Hizir Ilyas Kiosk

Erkilet (Kayseri) Turkey

This small Seljuk pleasure pavilion, also called the "Hidirellez", was probably used in the summer to escape the heat and enjoy the countryside.  It also most certainly must have served as a watch post.  It is located in to the north of Erkilet, a suburb of Kayseri.  It is built atop a large Hittite burial mound, and can be seen from a great distance. 

This summer residence was built by Giyaseddin Keyhusrev in 1241.  The inscription plaque is now lost.

The plan consists of a central corridor variously vaulted along its length, and which gives access to several vaulted rooms and a decorated mosque immediately to the right upon entering.  To the rear, a staircase leads up to a terrace giving a magnificent, 360 degree view over the entire Meshediyye Plain and the city of Kayseri.  As this view dominates the plain for miles, it certainly must have served as a military observation post. 

The distinctive feature of this kiosk is its white marble entry comprised of 2 panels with a geometric polygonal pattern and 2 side niches.  This entry way rivals with the finest caravansarai portals of the era, and is the only marble portal known in Seljuk architecture.

Built of very fine cut stone, this is a very rare example of Seljuk civil architecture.  The kiosk was saved from razing in 1994 and is currently being converted into a cafe-night club. The combination of the remote setting, dazzling white portal, constant cool breezes, beautiful view and total silence give this spot a magical atmosphere.

Photographs taken in August 2005.  I thank Kayseri historian Muhsin Ilyas Subasi for his guided tour.

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