Where history and culture breathe as one.

Discover the Esztergom Mosque, one of the most unique Ottoman-era monuments in Hungary, where past and present blend harmoniously. Step inside and feel the special atmosphere of peace, faith, and cultural encounters in the heart of Esztergom, on the banks of the Danube.

Discover the history of the Mosque

Discover the history of the Mosque – a place where history breathes and cultures meet.

Discover the Esztergom Mosque, one of Hungary’s most unique Ottoman-era monuments! The former prayer hall now serves as a cultural and community space where memories of the past coexist harmoniously with the experiences of the present. Step inside and experience the peaceful silence, the weight of the historical walls, and the vibrancy of cultural life in the heart of Esztergom, by the Danube.

About Us – History and Culture

The Esztergom Mosque, also known as the Özicseli Hadzsi Ibrahim Mosque, has stood on the banks of the Danube for more than 400 years as one of the city’s most remarkable monuments. It was built in the mid-16th century during the Ottoman conquest of Hungary, when after the capture of Esztergom in 1543, the city became one of the most important military, religious, and administrative centers in the region.

The legacy of the Ottoman rule

During this period, many mosques and baths were built, but the Esztergom Mosque is the only one that has survived partially in its original form. The prayer hall built in the early 17th century features the characteristics of classical Ottoman architecture: stone and brick walls, a hemispherical dome, and the clean symmetry of the interior space reflecting Islamic architectural traditions. The mihrab — the prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca — is still visible today and is one of the most valuable elements of Ottoman-era architecture in Hungary.

The mosque has a unique, two-level structure: its lower level was part of the medieval Víziváros fortification, and the prayer hall was built above it.

The mosque is located next to the Mill Bastion and the reconstructed Veprech Tower, which houses a Renaissance-era water-lifting mechanism. This device was commissioned by Archbishop János Vitéz in the 15th century — it lifted the water of the Danube to a height of 63 meters and supplied the castle with drinking water for more than two centuries. With the restoration of the tower and the bastion, the surroundings of the mosque now function as a historical attraction and museum space.

After the reconquest of the city

In 1683, after the recapture of Esztergom, the mosque received a new function: it was first converted into a Christian chapel, then used as an archbishop’s granary, later as a warehouse and residential building. At the turn of the 19th–20th centuries, it was owned by the Petz family, who transformed it into a residence. After World War II, the surrounding area became an industrial zone, the condition of the mosque deteriorated, but fortunately its structure and form survived.

In the second half of the 20th century, the artistic and historical value of the building was recognized and it was declared a protected monument. In 1998, Rosenberg Hungária Ltd. purchased the building and a complete archaeological excavation began. The excavations revealed the original mihrab stone carvings, the lower section of the minaret, and the stones of the medieval road. After careful restoration, the building was reopened in 2007 and has since been known as a museum.

The Present – Where Cultures Meet

Today, the renovated mosque is not a religious center but a cultural and community space. The programs organized here aim primarily — though not exclusively — to build a bridge between East and West, to present the cultural heritage of the Islamic world, and to create points of connection with Hungarian historical and artistic traditions.

Our Current Exhibitions

Why is the Esztergom Mosque special?

More than 400 years old

the northernmost surviving mosque of the Ottoman Empire.

Two-level design

with original minaret remains and classical Ottoman architectural elements.

Historical surroundings

located next to the Mill Bastion and the Veprech Tower.

Monumental value

today the building functions as a museum and cultural exhibition space.

Programs and Events

The cultural life of the Mosque is especially vibrant from April to October. During this period, visitors can participate in numerous special events — from musical evenings to art exhibitions and interactive workshops. The aim of these programs is to bring cultures closer, and to create dialogue between past and present, tradition and modernity. Each event offers a unique experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Accessibility

Our Current Events

The Poetry of Bálint Balassi and Turkish Melodies – A Performance by Minstrel Árpád Keresztes Nagy

2026. September 12. - Saturday

Minstrel Árpád Keresztes Nagy takes the audience on a journey into the unique cultural world of the 16th century. Accompanied by the kobza, his performance evokes the poetry of Bálint Balassi and the Turkish musical traditions of the period. Balassi’s poetry is a defining part of Hungarian Renaissance literature, encompassing themes of love, military life, faith and the world of the border fortresses.

Cultural Autumn Opening at the Dzsámi

2026. September 12. - Saturday

In September, we are launching the autumn cultural season at the Esztergom Dzsámi with two special programmes. An engaging conversation, book signing and an opportunity to meet contemporary Hungarian historical fiction authors in person.

MOHÁCS 500 – A Historical Overview from the Age of King Matthias to the Division of the Country into Three Parts

2026. August 29. - Saturday

What led to the Battle of Mohács, and how did the country’s history transform in the decades that followed? As part of the Kaleidoszkóp Hegy Festival, we invite you to an engaging roundtable discussion at the Esztergom Mosque, where we will explore historical turning points, connections and the historical significance of the events at Mohács.

