Fethiye Camii (Kars)

Fethiye Camii is a historical structure that acquired its current function as a mosque in 1985 after being converted from a Russian Orthodox church built during the late 19th century under the Russian Empire in the name of Alexander Nevski. The building reflects influences of Baltic and Russian architecture and is distinguished by its three-colored stone masonry, barrel-vaulted roof and façade decorations in Neo-Renaissance and Empire styles.

^{Fethiye Camii (Photo: Hatice Senem Turan)}

Fethiye Camii is a structure located in the center of Kars province, built during the final quarter of the 19th century under the Russian Empire. Constructed as a church, it was erected between 1885 and 1890 by members of the Russian Orthodox Church in honor of the Russian commander Alexander Nevski. However, some sources cite the construction year as 1905.

The building, constructed during the 40-year Russian occupation of Kars, came under the administration of the Republic of Turkey after 1920. In the early years of the Republic, the building was used by various public institutions and served as an indoor sports hall between 1953 and 1970. Between 1984 and 1985, two minarets were added and the structure was converted into a mosque, officially opening for worship on 17 May 1985 under the name Fethiye Camii.

^{Fethiye Camii (Photo: Hatice Senem Turan)}

Fethiye Camii is a structure that combines characteristic elements of Baltic and Russian architecture. Its architectural plan follows a rectangular basilical layout oriented east-west and consists of a single nave. The roof system is supported by a barrel vault.

The façades are enriched with stonework using three-colored basalt and granite. The symmetrical façade features crowning portals on the north, south and west sides, excluding the east; the south façade is non-functional. The entrance doors and window openings are emphasized by broken arches and pilasters, elements commonly found in Russian Orthodox churches of the period.

The upper portions of the façades are finished with coffered decorations in Neo-Renaissance style and dentil friezes in Empire style. Additionally, round oculus windows play a significant role in the building’s illumination and are characteristic features of the era. Inside, a wall-integrated heating system known as “pech,” commonly used in Russia, is installed.

Durable stone materials such as basalt and granite were preferred in the construction. The harmonious placement of colored stones has provided both aesthetic and structural advantages. This polychromatic stone arrangement is one of the defining characteristics of Russian Baltic architecture.

_{Fethiye Camii (Photo: Hatice Senem Turan)}

Fethiye Camii is located at Cumhuriyet Mahallesi, İnönü Caddesi No:10/A in the center of Kars province. Due to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot or by vehicle. The structure holds an important place among Kars’s cultural heritage assets and is considered within the framework of faith and cultural tourism.