Right in the heart of Pécs, on Széchenyi Square, stands one of Hungary’s most unique and historically rich buildings: the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, now known as the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This striking structure tells a fascinating story of religious and cultural transformation over the centuries.

From medieval church to Ottoman mosque

Before the Ottomans arrived, the site was home to a medieval Christian church, the St. Bartholomew Church, built in the 13th century. Over time, it was expanded and modified, growing into one of Pécs’ most significant religious sites. However, history took a dramatic turn in 1543 when the Ottoman Turks captured the city. For nearly two decades, the church was divided and used by both Christians and Muslims. Finally, around 1560, Pasha Gazi Qasim ordered its complete demolition to make way for a grand new mosque.

Using stones from the old church, the mosque took shape as a grand symbol of Ottoman rule. With its characteristic dome, mihrab (prayer niche pointing toward Mecca) and Arabic inscriptions from the Quran, it became one of the most significant Islamic structures in Hungary. The famous Turkish traveler Evliya Çelebi praised its beauty in the 1660s, calling it the “Great Mosque of Pécs.”

The Christian reclamation and transformations

The Ottoman era came to an end in 1686, and the mosque was converted back into a Christian church. The Jesuits, who took ownership of the building, made significant changes. They constructed a chapel, a crypt and a tower, slowly erasing some of its Islamic features. The most dramatic transformation occurred in 1766 when the minaret was demolished, and the mosque fully adopted the baroque style typical of European churches of that period.

Over the centuries, the structure underwent multiple renovations. In 1939, an effort was made to highlight its Ottoman origins by removing baroque additions and making the dome more closely resemble its original Turkish design. The final major alteration came in 1956 when the dome was remodeled into a semi-spherical shape, inspired by Florentine architecture but reminiscent of its original Turkish form.

Architectural wonders and hidden details

Despite the many changes, visitors today can still see traces of the building’s layered history. The walls bear remnants of original Arabic inscriptions, carefully preserved as a testament to its past. The tall, arched windows allow soft, greenish-yellow light to illuminate the interior, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The mihrab remains in place, a silent reminder of the mosque’s original purpose.

One of the most unique elements is the presence of two stone basins, once used in the ritual baths of Pasha Gazi Qasim’s nearby Turkish bathhouse. Today, they serve as holy water fonts, blending Islamic and Christian traditions in a single sacred space.

A symbol of coexistence

Today, the Mosque of Pasha Qasim is an active Catholic church and a major tourist attraction. It stands as a rare and remarkable example of religious and cultural blending. Visitors can explore its past through interactive exhibits, animations and guided tours that bring its many transformations to life.

Standing proudly at the highest point of Széchenyi Square, this iconic building is more than just a historical landmark. It is a symbol of the many cultures, religions and people that have shaped Pécs over the centuries. Whether you come to admire its architecture, learn about its history, or simply soak in the atmosphere, the Mosque of Pasha Qasim is an unmissable site that continues to bridge the past and present.

• Address: 7621 Pécs, Széchenyi István square 20.
• Official website: pecsiegyhazmegye.hu
• How to get there:
  • By car: Pécs is about 200 km from Budapest. Take the M6 motorway south, then follow Route 6 to the city center. Parking is available near Széchenyi Square.
  • By train: Regular trains run from Budapest’s Keleti Station to Pécs, taking about 3 hours. From Pécs railway station, it’s a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Széchenyi Square.
  • By bus: Long-distance buses from major Hungarian cities arrive at the Pécs bus station, which is a 10-minute walk from the mosque.