For a compact backstory you can save, skim this overview first: history of Blue Mosque. When you are ready to plan your route and quiet windows around prayers, the practical visiting page is here: Blue-Mosque.

Why Was the Blue Mosque Built?

Sultan Ahmed I commissioned the mosque in the early 17th century as an imperial statement of faith and beauty facing Hagia Sophia. He was young when he took the throne and sought to leave a devotional legacy in the city’s spiritual and civic heart. The complex included not only the main prayer hall but also a madrasa, hospice, and market components, echoing the Ottoman ideal that a mosque anchors neighborhood life. When you stand in the courtyard, you can sense this intent: a gathering place for worshippers, scholars, and visitors under one vast sky.

Why Is It Called the Blue Mosque?

The name comes from the interior. Tens of thousands of İznik tiles in soft blues and sea greens lift the space with light. Calligraphic bands in elegant scripts unfold around the arches and galleries. In daylight, the color reads cool and clear; after sunset prayers, it feels deep and calm. This palette—stone, ceramic, and light—is why so many visitors remember their first sight of the prayer hall for years.

Architectural Features of the Blue Mosque

The plan is a conversation between domes and space. A central dome rests on semi-domes that step down to arcades, balancing vertical drama with a wide floor for worship. Architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a pupil of Sinan, refined proportions so the hall feels both grand and gentle, with low-hanging chandeliers keeping light close to the people while openings high above draw your eye to the heavens.

The Famous Blue İznik Tiles

Tiles tell a quiet story of craft. Patterns echo tulips, carnations, and abstract leaves. No single panel shouts; together they form a steady rhythm that frames prayer and reflection. If you are interested in details, bring a small notebook and mark motifs you love—you will start noticing relationships across walls and arches.

The Dome and Interior Design

Look up and breathe. The dome and half-domes rise like layered shells. Massive piers carry the load, but careful carving and paint soften their weight. Light comes in through many windows, so the hall glows rather than glares, and the carpet absorbs sound so whispers float. This is a building designed for people to stand together in peace.

The Six Minarets Controversy

Six minarets were unusual. Tradition says the number sparked debate because the Great Mosque in Mecca also had six at that time. The solution: Mecca gained another minaret, and Istanbul kept its six. Today the skyline reads instantly: Blue Mosque on one side of the square, Hagia Sophia on the other—two different centuries in a single frame.

What the “history of the Blue Mosque” Tells Us About Its Plan

Form followed devotion and community needs. The prayer hall is vast, yet circulation is clear; courts and gates handle crowds without harsh bottlenecks; and the complex supports study and charity. When you learn the history of the Blue Mosque, the architecture starts to feel inevitable—built to hold people gently at scale.

The Blue Mosque as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The mosque sits within the “Historic Areas of Istanbul” World Heritage property, which covers Sultanahmet, Süleymaniye, Zeyrek, and the Land Walls component areas. The listing recognizes the unique skyline and layers of Byzantine and Ottoman masterpieces that define the city’s identity.

Visiting the Blue Mosque Today

Entry is free. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times; the mosque pauses visits around each daily prayer. Typical visiting windows published by independent guides and visitor pages show morning openings, midday pauses, and late-afternoon access, with exact hours adjusted seasonally. Always check the day’s posted schedule near the courtyard entrance.

Blue Mosque opening hours and prayer-time closures. Expect short closures five times a day; each closure often spans the call to prayer and about 60–90 minutes around it. Early morning after Fajr or mid-afternoon between prayers are calm times for photos and quiet viewing. Several visitor pages keep up-to-date summaries and emphasize arriving near the first opening for the smoothest experience.

About restoration status (2025). After a multi-year restoration period that phased areas on and off view, the mosque reopened to worshippers and visitors in 2023; by 2025, visits run normally, with only occasional localized works that do not affect the overall route.

