Do not be fooled by its name, the Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque is no longer an operating mosque. Instead, it is now a space for ad-hoc events. As the only preserved mosque of Chania, it is known by many names – the Mosque of the Janissaries, Hassam Pascha Mosque, or simply Yiali Tzami, which is derived from Turkish, “Yali Tzamissi” meaning seaside mosque. Built after the Ottomans seized Chania, the mosque is the oldest Turkish building in Crete.

Its monochrome sandy white exterior lends an unassuming façade that is distinct from the colourful buildings behind it. The great dome topping the mosque, stark against the ordinary cuboid buildings, cuts a striking figure that is further accentuated with six other smaller crowning domes. But it is not merely a splendid sight to behold - from mosque to museum storehouse to tourist information point to art space and gift shop, the Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque has lived many lives. Who knows what form it will take when you visit?