Alaeddin Mosque & Hill,Turkey

The hill is traditionally associated with Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, after whom the site is named. Local tradition regards the mound as an ancient tell with layers of earlier settlement beneath it. While not tied to a single dramatic legend, the site is woven into Konya's broader spiritual landscape—Konya being the city of Rumi—so the mosque and hill are often visited by pilgrims and those tracing Konya's Seljuk and mystic heritage.

• Alaeddin Mosque (Alaeddin Camii) — the principal Seljuk-era mosque on the hill
• Seljuk tombs in the mosque courtyard and on the hill
• Alaeddin Hill park (Alaeddin Tepesi) — a green, elevated public park offering city views
• Remains of the Seljuk palace foundations and archaeological features
• Panoramic viewpoints and historic stone inscriptions scattered around the site

• Representative Anatolian Seljuk architecture: stone portals, carved decoration and historic wooden elements
• An elevated urban park in the centre of Konya providing panoramic views
• A group of Seljuk-era tombs and foundation ruins that connect the mosque to the former palace complex
• Immediate proximity to other historic Konya sites (Mevlana Museum, Karatay Medrese), making it a hub in historic tours

• Guided or self-guided sightseeing of the mosque interior and courtyard
• Photography of Seljuk architectural details and city panoramas from the hill
• Attending or observing prayers (respectfully) during non-tourist hours
• Relaxing or picnicking in the landscaped park area
• Combining a visit with nearby attractions (Mevlana Museum, Karatay Medrese, Ince Minaret)

• Mevlana (Rumi) Commemoration Festival (mid-December) — Konya-wide events draw visitors to the city’s historic core
• Occasional cultural and municipal events held in or around Alaeddin Hill park during spring and summer

Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) for mild weather and comfortable walking; early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.

Konya has a continental climate: hot, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. Wind can be noticeable on the hill; bring layers outside summer months.

The mosque and hill are generally free to enter. The mosque operates as a place of worship — visitors should avoid visiting during major prayer times; quieter periods are mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Check local signage for exact opening hours and any maintenance closures.

Located in central Konya, Alaeddin Hill is reachable by city tram and bus lines with stops within walking distance. Konya Airport (KYA) is the nearest airport (~15–25 km depending on route). Some areas of the hill and mosque courtyard have steps and uneven stone surfaces; accessibility for wheelchair users may be limited in places.

Plan about 1–2 hours to visit the mosque, walk the hill, enjoy views, and see nearby ruins; longer if combining with other Konya attractions.

Dress modestly when visiting the mosque (shoulders and knees covered). Women may be asked to wear a headscarf inside — carry a lightweight scarf. Comfortable walking shoes recommended for stone paths and steps; bring water in summer.

Try: etli ekmek (Konya’s thin meat bread), hearty stews and desserts served in local restaurants. Souvenirs: whirling dervish figures, Mevlana/Rumi memorabilia, local textiles, copperware and carpets. Combine the cultural visit with Konya’s tea houses and bakeries for a full local experience.