Tips for Tourists Visiting Sultanahmet Mosque

Blue Mosque dress code. Shoulders and knees should be covered; women cover hair with a scarf. Attendants provide wraps if needed. Remove shoes before entering and carry them in the plastic bag provided. Keep voices low, avoid blocking worship spaces, and pause photos when prayers begin.

Photography and timing. Non-flash photos are polite; tripods are often restricted. If you want a wide interior shot, arrive early and work quickly so others can pass. For exterior frames, step back to the courtyard arcades and use the arches as a natural border.

Combine your visit with nearby sights. Hagia Sophia is across the square; Topkapı Palace and the Basilica Cistern are a short walk away. If you want to map a full classic loop, keep this list of best touristic places in istanbul handy, and add a small detour for cafés in Sirkeci or a tea stop in Gülhane Park.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Mosque

What Makes the Blue Mosque Important?

It is a living place of worship and a masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture. The dome cascade, six minarets, and İznik tiles create a unique interior atmosphere tied to centuries of spiritual life in Istanbul.

Why Does the Blue Mosque Have 6 Minarets?

Six minarets signaled imperial ambition and design courage. The number drew attention historically, but the solution preserved the mosque’s profile and protected the honor of Mecca by adding a minaret there.

Is Blue Mosque Free to Enter?

Yes. Entry is free for visitors outside prayer times. Lines form at busy hours; arrive early or between prayers for the calmest experience.

Why Is the Blue Mosque So Famous?

Its balanced plan, tilework, and six-minaret skyline make it one of the most recognizable mosques in the world. Its position opposite Hagia Sophia frames two eras of the city in one square.

Is Hagia Sophia the Same as Blue Mosque?

No. They are separate monuments facing each other in Sultanahmet. Hagia Sophia began as a Byzantine church and today functions as a mosque; the Blue Mosque was built as an Ottoman imperial mosque in the 1600s. Both sit within the UNESCO property covering the Historic Areas of Istanbul.

Who Is Buried in the Blue Mosque?

Sultan Ahmed I is buried in the türbe (mausoleum) within the complex, along with some family members. The tomb area is visited separately from the main prayer hall and follows the same modest-dress expectations.

Practical Visiting Details

Opening hours and prayer times. Expect visitor access from morning to late afternoon, pausing for prayers; seasonal daylight shifts adjust exact windows. Several visitor resources publish daily prayer-time closures and suggest best hours to avoid queues.

Tickets and cost. There are no tickets for entry; guided tours, audio guides, or hosted experiences are optional add-ons purchased from reputable providers. If you want a simple, up-to-date visiting checklist, including dress code reminders, save the practical page here: Blue-Mosque.

Beyond the square. After your visit, consider a gentle Bosphorus sail at sunset or a transfer for a smooth airport day. Browse Bosphorus Cruises for evening plans, and keep Airport Transfer Istanbul bookmarked for your departure day. For quieter corners between big landmarks, here are unique spots to discover in istanbul where you can rest and reset.

Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Prefer tidy logistics across a busy day? The Istanbul Tourist Pass® bundles hosted entries, guided walks, and cruise options into one digital pass on your phone. It pairs easily with a Blue Mosque morning, a museum loop, and a Bosphorus evening, keeping confirmations and support in one place.

Closing Note

Carry two things away from your visit: a gentle sense of the history of the Blue Mosque and a calm plan for your next steps in the city. Understanding why it was built, how it was crafted, and how it lives today will color every glance at Istanbul’s skyline.

List of the 15 Most Popular Mosques in Istanbul

Here is a practical list with short notes. It balances icons with neighborhood gems, so you can map a full day or split the list into smaller walks. If you want a deeper dive into one landmark, follow the links placed inside the sections below.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

The Blue Mosque is the face of the city for many visitors. Its six minarets and blue İznik tiles make the interior glow. Arrive early for quiet light, dress modestly, and pause in the courtyard to feel the scale. For background before you go, read History of Blue-Mosque and check visitor notes on prayer times. You can also keep the practical page for the area here: Blue Mosque.

Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Camii)

Hagia Sophia carries the city’s layered story. The vast dome, marble floors, and calligraphy medallions create a calm, powerful space. Visit early or between prayer times, and move with quiet steps. It is one of the anchors when people ask about the best mosques in Istanbul.

Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Camii)

Ortaköy Mosque sits right on the Bosphorus with the bridge behind it. Come for soft sunset light, grab a tea, and watch boats turn under the span. It is a perfect stop on a shoreline walk. More details and directions here: Ortaköy Mosque.

Süleymaniye Mosque

Mimar Sinan’s masterpiece rests high above the Golden Horn. The complex includes courtyards, medreses, and a peaceful garden with city views. Bring a light scarf and wander slowly along the terraces.

Fatih Mosque

Fatih Mosque stands at the heart of its district with lively streets around it. The interior is airy and bright. After your visit, try a simple lunch in the nearby market lanes.

New Mosque (Yeni Camii)

By the Galata Bridge and the Spice Bazaar, the New Mosque frames the waterfront with domes and pigeons. It is easy to pair with a ferry ride across the Golden Horn.

Beyazıt Mosque

Close to the Grand Bazaar, Beyazıt Mosque offers a calm courtyard and a classic plan. It is a good pause between shopping streets and historic squares.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque

A hidden jewel near the Spice Bazaar, famous for its İznik tiles in rich blues and reds. Step up the stairs above the street and you find a quiet hall that feels like a secret.

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

One of the most beloved sites in the city. The complex includes the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari and shaded lanes that lead to tea gardens. Schedules can be busy on Fridays. Visitor page here: Eyüp Sultan Mosque.

Çamlıca Mosque

The largest mosque in Türkiye sits on a hill on the Asian side. The scale is impressive and the views across the Bosphorus are wide. Combine it with a walk on Çamlıca Hill.

Yıldız Hamidiye Mosque

Near Yıldız Park and the former imperial pavilions, this mosque blends late Ottoman style with a serene setting. It pairs well with a garden stroll.

Arab Mosque

In Karaköy, this Gothic-influenced mosque reflects earlier layers of the district. It is quiet, atmospheric, and close to the waterfront.

Chora Mosque (Kariye Camii)

Known for exquisite mosaics and frescoes from its museum period, Chora’s setting in a residential neighborhood makes the visit feel intimate. Check current visiting status and hours before you go.

Nuruosmaniye Mosque

By the Grand Bazaar’s Nuruosmaniye Gate, this mosque brings Baroque lines into Ottoman space. The interior is bright and elegant, and the courtyard is a calm pause from the bazaar.

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Üsküdar)

Another Sinan design by the water. The space feels generous and light. Pair it with a promenade walk in Üsküdar and a ferry crossing at sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions About Famous Mosques in Istanbul

Here are answers to the questions we hear most often. They will help you move smoothly and plan respectful, relaxed visits.

What are the largest mosques in Istanbul?

Çamlıca Mosque is the largest by capacity. Other large complexes include Süleymaniye and Fatih. On busy days, arrive early and follow posted guidance for prayer times.

What are the most famous mosques?

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Süleymaniye lead most lists of famous mosques in Istanbul. Ortaköy Mosque is iconic for photos, and Eyüp Sultan is a spiritual anchor for many residents.

Which mosques should you visit in Istanbul?

First-time visitors often choose Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye, and Rüstem Pasha in one loop. Add Ortaköy for sunset and Eyüp Sultan for the neighborhood atmosphere. This mix balances grandeur, tile work, and waterfront views.

Which mosque in Istanbul has four minarets?

Several imperial mosques feature more than two minarets. The classic six-minaret example is the Blue Mosque. For a full layout across districts, save a mosques in Istanbul map to your phone before you set out.

