Green Mosque, Iznik Restoration

Green Mosque, Iznik Restoration

The Green Mosque, Iznik restoration project involved Iznik Mavi Cini in the faithful reproduction of the original tiles used on the mosque’s minaret. Located in Iznik, the project focused on preserving tile surfaces created with the mosaic technique. Relief and star-prism-shaped tiles were reproduced in forms compatible with the existing architectural fabric of the minaret.

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The Green Mosque in Iznik is a historic structure distinguished by the tiles applied on its minaret. The minaret features tiles produced with yellow, green, purple, and turquoise glazes commonly used during the Seljuk period, assembled using the mosaic technique. This application constitutes a defining element of the mosque’s silhouette and decorative character.

Tiles with relief and star-prism forms that were damaged or stolen over time were addressed during the restoration carried out in 2015. In this process, Iznik Mavi Cini reproduced the tiles in a workshop environment, adhering strictly to the original forms and surface arrangement. The production was guided by the existing compositional structure of the minaret to ensure continuity of the original tile scheme.

The restoration aimed to sustain the historical and artistic value of the tile decorations on the Green Mosque’s minaret. The newly produced tiles were evaluated in direct relation to the existing architectural context, and the implementation was completed with a conservation-focused approach.

“In mosaic tile applications, each individual piece is an essential component of the whole.”

— “Iznik Mavi Cini, Senior Restoration Workshop Manager”

Why are the tiles on the Green Mosque’s minaret distinctive?
The tiles were created by assembling differently colored glazes using the mosaic technique. This approach defines the visual identity of the minaret.

What was Iznik Mavi Cini’s role in this restoration?
Iznik Mavi Cini was responsible for reproducing the damaged and missing tiles. All production followed principles of formal and material accuracy.

Which types of tiles were addressed in the restoration?
Relief and star-prism-shaped tiles were reproduced. These forms were evaluated in accordance with the original decorative layout of the minaret.

What was the main objective of the restoration?
The aim was to preserve the original tile composition on the minaret of the Green Mosque. The work focused on maintaining historical and artistic continuity.