Forgotten mosque in Türkiye’s Kemah Castle reconstructed after eight centuries

The Bey Mosque in Türkiye’s Kemah district has been reconstructed after being forgotten for over 800 years, Türkiye Today reported. Located atop Kemah Castle, the mosque, believed to date back to the Mengucekid era, was rediscovered during excavations in 2010. Restoration began in 2021, costing ₺2.7 million ($71.1K), supported by local authorities and philanthropists.

The mosque officially opened for worship on April 8, 2025, with the call to prayer echoing from the castle for the first time in centuries. Kemah Mayor Cevdet Bayram expressed joy at this revival, highlighting its potential to boost local tourism.

The region, rich in history since the 11th century, was mentioned by Ottoman traveler Evliya Celebi. Bayram hopes ongoing archaeological work will further restore Kemah Castle and attract more visitors, as Kemah remains relatively undiscovered despite its historical significance.