Planning Notes and Simple Etiquette

Dress modestly, move calmly, and enjoy the light. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women are expected to cover hair inside prayer halls. Remove shoes at marked areas and carry them in the small plastic bag provided. Avoid flash photography. If you arrive during prayer, wait in the courtyard and enter when the flow of visitors resumes.

Wondering how many mosques in Istanbul there are? The city counts several thousand across districts and neighborhoods, from grand imperial complexes to small local spaces. This variety explains why the famous mosques in Istanbul feel both monumental and close to daily life.

Route idea for one easy day: Start with the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in the morning, add Rüstem Pasha and the Spice Bazaar by midday, then move to Süleymaniye for views. End by the water at Ortaköy Mosque for sunset photos. This loop touches many of the famous mosques in Istanbul without rushing.

Photo tip: For steady frames, rest your elbows on a courtyard wall. Capture wide scenes at dawn and details at noon. Keep one gallery for İstanbul mosques photos so you can label and share easily later.

Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Prefer tidy logistics and hosted entries while you explore? The Istanbul Tourist Pass® brings guided access, hosted meet-ups, and Bosphorus options into a single digital pass on your phone. It pairs well with a mosque-focused day if you also want museum entries or a sunset cruise in one smooth plan.

Choose the experiences that match your pace, then let the Istanbul Tourist Pass® keep tickets and support in one place so you can focus on courtyards, tiles, and quiet moments.

Closing Note

Let the city set your rhythm. With this list you can weave the famous mosques in Istanbul into calm walks, sea crossings, and simple pauses for tea. Move with care, look for details, and you will carry home a clear memory of domes, light, and neighborhoods that welcome you.

For a quick primer on how this landscape formed, skim the concise overview of the city’s past here: history of Istanbul. Then, read the detailed background of our first stop here: history of Hagia Sophia.

A Route Connecting Three Iconic Religious Sites

This route is compact, meaningful, and easy to navigate. The sequence lets you feel different layers of Istanbul’s faith and history without rushing. Begin early at Hagia Sophia to enjoy quiet light. Move to Eyüp Sultan for devotion and neighborhood life. End at Ortaköy Mosque with the sea breeze and bridge lights.

Why These Three Mosques Are A Must-See

Hagia Sophia embodies the city’s layered identity with its vast naos, elegant marble, and surviving mosaics. Eyüp Sultan Mosque surrounds the resting place of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, making it a beloved site of prayer and remembrance. Ortaköy Mosque (officially Büyük Mecidiye Camii) frames faith and daily life with the Bosphorus Bridge as a backdrop. Together, they show how architecture, devotion, and the waterfront shape Istanbul’s spirit.

Suggested Order Of Visit & Travel Time

Morning: Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet, then a brief walk through the gardens for photos. Midday: tram or taxi to Eminönü and bus to Eyüp Sultan, or take a Golden Horn ferry for a scenic approach. Afternoon & Sunset: ride to Ortaköy Mosque for soft light and an easy close by the water. With modest transfers and a few pauses for tea, the Religious Sites Route Istanbul feels unrushed and complete.

Hagia Sophia

Step into one of the world’s great interiors. The dome seems to float on light, while marble panels, columns, and calligraphy medallions give the space quiet power. If you love context, read the full background here: history of hagia sophia.

Architectural Wonders And Spiritual Atmosphere

Hagia Sophia interior details reward slow looking. Stand beneath the central dome to feel the proportions. Walk the side aisles to study capitals and marble veining. The atmosphere shifts gently through the morning as the light moves across the floor.

Iconic Dome And Mosaics

Look for shimmering tesserae and quiet traces that survived time. Bring a short lens for wider shots and a longer one for mosaic details. Curate your own collection of Hagia Sophia photos with balanced angles and respectful framing.

Transition From Church To Mosque

Hagia Sophia history reflects the city’s long arc. The site served as a church for centuries, later as a mosque, and continues as a place of worship today. This layered story is part of what makes the Religious Sites Route Istanbul so compelling.

