mardin city center stop at Cumhuriyet Square stop; 1 minute walk from the bus stop.•Parking Availability:Cumhuriyet Square indoor car park can be used. Spiritual Visiting Etiquette and Commemoration Guidelines•Spiritual Visit and Prayer Etiquette: One should respectfully enter through the Artuqid stone-carved crown gate, perform the two-rakat tahiyyetu'l-mesjid prayer and donate the Fatiha to the soul of Abdüllatif, the founder of the mosque.•Documentary & Respectful Shooting:The lace-like geometric stone motifs of the muqarnas crown door and the kundekari wooden door wings are perfect for architectural detail shots.•Light and Shooting Hours:In the early morning light (08:30 - 10:30), the side light hitting the deep reliefs of the crown gate reveals the stone details most clearly.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:After leaving the mosque, you should try stuffed ribs, sembusek (Mardin pastry), stuffed meatballs (irok) and harire dessert in the historical bazaar.