There are many Muslim communities throughout the Balkans, and North Macedonia is no exception. The centuries-long Ottoman rule left a significant mark on the people, culture, art, language, architecture, and cuisine. One of the most visible signs of Muslim communities when traveling across the Balkans is the presence of mosques and their minarets, most of which follow the traditional Ottoman design. However, there are a few exceptions. One of these is the Painted Mosque in Tetovo, also known as Шарена Џамија (Macedonian), Xhamia e Larme (Albanian), or Šarena Džamija (Serbian/Croatian) in local languages. The mosque stands out for its vibrant, colorful walls both inside and out.
Here, I am sharing some information about the mosque, my visits to it, and photos I’ve taken over the years.
Painted Mosque of Tetovo
The Painted Mosque in Tetovo, a town with a mostly Albanian population, was built in 1438 by two sisters, Hurshida and Mensure, who sponsored its construction. In 1833, Ottoman ruler Abdurrahman Pasha renovated it, giving the mosque its vibrant and colorful appearance. Unlike typical Ottoman mosques with geometric patterns, the Painted Mosque features intricate floral motifs, bold frescoes, and a blend of Islamic art with European baroque influences.
Inside and outside, the mosque showcases exceptional craftsmanship, with vivid reds, blues, and greens covering the walls, ceilings, and mihrab. Paintings of important cities, including Mecca, further enhance its artistic beauty. This unique design earned it the nickname “Painted Mosque,” standing out as a rare example of colorful Ottoman architecture.
Surrounded by a serene garden and a fountain used for ritual ablutions, the mosque exudes a peaceful atmosphere. Its stunning design, cultural importance, and tranquil setting make the Painted Mosque a cherished symbol of Tetovo’s heritage and a popular attraction for visitors.
Photos of Šarena Džamija
Visiting Painted Mosque of Tetovo
The Painted Mosque of Tetovo is open to the public between prayer times, with free entrance, though donations are appreciated. There’s no specific dress code for tourists, and both men and women can enter at the same time to visit the main part of the mosque and its balcony. The only requirement is to remove your shoes, as is customary in all mosques. While the mosque doesn’t have its own parking, you can usually find a spot on nearby streets, and parking is free within walking distance. Photography and videography are allowed.
I recommend visiting around prayer times, as it’s fascinating to observe locals as they come and go for their daily prayers. During prayer, it’s best to stay in the garden rather than entering the mosque. Most locals are comfortable being photographed, but it’s polite to gesture or ask for permission first. Over the years, I’ve captured photos of some very interesting people during my visits.
Conclusion
The Painted Mosque of Tetovo is a must-visit when traveling through North Macedonia. It can be a convenient stop on the route between Lake Ohrid and Skopje, or you can spend more time exploring the Tetovo area. In addition to the mosque, Tetovo offers other attractions, and the nearby Shar Mountains are a must for mountain enthusiasts.
If you enjoy this mosque, check out my post on the Painted Mosque in Travnik, Bosnia-Herzegovina. For a completely different mosque experience, the Ljubljana Mosque in Slovenia is also worth a visit!
And if you want to join my North Macedonia photography tour, get in touch! It is a wonderful tour that I run every year and I love to come back each time.
