We first got wind of the new mosque last June, when we noticed from our balcony that what had been a field with goats had foundations.
The owner of our hotel told us it was to be a men only mosque; he was angry about it, as there had been no consultation. Apparently, it was part of Erdogan’s plan to finance the building of mosques, which, together with the increased tax on alcohol and tobacco would cripple the tourist trade and put people off relocating to Turkey.
Our friends who live in Calis have sent us pictures of the completed mosque. A beautiful building it is, without the traditional dome. I’d love to see inside it, and if I can spot the imam, I may ask if we can have a look.
We have booked our room at the Tugay for May/June for four weeks, as I think we need to see how t is. I’m really hoping it’s going to be ok, as we love the hotel very much. We shall see, but fingers crossed.