The mosque contains a fragment of the Black Stone (Hacerü'l-Esved) from the Kaaba in Mecca, embedded in the wall near the mihrab.
The massive calligraphic inscriptions were added during renovations to restore the mosque's visual impact after earthquake damage.
It is the first of the three imperial mosques in Edirne to be built, preceding the Üç Şerefeli Mosque and the Selimiye Mosque.
The 'Eski' (Old) designation was only applied after larger, more complex mosques were built in the city later in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The minarets were built at different times; the one on the left was completed during the reign of Mehmed I, while the one on the right was added later by Murat II.
The Eski Cami, also known as the Old Mosque, is the oldest surviving Ottoman-era selatin mosque in Edirne, completed in 1414 under the reign of Mehmed I. Its architecture features a square plan with nine domes supported by four massive central piers. The interior walls are adorned with monumental calligraphy, a signature element of the building's aesthetic. Large black inscriptions on the white plaster walls date from the 18th and 19th centuries, replacing original faded decorations. It was constructed by the architect Alaaddin of Konya and his apprentice Ömer bin İbrahim. The mosque's facade is crafted from alternating layers of cut stone and brick, typical of early Ottoman craftsmanship. It serves as a precursor to the grand imperial mosque designs that would later define the Ottoman capital of Istanbul.
The wide angle from the courtyard looking up toward the lead-covered domes and minarets.
Walk around the exterior to view the detailed stone masonry and the transition between the different eras of the minarets.
Observe the interior calligraphy closely, as it includes some of the finest examples of Ottoman-era monumental writing in Turkey.
Visit during mid-morning to catch the natural light filtering through the high windows, which emphasizes the interior volume.
Avoid taking photographs of people who are currently praying.
Visitors must remove shoes before entering. Women should cover their hair, and both genders should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Avoid visiting during scheduled prayer times.
