Merkezefendi Cemetery

Merkezefendi Cemetery in Istanbul developed in the 16th century around the tomb of the Sufi scholar Merkez Efendi. It expanded over time and underwent complete reconstruction in 2007; the grounds were renewed again in 2011 during the funeral of former prime minister Necmettin Erbakan. The main square tomb measures 7.5 metres on each side and is faced with marble beneath a lead-covered dome, while the wooden sarcophagus inside is inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The cemetery preserves the memory of the past through Ottoman architecture and quiet green avenues.

The cemetery contains an unusual gravestone belonging to Halil Ağa. Before his death, he asked for the inscription “Died from women’s gossip,” turning a personal story into a humorous reminder of life.