The only mosque still in use in Sofia #Banya Bashi Mosque - Sofia Bulgaria

#September2025 The Banya Bashi Mosque stands tall in the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria. It's not only the city's only functioning mosque, but also bears witness to nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule and a symbol of rich, multicultural coexistence. Construction of the Banya Bashi Mosque dates back to the Ottoman period, generally believed to have been completed in 974 AH, between 1566 and 1567 AD. The mosque's name, "Banya Bashi," means "head of the baths" or "many baths" in Bulgarian. The name derives from the mosque's unique feature: it's built over a natural hot spring. Visitors can sometimes see steam rising from floor vents near the mosque's walls, adding to its mystique and confirming its historical connection to surrounding baths, such as the Central Mineral Baths. The mosque's main structure is square, with a massive central dome and a towering minaret. The dome, approximately 15 meters in diameter and covered in lead sheets, exemplifies the style of 16th-century Ottoman architecture. The mosque is located in a significant cultural and historical district of the city, surrounded by other notable landmarks such as the Central Sofia Market Hall, the Central Mineral Baths, and the Sofia Synagogue. This area showcases Sofia's unique blend of religious and cultural diversity. For visitors to Sofia, the Banya Bashi Mosque is a must-see cultural landmark; it's more than just a religious structure; it's a living reflection of the city's rich history and cultural heritage.