Archaeological & Religious Sites Gjirokaster Discover Our Region

Ruins of Meçites Mosque, Hamam and the Seven Fountains

Ruins of Meçites Mosque, Hamam and the Seven Fountains

The Seven Fountains are built into the foundations of the Meçites mosque, originally known as the mosque of Hadji Murad (Murad the pilgrim). The sound of the running water can be heard at some distance as you approach. The remains of the minaret tower are immediately to the right of the fountain. Destroyed by the communists a house now stands on the mosque’s original foundations. Walk down the three steps to see the remaining fountains, some of which are still in operation, with their beautiful accompanying dedicatory inscription. In these fountains the faithful ritually cleansed themselves before attending prayers in the mosque. On the other side is a Hamam, a traditional Turkish bathhouse, currently closed and awaiting restoration. The roof of the Hamam has been recently repaired by the Gjirokastra Conservation and Development Organization.