“Colourful Woven Wonders from Anatolia” – A Presentation on Oriental Carpets with Conservator Judit Szabó

2026. August 19. - Wednesday

What stories do centuries-old Oriental carpets tell? What makes Anatolian kilims so special, and how are these unique works of textile art created? As part of Art Week Esztergom, conservator Judit Szabó invites visitors to an engaging presentation offering an insight into the rich and fascinating world of Anatolian carpets.

Wool Weaving Workshop – Art Week Esztergom

2026. August 19. - Wednesday

Discover the thousands-of-years-old tradition of wool weaving as part of Art Week Esztergom! Anatolian kilims, decorated with colourful geometric patterns, have been unique works of textile art for centuries. Their simple yet fascinating technique is based on the interweaving of vertical and horizontal threads, giving rise to countless patterns and unique woven textiles.

EBRU – Live Demonstration and Workshop as Part of Art Week Esztergom

2026. August 15. - Saturday

Discover ebru, the Turkish art of painting on water, a tradition with more than 500 years of history, as part of a special summer programme within the Art Week Esztergom festival!

Stitched Notebook Workshop – Traditional Bookbinding

2026. July 11. - Saturday

Discover the basics of traditional bookbinding and create your own elegant, hand-stitched hardcover notebook (15 × 8 cm)! During the workshop, you will learn one of the classic techniques of bookbinding while working with beautiful hand-marbled papers. Ebru, the art of painting on water, was introduced to Europe and Hungary through Turkish influence and has been a distinctive decorative element in bookbinding for centuries.

Rose Festival

2026. July 4. - Saturday

For centuries, the rose has been one of the world's most beloved and extraordinary flowers. Its beauty, fragrance, healing properties, and symbolic meaning have played an important role in many cultures. Join us as we discover the secrets, traditions, and many uses of the rose.

Meditative Ebru Workshop with Ebru Artist Orsolya Takács

2026. June 27. - Saturday

Immerse yourself in the meditative world of ebru, the art of painting on water, in a special summer creative workshop!

Guided Tour at the Night of Museums

2026. June 20. - Saturday

Join a special guided tour and discover the history of the Mosque, the Ottoman period and the cultural heritage of the building.

Lantern-Making Workshop

2026. June 20. - Saturday

Create your own lantern during the Night of Museums. Children and creative adults are welcome to join anytime between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Turkish Flavors, Unique Melodies and a Cozy Summer Evening at the Mosque

2026. June 20. - Saturday

Enjoy Turkish tea, freshly brewed coffee and live music in the special atmosphere of the Mosque. The evening’s musical experience will be created by Kálmán Mády and Szabolcs Lábos.

Turkish Motif Painting Workshop

2026. June 20. - Saturday

Discover the world of Ottoman motifs and create your own artwork inspired by the iconic Ottoman tulip. The workshop is led by Derya Ocak, and all materials are provided.

“CSINIMÁCSIN CSAMPALAK” – A Playful Children’s Day

2026. May 30. - Saturday

Children’s Day time travel at the Esztergom Mosque and Veprech Tower, with historical games, skill challenges, a storytelling corner, and creative talisman-making.

The Water Fairy of the Vilayet

2026. May 9. - Saturday

An imaginative journey to Ottoman-era Buda, where literary and craft experiences await the whole family. Adults can enjoy readings and discussions, while children take part in creative activities.

Sieve in the Straw – Live Musical Storytelling

2026. April 25. - Saturday

We invite you to a magical live music storytelling experience at the Esztergomi Dzsámi, where the audience becomes part of the story. The Aranyalma Duo’s interactive performance brings tales of courage, wit, and the power of the heart to life—for both children and adults.

“Marble Universe” – A Journey from Budapest to Istanbul Exhibition of Ebru Artist Orsolya Takács

2026. March 28. - Saturday

The Esztergom Mosque hosts a unique exhibition showcasing the beauty of traditional Turkish ebru art. Discover water-born patterns and the harmony of colors inspired by centuries-old Ottoman traditions.

World Water Day at the Esztergom Mosque

2026. March 21. - Saturday

On the occasion of International World Water Day, the Esztergom Mosque and the Verpech Tower welcome visitors with interactive programs. Participants can discover the role of water in the history of Esztergom through playful presentations – from watermills and the Danube crossings to Renaissance water machines and the Turkish bath culture.

Carved in Stone – In the Footsteps of Ottoman-Era Esztergom

Esztergom has been inhabited since prehistoric times and reached its golden age in the Middle Ages. The area known today as Víziváros, where the mosque stands, was already one of the most important parts of the city. Its name was inspired by the two branches of the Danube and the warm-water springs that emerged here.

Contact & Imprint

Address: 2500 Esztergom, Berényi Zsigmond Street 18.

Phone number:+36 70 384 7649

Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 17:00

Entry: Free

Accessibility, Parking: The mosque is easily accessible both on foot and by car, and several parking areas are available nearby. We recommend approaching the parking area from Molnár sor / Horváth Géza sor (we also suggest entering this location into your GPS).

Publisher: Gül Baba Türbéje Heritage Protection Foundation

Registered office: 1023 Budapest, Mecset utca 14.

Tax number: 18875133-2-41

E-mail: dzsami@gulbabaalapitvany.hu

Publisher responsible: Gábor Pálfi