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Bird Houses in Istanbul

Bird houses in Istanbul are miniature houses located in buildings, mosques, madrasas, libraries, inns, baths, and other monumental structures built during the Ottoman period. Bird houses not only offered aesthetic beauty, but also provided shelter and protection for birds, especially pigeons and sparrows. Istanbul is one of the leading cities in the world in terms of these miniature structures.

In the Ottoman Empire, bird houses were not only an architectural decorative element, but also a symbol of respect for animal rights and nature. Providing shelter for birds and helping them stay safe from cold and rain were considered among the duties of Ottoman architects and people. They were built using very elaborate techniques. Same passion for protecting animals was shown to street dogs and cats as well.

Features and Meaning of Bird Houses

• Aesthetics and Functionality: Bird houses reflect the Ottoman love and compassion for animals. These miniature structures with architectural details were designed so that birds could nest safely.
• Settlement Points: They are usually found on mosque walls, madrasas, tombs and bridges. Facades where birds could be protected from wind and rain were chosen.
• Artistic Workmanship: Bird houses can be plain, while there are also very detailed and decorative ones. Some are designed like miniature palaces or mansions. They could even be multiple-story and multiple-section houses.

Important Bird Houses in Istanbul

Some elegant bird houses can be found on the exterior of the below monumental buildings from the Ottoman period. If you visit these historical structures in Istanbul, you can better understand the love of animals and aesthetics of the past by examining these elegant bird houses.

• Suleymaniye Mosque
• Yeni Mosque
• Nuruosmaniye Mosque
• Buyuk Valide Han (inn)
• Seyyid Hasan Pasha Madrasa
• Selimiye Mosque (in Edirne)

Hope to see you soon in Istanbul.