Unique Turkish cliffside mosque entices tourists

By Abdulkadir Nisanci

BAYBURT, Turkey (AA) – In Turkey’s lush green Black Sea region, tourists are flocking to a mosque situated on a cliff and offering a spectacular view.

In between the regions of Bayburt and Trabzon, the mosque, located some 3,200 meters (1,050 feet) above sea level on a cliff locally known as Kirklar, is attracting the faithful and nature lovers to experience the unique foggy, cloudy atmosphere.

Many people come to this place to detach from the city hustle and bustle and routine, to contemplate, and to commune with nature.

After braving a steep rocky climb, they can also write down their impressions in a notebook at the mosque meant for that purpose.

“This place creates a feeling of eternity,” said Nurten Balci, noting that she is visiting the place for the second time. “I want to come every year.”

“Certainly, this is a place that should be visited,” said Fatma Nur, adding that she found the place “unexpectedly pleasant.”

“Kirklar” was a term reserved for worthies who come up with solutions to social issues, and the mosque -- whose age is unknown -- is believed to be the meeting place of such luminaries.