Explorer Rethymno: The Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque 🕌

The **Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque** (Tzami Kara Moussa Pasha) is one of the most important preserved Ottoman monuments on Arkadiou Street, in the heart of Rethymno. This magnificent building is a living witness to the city's turbulent history, having been built after the Ottoman conquest in 1646.

---

📜 History: The Transformation of a Monument

The mosque was named after **Kara Moussa Pasha**, the Turkish commander who led the conquest of Rethymno in 1646. Its construction follows the typical process for erecting Ottoman buildings after a conquest. It is a characteristic example of the period's Ottoman architecture, reflecting the radical political and cultural changes the city underwent.

---

✨ Architecture & Current Use

The building features simple yet impressive architecture, with the central prayer hall covered by a dome. Unlike the Neratze Mosque, the **minaret** of the Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque has been **demolished** (or destroyed), leaving only its base.

Today, the Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque no longer functions as a place of worship. It has been restored by the Municipality of Rethymno and operates as a **Cultural Center** and **conference venue**, hosting exhibitions, speeches, and events. Its quiet courtyard is a serene sanctuary in the heart of the Old Town, offering a space for tranquility and reflection.

• **Location:** Arkadiou Street, Old Town Rethymno.
• **Tip:** Check the Rethymno Municipality schedule, as internal visits depend on the events being hosted.

---

© 2025 explorerrethymno.gr