New splendor for the Selimiye Mosque: dome reaches Weidenau!

New splendor for the Selimiye Mosque: dome reaches Weidenau!

A lot of work is currently being done on the Selimiye Mosque in Weidenau/Geisweid. On Tuesday afternoon, an impressive dome was lifted onto the roof, which will be the architectural highlight of the building in the future. This dome, which was made in Turkey, is not yet completely finished, but will be given a weatherproof outer cladding to withstand the region's weather. The mosque association “Siegen Selimiye Camii” is investing no less than 1.5 million euros in the project, which is financed from generous donations and its own resources.

The renovation and modernization of the Selimiye Mosque, which is located on “Am Wildgehege” street, has been ongoing since last year. Interestingly, a new, narrow minaret, which was previously missing, will also be built next to the main building. The entire work is expected to be completed by autumn 2025, and the anticipation of the result is already palpable.

A look at Ottoman architecture

The Selimiye Mosque not only has a name, it also honors the tradition of Ottoman architecture that emerged from the 14th and 15th centuries in regions such as Rumelia and Asia Minor. The influence of the great architect Sinan, who is considered one of the most important architects of the Ottoman Empire, is particularly impressive. His masterpiece is the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 and which also impresses with its monumental dome supported by eight columns.

The Selimiye Mosque in Edirne represents the pinnacle of Ottoman architecture, and its features, such as the 31.5 meter diameter dome and four slender minarets, are not only architecturally impressive but also testify to the cultural significance of the time. This architecture is characterized by a combination of Seljuk, Armenian and Byzantine elements, which also gives it a unique character. The connection to this architectural tradition is of central importance for the new mosque in Weidenau/Geisweid, as it reflects efforts to preserve the Ottoman heritage.

The importance of preserving cultural values

The renovation of the Selimiye Mosque in Siegen shows how important the preservation of cultural values ​​is today. UNESCO has extensively documented the complex process of preserving such sites. Development projects in the field of cultural heritage require not only large financial resources, but also close cooperation between different institutions and local authorities to ensure effective management.

The mosque association in Siegen could benefit from these experiences and ensure that the mosque becomes not only a place of prayer, but also a cultural center that keeps the history and pride of Ottoman architecture alive. With enough commitment and a clear vision, the Selimiye Mosque can soon become a shining example of the preservation and further development of this traditional architecture.