Fethiye Mosque

The basics

A visit to the historic Fethiye Mosque—or Mosque of the Conquest—is a must for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs who want to take in one of the few remaining vestiges of the 400-year Ottoman rule in Athens. This small but important Muslim landmark hosts occasional events and exhibitions, but is otherwise closed to the public. A stop to view the mosque’s exterior is often included in guided tours of Athens’ top ancient sites and architectural highlights, beginning with the surrounding Roman Agora.

Things to know before you go

• Check with the Athens tourist office to see if the Fethiye Mosque is open for an exhibition to visit the interiors.

• Access to the mosque and its temporary exhibitions is through the Roman Agora.

• You can see the mosque’s exterior from nearby Pelopida Street or Panos Street, or take in the building from above from the north slope of the Acropolis.

• The mosque’s minaret was removed in the 19th century, but its unique dome roof makes for striking photos.

• Wheelchair users can access the Roman Agora through the main Dioskouron entrance and proceed from there to the mosque.

How to get there

The Fethiye Mosque is within the Roman Agora archaeological site, an easy walk from the lively Plaka and Monastiraki districts and ancient ruins such as the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. Opt for a tour that includes transportation to the mosque and other top Athens attractions to cover more ground without the stress of navigating the bus or metro.

When to get there

The interior of the Fethiye Mosque is only accessible to the public when special exhibitions or other events are being held, so plan your visit around the mosque’s cultural calendar to see inside. The exteriors are best admired during daylight hours, when the domes and other architectural details are clearly visible.

Highlights of the Roman Agora of Athens

Built by Julius Caesar and Augustus in the 1st century BC as the center of Rome’s commercial activities in Athens, the Roman Agora is one of the city’s most important ancient Roman ruins today. In addition to the soaring remains of the Gate of Athena Archegetis, the site houses the Tower of the Winds—considered the world’s first meteorological station—and the East Propylon entrance gate. Visitors can also see the remains of a series of vespasianae, or public latrines.