The Heart of Adana: A Roman Bridge and Modern-Day Mosque

One of the most common answers to the question “What should we see while we’re in Adana?” is the Taş Köprü, or Stone Bridge.

The Stone Bridge isn’t just any old bridge but one that has been around since about 200 A.D., which means it has been doing its thing for over 1,800 years. Built by the order of the Roman Emperor Justinian I, this landmark of Adana was in use, as in vehicles drove across it, up until 2007, which is an impressive feat. Now the masonry viaduct, also known as the Roman Bridge, above the Seyhan River is used by people, bicycles, motorcycles, and ice cream and sweet Turkish treats carts.

Walking across the bridge, you get one of the best views of the Sabancı Merkez Cami (the Central Mosque named after the Sabancı family). This mosque is one of the largest in Turkey with six minarets piercing the sky for the whole city to see.

Inside the beautiful ivory walls of the mosque is a large room for prayer. The floors are covered in a carpet decorated with rows of parallel lines to indicate where men should stand, kneel, and bow in prayer facing Mecca. As you gaze up from the carpeted floor, you notice the beautiful stained glass windows that dot the stone walls surrounding you. These windows that connect the room to the outside world are bordered with different shades of blue and red. A massive three-tiered chandelier hangs from the center of the domed ceiling. The light coming through the stained glass windows reflects off the gold Arabic calligraphy onto the ceiling’s blue, white and red tiles that form wondrous works of art. The precise patterns are bold and beautiful.

On my second visit to the mosque, several children were running around the large room enjoying the feeling of soft carpet on their bare feet. I used to do the same thing in hotels. The carpeted floor somehow gives the feeling that you can run faster. This active place of worship is a cool spot that some locals use to get out of the heat and a popular tourist attraction, but it is important to remember it is a religious building. A place where locals come to pray. If you do visit this mosque, which I highly suggest, please be respectful. Try to avoid one of the five daily Islamic times for prayer. Women must wear head coverings. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed for men or women. Everyone must remove their shoes before entering. To learn more about what you need to know before visiting a mosque, you can read one of our previous posts here.