The neighborhood and the cemetery are named after Merkez Efendi, an Ottoman Islamic scholar and Sufi (1463–1552).

Many renowned intellectuals, writers and artists rest in this old cemetery covering an area of 27,800 m2 (299,000 sq ft).

[1] The cemetery was established in the 16th century with the construction of the tomb of Merkez Efendi at this location.

[2] At the time of the burial of former Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan in 2011, a comprehensive maintenance work was carried out at the cemetery.

[3] Currently, burials are allowed only for the members of families with existing graves.