Defterdar Mosque, Dodecanese Travel Guide

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Explore the Ottoman-era Defterdar Mosque in Kos Town, a historical landmark showcasing Islamic architecture and the island's diverse cultural heritage.

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Defterdar Mosque

The Defterdar Mosque, located in Eleftherias Square in Kos Town, is a striking example of Ottoman architecture dating back to the late 18th century. Built by Ibrahim Efendi, the Ottoman Sultan's Minister of Finance, the mosque stands as a reminder of the island's diverse past. Though it has suffered damage from earthquakes over the years, it remains a significant landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Kos's cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Defterdar Mosque

Irodotou 11, Kos, 853 00, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Defterdar Mosque.

Visit Eleftherias Square to see the Defterdar Mosque and other historical landmarks in Kos Town.
Take photos of the mosque's unique Ottoman architectural details, including its dome, arches, and minaret.
Learn about the mosque's history and its connection to the Ottoman Empire and local legends.

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Getting There

Walking

The Defterdar Mosque is centrally located in Eleftherias Square in Kos Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the main harbor, walk inland towards the center of the square. The mosque is located near the Plane Tree of Hippocrates and other historical sites.
Public Transport

Local buses in Kos Town serve routes that pass near Eleftherias Square. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A ride within the city costs approximately €1.70 if you buy the ticket from the driver, or €1.60 if purchased at a kiosk.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Kos Town and can take you directly to Eleftherias Square. Taxi stands are marked with a blue 'T'. A short taxi ride within Kos Town will typically cost around €5-€10, with a starting price of €3.0 EUR and €1.5 EUR per kilometer.

Discover more about Defterdar Mosque

The Defterdar Mosque, also known as the Nefterdar Mosque, is situated in Eleftherias Square, the central hub of Kos Town. Constructed around 1780 by Ibrahim Efendi, the Financial Minister of the Ottoman Empire, the mosque showcases the island's Ottoman influence.The mosque features a two-story cubical structure topped with an octagonal dome supported by twelve arches. The building is constructed with hewn ashlars, larger on the ground floor and smaller on the first, arranged in the iso-building system. Inside, eight columns support the structure, while the walls are adorned with circular frames bearing inscriptions from the Koran. Two staircases on the eastern and western sides lead to the narthex, with the eastern staircase, distinguished by its vaulted cover, once used by officials. A wooden gynakonitis, or women's quarters, is located on the north side of the main hall, while the mihrab and minbar stand to the south.Local Koan historian Zarraftis suggests the mosque may have been built on the site of a former Christian church dedicated to Saint Paraskevi, adding a layer of historical complexity. The mosque has endured damage from earthquakes, particularly in 1926, 1933 and most recently in 2017, which caused the minaret to collapse. Restoration efforts have been undertaken, including work by the Italians during their occupation of the Dodecanese. While the mosque has served as a place of worship and housed commercial shops on its ground floor, it is currently awaiting restoration.