Mustafa Gurji

Mustafa Gurji (died in 1840–50), Maritime Commander of Tripoli Pashaluk (Libya), former buccaneer (at that time piracy made up the basic income of Ottoman Tripoli). At the Istanbul slave market, the future Pasha of Tripoli Yusuf Karmanli bought teenage Mustafa Gurji, who had been kidnapped from Georgia. Later on, thanks to his flair, skills and Yusuf Pasha’s support, he was appointed to the post of Rais Al-Marsa, i.e. Harbor Master. The position of Seaport Master in Tripoli was viewed as second to the rank of the Pasha and the First Minister. Europeans referred to Mustafa Gurji as Maritime Minister. He was characterized as a courageous warrior, a good diplomat and a true Muslim. He did his best to build up the navy of Tripoli. He used to dispose with the port of Tripoli and overall income of entire Pashaluk. He repaired the fortifications of the port and had sailors on payroll. He built and purchased a number of ships, increased and improved armament, built up artillery. In 1810-11, as a token of his gratitude, the Pasha of Tripoli married his daughter to Mustafa Gurji. He was instrumental in building the most beautiful mosque in Tripoli, which was completed in 1834. The fact is confirmed by the inscription on the wall of the mosque and the memorial plate, mounted during its restoration works in 2005. The Mosque of Gurji has the tallest minaret in Tripoli and it is surrounded with double balcony, which is untypical of Libya. The school that functions at the mosque bears the name of Mustafa Gurji.

Presumably, Mustafa Gurji died between 1840 and 1850. he was buried at the selfsame mosque, which was built by him. The members of his family also repose there.