Visiting Hours & Entrance Details

Hagia Sophia opening hours can shift on religious or national holidays, and prayer times affect interior access. Arrive near opening for the calmest visit. Entry procedures may differ by section. For the most current approach, follow posted signs and ask staff if you plan to join a Hagia Sophia tour or need guidance about Hagia Sophia tickets.

The Spiritual Heart Of Istanbul: Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Eyüp Sultan Mosque stands at the Golden Horn’s upper reaches, surrounded by centuries of devotion and neighborhood life. Families gather in the courtyard, children chase pigeons, and the flow of visitors remains gentle and kind.

Tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari

The resting place of the Prophet’s companion gives the complex profound meaning. Many visitors come to offer prayers near the Eyüp Sultan Türbesi. If you are looking for the location, ask locals for the türbe; they will guide you with warmth. Travelers sometimes search as “Ayub al-Ansari tomb in Istanbul location” when saving pins on their maps.

Friday Prayer Experience

Fridays see larger gatherings. If you wish to observe, arrive early and keep a respectful distance. The flow of worship, greetings in the courtyard, and the city’s rhythm are moving to witness.

What To See Around Eyüp Sultan

Walk the historic streets around the complex. Look for carved fountains, small bookstores, and gentle cafés. If you have time, ride the cable car to Pierre Loti Hill for a wide view of the Golden Horn.

Pierre Loti Hill And Cable Car Ride

The cable car rises to a terrace that frames mosques, water, and hills. It is a soft pause after your visit. Many search schedules by “Eyüp Sultan cable car” and plan a tea break at the top.

Ortaköy Mosque

Ortaköy Mosque, officially Büyük Mecidiye Camii, sits right on the Bosphorus with the bridge beyond. The setting makes every visit feel special, especially near sunset.

Café Culture And Street Food By The Mosque

The square fills with life. Try a simple kumpir or share a waffle, then sit by the balustrade to watch boats turn under the span. For everyday flavors elsewhere on the route, keep this guide handy: street food in istanbul.

Best Photography Spots At Sunset

Stand on the right side of the square for the classic frame: mosque, water, and Bosphorus Bridge. As lights come on, reflections gather on the surface. If you have time later in your stay, a gentle Bosphorus cruise will give another angle on Ortaköy Mosque, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Rumeli Fortress.

Practical Tips For Your Religious Sites Route

Small choices keep the day smooth. Comfortable shoes, a light scarf, and a bottle of water cover most needs. Save pins for tram stops, ferry piers, and taxi stands so transfers remain easy.

Best Time To Visit (Season & Time Of Day)

Spring and Autumn offer mild weather and soft light. Winter brings quiet mornings; pack a warm layer. Summer gives long evenings that are perfect for Ortaköy at sunset. For Eyüp Sultan mosque opening hours and the Ayub al-Ansari tomb opening times, check posted notices on the day since prayer schedules guide access.

Transportation Tips (Ferry, Metro, Taxi)

Tram T1 and nearby ferries make the route flexible. A short taxi ride can bridge gaps if you are short on time. When navigating to Ortaköy, search Ortaköy Mosque directions on your map app, and if needed ask a local for “Büyük Mecidiye Camii.” For quick context between stops, browse this list of famous building in istanbul and add one nearby façade or courtyard that fits your timing.

Cultural Etiquette And Dress Code

These are living places of worship. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women may need a headscarf inside prayer halls. Speak softly, follow the flow of visitors, and avoid blocked areas. During prayers, step back and wait respectfully.

What To Wear Inside Mosques

Simple, modest clothing is best. Bring a light scarf and socks for shoe-off areas. Avoid flash photography and bright camera lights inside.

Respectful Photography Guidelines

Photograph architecture and details without intruding on worship. Frame wide shots from the back of the hall and move quietly. If in doubt, ask a staff member. When you share images, caption with care and place names.

