Sheikh Mutahhar (Four-Legged Minaret) Camii

Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque is one of Diyarbakır’s most monumental structures, built in 1500 (Hijri 906) by Akkoyunlu ruler Sultan November Bey. According to the inscription on the mosque’s minaret, it was constructed during the reign of Sultan Kasım Inn through the efforts of Hacı Omar Oğlu Hüseyin. The mosque is also known as "Şeyh Matar Mosque" between people due to the presence of the tomb of Şeyh Mutahhar on the site where it was built. However, its primary fame derives from its minaret, which rises on four pillars and is known as the "Four-Legged Minaret".

^{Şeyh Matar (Four-Legged Minaret) Mosque (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾

Şeyh Mutahhar Mosque was constructed according to a square plan and covered by a single dome. Black and white stones were used alternately in its construction, creating a distinctive pattern that has become a captivating aesthetic feature for observers. The minaret, located in the northeast of the structure, rises entirely independent of the main building and is designed as a square minaret resting on four monolithic stone pillars. This minaret stands out in Anatolia as a unique example of a four-legged single minaret and holds an unparalleled architectural significance.

^{Şeyh Matar (Four-Legged Minaret) Mosque (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾

The Four-Legged Minaret is the mosque’s most striking feature and holds significant tourist appeal, attracting both local and foreign visitors each year. The four pillars of the minaret are interpreted by the public as symbolizing the four Islamic schools of thought (Hanafi, Shafi, Maliki, Hanbali). On the body of the minaret, two bands of Arabic calligraphy in celî sülüs script are inscribed. The first inscription, located on the north and east sides, provides information about the minaret’s founder and construction date: "This blessed minaret was built in the year 906 AH through the efforts of Hacı Ömer Oğlu Hüseyin during the reign of Adil Sultan Kasım Han." The second inscription contains verses 40, 43, 44, and 56 of Surah Ahzab from the Quran-ı Kerim. Additionally, according to a popular belief, it is thought that the wishes of those who pass beneath the minaret’s pillars seven times will be granted.

^{Şeyh Matar (Four-Legged Minaret) Mosque (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾

Şeyh Mutahhar Mosque stands out not only for its architectural features but also for its historical and cultural value. This structure, reflecting Diyarbakır’s rich past, is an important monument built during the Akkoyunlu period. Alongside the Mar Petyun Keldani Church and Surp Giragos Armenian Church located next to the minaret, these three structures are regarded as symbols of brotherly coexistence without distinction of religion, language, color or sect. This characteristic transforms the mosque and its surroundings into a testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures.

Şeyh Mutahhar Mosque and its Four-Legged Minaret continue to endure today as one of Diyarbakır’s most important monuments, both for their architectural uniqueness and their symbolic meanings.

^{Şeyh Matar (Four-Legged Minaret) Mosque (}Diyarbakır Governorate⁾