The Presidency is closely following the developments regarding the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque
“Destruction of the holy place will not be tolerated”
Today, the news in our local press that the building adjacent to Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, which is the third holiest place of worship of the Islamic World and one of the most important symbols of the Ottoman-Turkish cultural heritage on the Island of Cyprus, will be converted into a tavern, was met with serious reaction in our country. Hereupon, following the instructions of President Ersin Tatar, a contact was made through the Cultural Heritage Technical Committee and stated that there is great concern about the developments published in the press and that the destruction of this holy place, which is the third holiest place in Islam, and the inappropriate use of its surroundings will not be tolerated, and immediate action was requested.
Upon the initiative, the Greek Cypriot authorities stated that a "coffee shop" license was given for the aforementioned place to be used appropriately by those who visit Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque and Salt Lake, that there would be no other use and that this place would be closed after 7 p.m.
The issue will continue to be closely followed by our Presidency.
Upon the initiative, the Greek Cypriot authorities stated that a "coffee shop" license was given for the aforementioned place to be used appropriately by those who visit Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque and Salt Lake, that there would be no other use and that this place would be closed after 7 p.m.
The issue will continue to be closely followed by our Presidency.