Check out this splendid mausoleum in the heart of Budapest! – PHOTOS
The northernmost holy site of Islam can be found in Budapest. Built between 1543 and 1548, the “türbe” (tomb, mausoleum) is located at the top of the romantic, cobbled and very steep Gül Baba Street, on the side of the Rose Hill (Rózsadomb).
Between 2015 and 2018, the building and its surroundings were completely renovated and the steep Gül baba Street was given a new pavement that fits in the historic environment.
In 2018, the property was taken over by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The Gül Baba Cultural Centre and Exhibition Hall, run by the Gül Baba Türbéje Heritage Foundation (gulbabaalapitvany.hu), has reopened to the public in its renewed form in autumn 2018.
As we can read in Funzine’s article, Gül Baba was a warrior Muslim monk who arrived in the city with the Turkish army that had occupied Buda. In 1541, Gül baba arrived in Budapest with the Turkish army to establish a Muslim monastery, but his death interfered in his plans.
Legend has it that his coffin was even carried by Sultan Suleiman I to his final resting place.
The octagonal domed building is dedicated to guarding the remains of the Turkish monk, known as the Father of Roses, who died during the siege of Buda in 1541.
The türbe also has its own exhibition space, tearoom and conference rooms. There is also a stepped rose garden and a lavender garden. In the hanging garden, we are surrounded by thousands of plants, including rose specialities, tulips, daffodils, climbing plants and 140 trees.
Funzine advises us to approach the tomb via Gül Baba Street if we can, rather than walking up Mosque Street (Mecset utca). Although the latter is a much easier track, it is less romantic, while Gül Baba Street is a slice of medieval life with all its charm.
Next to the türbe surrounded by an artistic garden, we can find an exhibition showcasing the everyday life of the once-Turkish Buda, as well as several excellent spots to admire the beauty of the city.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
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Source: funzine.hu