The building was originally constructed by the Greek community in Ayvalık in 1850.
The name 'Phaneromeni' refers to the 'Manifestation' of the Virgin Mary, to whom the original church was dedicated.
The conversion process involved stripping religious iconography and adding a mihrab and minbar to align with Islamic prayer requirements.
The structure is a prime example of the cultural syncretism resulting from the population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
Despite its conversion, the building retains the foundational stone-cutting style characteristic of 19th-century Ayvalık stonemasons.
The Hayrettin Pasha Mosque, located in the historic center of Ayvalık, is a repurposed 19th-century Greek Orthodox church originally known as the Church of Panagia Phaneromeni. Following the 1923 population exchange between Greece and Turkey, the building was converted into a mosque in 1928. It exhibits traditional neoclassical architectural features, including a rectangular floor plan and thick stone masonry common to the island and regional Greek architecture of that era. The exterior facade features distinctive stonework and arched window frames that retain their original late-Ottoman-era aesthetic. Unlike standard Ottoman-style mosques, the structure lacks a traditional minaret integrated into the main building, which was added separately post-conversion. The interior retains traces of its original ecclesiastical layout, including high ceilings and columns repurposed to support the prayer hall. It remains an active place of worship serving the local community in the Sakarya neighborhood.
The main entrance facade from the street level allows for the best view of the historic stonework and arched windows.
Observe the building from the exterior first to identify the original Greek architectural details before entering.
Visit during prayer intervals to ensure the space is empty for quiet reflection and photography.
Respect the community atmosphere by walking quietly and avoiding areas cordoned off for congregants.
Avoid visiting during the five daily prayer times as the space will be occupied by worshippers.
Visitors must remove shoes before entering the prayer hall. Women should cover their hair with a scarf; both men and women should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Maintain silence inside.
