One of the most interesting cultural and historical monuments of Chania is the Turkish Mosque of the Janissaries (Yiali Tzami, also known as Giali Tzami). Grand old building dominates the Venetian harbour of Chania and it is hard to miss.

The history of the mosque of the Janissaries begins in 1645, after the Ottoman Empire occupied most of the island of Crete. In that period a significant part of the Greek churches were converted into mosques (as a sign of the power of the great Ottoman Empire). An important task of the Turkish conquerors was to draw as many Christians in their religion. They were forced to convert to Islam and captured Christian boys, and then raised them in strict obedience and religious devotion.

During the research it was discovered that the mosque was built on the ruins of an old Venetian Bastion. The mosque of the Janissaries is a huge square with one large dome resting on arches, and seven small domes. The interior of the mosque is made in the Turkish style, but some elements have been preserved since the Venetian era. Unfortunately, the minaret of the mosque before our time have not survived, as it was destroyed in the early 20th century (during the Greek war against the Turks for independence). In that period almost half of the inhabitants of Chania professed Islam, and the mosque of the Janissaries was one of the most visited places in the city.

In 1923, the authorities there have been exchanges of population as part of a plan for repatriation. As a result, Muslims in the city is almost gone, and the mosque has lost its main purpose. For a long time the building was used as a warehouse. Today at the premises of the mosque hosts art exhibitions. It also houses the tourist office.