Istanbul Tourist Pass®

Keep your plans tidy with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. You can bundle guided entries, hosted meet-ups, and Bosphorus options into one digital pass and manage everything on your phone. It is especially helpful if you want timed access at busy sites and clear meeting points in Sultanahmet and along the waterfront.

Pick the experiences that match your day—sunrise photos, a mid-morning visit at Hagia Sophia, a scenic ferry, or an evening cruise, and let the Istanbul Tourist Pass® simplify tickets, confirmations, and support while you focus on the route.

Closing Note

Walk with calm, look for details, and pause often. With this Religious Sites Route Istanbul, you will carry home clear photos, kind memories, and a deeper sense of the city’s living faith; one dome, one courtyard, and one waterfront view at a time.

The mosque is baroque in style and is built of hewn stone. It is an edifice with 55 windows, two minarets and leveled with an octagonal ground. It has one dome and the area in front of the mihrab is covered with a semi-dome.

The interior is spiced with calligraphic artwork. The mosque treasures both Ottoman and European encaustic tile work. Within this framework, the mosque is like an exhibition of different cultures.

The interesting story of the Mihrimah Sultan Mosques come from the name of the Mihrimah Sultan. Mihr-u Mâh means “sun and moon” in Persian, so Mimar Sinan built the most suitable mosques he can for Mihrimah with a symmetry that was never seen before on Earth.

The mosque at Uskudar is situated on Istanbul's seventh-highest hill. However, the mosque in Edirkapi was erected in a dull position, out of sight, and it remained towering alone in that place for a long time. This decision of setting is seen as a representation of Mimar Sinan's secret love for Mihrimah Sultan. The sun sets behind the sole minaret of the mosque at Edirnekapi every year on March 21, the day of Mihrimah Sultan's birthday, if you can find a location where you can see both Mihrimah Sultan Mosques at the same time.

After then, the moon would rise between the mosque's minarets in Uskudar, giving Mihrimah Sultan her name, which means "sun and moon." Although this is merely one example of the famed Mimar Sinan's architectural brilliance, the way it fuses nature and art makes it stand out.

Despite being the smaller of the two mosques in Uskudar, the first mosque is nonetheless a huge structure. It has the enormous primary dome that has become Mimar Sinan's trademark, which is surrounded by three smaller domes. Looking up to the main dome gives visitors an amazing sense of scale, making them feel like tiny people in comparison to this enormous monument. The interior is incredibly vast with a high-vault design. There are numerous modest Islamic verses on the interior walls of the tall, thin minarets.

Despite being over 500 years old, the structure does not feel dated and continues to stand tall with its fascinating interior architecture and little embellishments. A minbar inside and an ablution fountain outside, both of which are referred to as "Şadırvan," are further features of the traditional Islamic mosque construction. Gray cut stones were used to build Uskudar, which is located outside the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque. Very those that were utilized on the minbar, the inside features gleaming marble stones that are particularly appealing.

In Edirnekapi, the second Mihrimah Sultan Mosque is a larger and marginally more intricate structure than the first. The mosque's exterior features include a sizable courtyard with an ablution fountain surrounded by grassy areas and semi-open hallways supported by several columns made of granite and marble. Despite having just one minaret, the mosque's tall and thin construction, which overlooks the main thoroughfare, is striking. Inside, it is clear that one mosque is bigger than the others.

The mosque is naturally lit throughout the daylight since windows cover a large portion of the wall's surface area. Due to the renovations and repairs it underwent following the earthquakes, the mosque's interior feels modern despite its age. It's also important to note that entering the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in Edirnekapi at night is a completely different experience thanks to the alluring ambiance created by the lighting of the substantial hanging chandeliers.

