Sultan Murad Mosque and The Clock Tower, Skopje

The Sultan Murad Mosque and The Clock Tower are iconic landmarks with a rich history that offers a glimpse into the heritage of the region.

The Sultan Murad Mosque holds a unique distinction as the oldest mosque ever constructed on the Balkans. Its origins trace back to 1436 when it was commissioned by Sultan Murad II, the father of the renowned Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. As a result of this significant royal patronage, the mosque is often referred to as the "Sultan mosque" and is considered a sacred place of worship. The mosque was built atop the Virginov Hill, and it stands on the historic foundations of the former Christian center in Skopje, the Saint Gjorgi Monastery.

Throughout its long history, the Sultan Murad Mosque endured two major fires. The second fire resulted from the devastating actions of the Austrian general Piccolomini in 1689 when Skopje was set ablaze. However, the mosque was rebuilt and restored on both occasions, attesting to its enduring importance. These successive renovations and refurbishments over the years make it challenging to precisely determine its original appearance, but it is believed to have been similar to two other mosques commissioned by Sultan Murad II, located in Izmir and Bursa.

Today, the mosque stands as a testament to time, constructed from a blend of bricks and stones. Its interior layout resembles the design of Christian basilicas with three naves. Surrounding the mosque are two türbes, or mausoleums, which, along with the mosque, create a captivating historical complex.

The Clock Tower, a prominent feature of the complex, has a storied past. It has been mentioned in the travelogues of various explorers and travelers who passed through the region, including notable figures like Evliya Celebi and Filip Difren Kane. These travelers described it as one of the most extensive and beautiful city clock towers of its time. This historic tower is considered to be the first clock tower constructed in the Turkish Empire.

The base of the clock tower was originally part of the defensive walls of the former Saint Gjorgi Monastery, also known as the Virginski Monastery. This clock tower, with its splendid architecture and intricate timekeeping mechanism, serves as a significant testament to the cultural and historical legacy of Skopje.