Yivli Minaret: Antalya's Seljuk Emblem

Yivli Minaret is a monumental minaret dating to the 13th-century Seljuk period, rising near Kaleiçi in Antalya's Muratpaşa district. With its fluted, or grooved, body it is regarded as the city's emblem. Reaching back to the reign of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad, this work is part of a religious complex and a must-see as you explore the historic heart of Antalya.

History

Yivli Minaret reaches back to the most brilliant era of the Anatolian Seljuk State, the 13th century during the reign of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad. Given to the city after Antalya's conquest by the Seljuks, this structure is one of the most magnificent witnesses to the city's encounter with Islamic architecture.

The minaret was not built as a lone structure but as part of a complex, together with a mosque and the surrounding units. Having stood for centuries by resisting earthquakes and the wearing effect of time, it demonstrates the sturdiness of the Seljuk building tradition. Today the minaret is counted among Antalya's most precious heritage, both religiously and culturally.

Architecture and what to see

What makes the minaret unique is the fluted body from which it also takes its name. The cylindrical shaft is divided by vertical grooves, that is flutes; these grooves lend the structure both an elegant rhythm and a sense of height. The remnants of turquoise and blue tiles adorning the body are enchanting traces reaching us from the colourful world of Seljuk art. When sunlight strikes these tiles, the minaret seems to gleam.

The body, in which brickwork is used masterfully, sets it entirely apart from the ordinary stone minarets of the period. The mosque and complex buildings right around the minaret complete the visit; here you can see the traces of the Seljuk, Ottoman and later periods together. The minaret is not merely a religious structure but a standing symbol of Antalya's layered history spanning centuries.

As you walk among the narrow streets of Kaleiçi, the minaret's fluted silhouette suddenly appears before you; this view is among the city's most photographed scenes.

How to get there

Yivli Minaret is very close to Kaleiçi, at the heart of the city centre. One of the busiest stops of Antalya's tram line is right beside the minaret, which makes access extremely easy. City buses and shared minibuses also serve the surrounding stops. For those exploring Kaleiçi, the minaret is a natural part of the walking route.

When to go and practical tips

The minaret and its surroundings can be visited throughout the year. Since it is part of a religious site open to worship, it is fitting to mind your clothing and behave respectfully during prayer times. If you wish to see the interior of the mosque, it is helpful to check the current visiting hours before you go. The moment the fluted tile decorations look their best is in the morning and mid-afternoon hours, when the sun strikes the body from the side. You can plan a full day by combining your visit with Kaleiçi and other nearby historic stops.

Why is Yivli Minaret Antalya's emblem?

Yivli Minaret is regarded as Antalya's emblem thanks to its fluted body and its monumental appearance that stamps the city's skyline. That it dates from the 13th-century Seljuk period makes it one of the city's oldest and most precious Islamic works. Adorned with turquoise tiles, its structure represents Antalya with both historical and aesthetic value.

Which period does Yivli Minaret belong to?

Yivli Minaret dates to the 13th-century Anatolian Seljuk period, the age during which Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad reigned. It was built after Antalya's conquest by the Seljuks and is one of the most magnificent examples of the city's encounter with Islamic architecture. It has reached our day as part of a religious complex.

How do you get to Yivli Minaret?

Yivli Minaret is in the Muratpaşa district, adjoining Kaleiçi and at the heart of the city centre. A busy stop on Antalya's tram line is right beside the minaret, which makes access very easy. City buses and shared minibuses also serve the surrounding stops. Those exploring Kaleiçi reach the minaret easily on foot.

To get to know Antalya's Seljuk and Ottoman heritage more closely, continue your discovery by browsing the guides, maps and other nearby historic places on FindAntalya.