How To Go To Mihrimah Sultan Mosque

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in Fatih, Edirnekapi is easily reachable. All you have to do is get on either the M1A Yenikapi – Ataturk Airport or the M1B Yenikapi – Kirazlı metro line and get off at the Topkapi – Ulubatli stop. From there, it is just a 10-minute walk to the mosque. To reach this mosque from the Anatolian side, you can use the Marmaray to go to the Yenikapi station and transfer to the metro lines we mentioned before.

The second Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in Uskudar is likewise quite accessible and is situated in a prime area. Both the Uskudar Pier and the Uskudar Marmaray station are fairly close by, so you can either take a boat from Eminonu and enjoy a little tour of the Bosphorus en route or choose the quicker route and utilize the Marmaray to go to the Uskudar stop

The district where the mosque resides is also called Eyup Sultan. Although it was damaged due to many natural disasters throughout history, these damages were repaired over time. And now you can see this beautiful Mosque with all its might and beauty.

Impressive Architectural Structure Of The Mosque

Eyup Sultan Mosque was built in 1459 during the reign of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in the Eyüp region of Istanbul. The main plan of this mosque, which was designed as a social complex, dates back to ancient times. This mosque, which remained a project idea for a long time, was finally decided and built in 1459. It has one central and twenty minor domes surrounding it. It stands out with its complex design since inside of itself, Eyup Sultan Mosque hosts numerous sepulchers and tombs.

Although it managed to preserve its majesty and beauty for centuries, an earthquake in 1766 caused a restoration to take place. This mosque, whose entire building plan has been redrawn, is one of the few places considered very sacred by Muslim people and tourists. We assume even these historical facts alone make it a place quite worth seeing as a tourist attraction.

It is accepted as one of the best represented examples of Ottoman architecture. After it was built, it became one of the most visited and worshiped places in the Ottoman period. This building, which has been among the number one tourist attractions in Istanbul today, is flooded by domestic and foreign tourists. Needless to say, it is among the best places to visit in Istanbul.

Favorite Of The Turkish People; Worship In The Eyup Sultan Mosque

Eyup Sultan Mosque, which is popular among tourist attractions, attracts Muslim tourists and foreign tourists. It hosts Muslim tourists from various parts of the world. It is constantly overflooded, and it also manages to attract the attention of the local people. The people who have been performing their worships that have been going on for centuries managed to keep the spirit of Eyup Sultan alive.

The mosque itself and the other structures inside its domain are spread over a rectangular area. The mosque with protruding mihrab is covered with 21 domes, one of which is the central dome with a diameter of 17.5 meters. Baroque fountains, believed to be sacred and healing water, are placed in all four corners. Around Eyup Sultan, there are other landmarks that you will enjoy looking at, such as a mighty plane tree, cypress trees, and cemeteries surrounding the building in its central courtyard.

Dear and loved poets and authors or historical characters such as Ahmet Haşim, Fevzi Çakmak, Necip Fazıl, Ziya Osman Saba and Sokullu Mehmet Pasha rest there. Eyup Sultan Mosque enchants its visitors with its majestic structure and fascinating history. If you want to crown your Istanbul trip, give this place a chance and visit Eyup Sultan Mosque with the Istanbul Tourist Pass.

You can have detailed information about its history with a private guide service. At the same time, you can benefit from the privileges of an Istanbul Tourist Pass membership and experience a premium travel experience. When your trip is over, if you want to continue your tour with cultural elements, you can turn your route to Basilica Cistern and discover the different cultures of Istanbul. You can learn more about the other best places to visit in Istanbul from Istanbul Tourist Pass website. It will serve you as a perfect Istanbul travel guide

The Reputation Of Iznik Tiles At Blue Mosque

Probably, the question triggering curiosity is what makes Blue Mosque famous in the world – its hugeness, artistic level of decoration or six minarets? Blue Mosque architecture has the breeze of traditional Islamic arts, footprints of Ottoman architecture and some glimpses of Byzantine figures inspired by Hagia Sophia. The indoor walls and dome floorings are covered by more than 20.000 İznik tiles having the tulip designs of 50 varying motifs. The lower floors of the mosque with more flower-like motifs are usually compared to the upper decorations of traditional İznik style. That’s why blue is the dominant color in the majority of the decorative pieces of Sultan Ahmet Mosque.

What is the Blue Mosque made of emerges as a question of its structure? It is known that the mihrab and Sultan’s mahfil were made of artistically carved and sculpted marble. Crystal lightings were added to reinforce the enlightenment provided by 28 vast windows letting sunlight in. Owing it to those breathtaking Iznik tiles and calligraphy examples to decorate the domes, the Blue Mosque was recorded into the UNESCO World Heritage List of Zones Historiques Istanbul in 1986.

Another fact of raising interest is the reason why Blue Mosque has 6 minarets. There is a legend-like story saying that Sultan Ahmed I ordered the architect to build-up golden minarets, which was assumed to be mistakenly understood as six in number due to the homonymic words in Turkish. After the Blue Mosque with six minarets had been completed, the Sultan was accused of being impertinent, since the Prophet’s Mosque in Mecca was the only example of its type with six minarets, at that time. What the Sultan did to overcome the problem was to add the seventh minaret to the latter to show his respect.

Visiting Tips At Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque is not considered merely as a museum but it is currently alive and opens its gates daily to worshipping Muslims. This fact makes visitors think about how to visit Blue Mosque and what to wear to the Blue Mosque. The visitors are always welcome to see this magnificent work of art during the day, except for half an hour, pauses avoiding distracting worshippers. During Friday rituals, Blue Mosque is closed for 90 minutes at noontime.

Another very important issue is about what to wear to the Blue Mosque. To respect God and the House of God, all visitors must take off their shoes and put on plastic covers instead while visiting Sultan Ahmet Mosque. Females are required to cover their heads, hair and their shoulders with a textile head cover (if they do not have long sleeves) before getting in. This is also a requirement for worshipping ceremonies. The visitors are expected to be respectful to the worshipping community during their tours by not staring at them or not using flash to take photos. You can have all the specific guidance about visiting this spiritual atmosphere during your selected Istanbul Old City Tour which is one of the walking favorites on the spot.

There is no entrance fee but a donation is welcome to support the cleaning and tidying up requirements for this historical masterpiece. If you are wondering whether can you visit the Blue Mosque at any time, the response is a big yes with exceptions. The building is open for prayer from early morning till late evening. Visitors can’t get in at when is Blue Mosque open for worshipping; they should wait until 09:00 in the morning and are free to visit until early evening before when the Blue Mosque is closed for tourists.

Blue Mosque Tour Selections

In order to arrange your Blue Mosque tour, you are strongly recommended to check exciting tour programs such as Blue Mosque Area Ottoman and Byzantine Heritage as well as Istanbul Classics and Highlights for a full day excursion.

If you want to enjoy your time after visiting the historical peninsula, there is a peculiar choice to feel the rhythm of Istiklal Street, just walk in Beyoğlu. It is easy to transfer from Blue Mosque to Istiklal Street by public transport. The Zeytinburnu-Beşiktaş tram stop is just opposite the square and there are bus lines connecting these places above. For international visitors, there is a private transfer from Blue Mosque to SAW Airport to save more time to explore the historic district.

Following years of neglect, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce took over and declared the Grove a conservation area, thereby saving much of the flora and fauna and planting many more trees.

Boasting several restaurants, sports facilities, meeting rooms and beautiful gardens, the Cemile Sultan Grove is a popular function space and areas of it can be hired for special occasions. Dining options include Koru Restaurant, Hünkar Kösk, Sultan Kösk and the Tas Bar.

Sport enthusiasts will appreciate the onsite billiard room, games room, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts and the semi-Olympic sized swimming pool. Other facilities include meeting and seminar rooms and the garden area with pool and waterfall that can accommodate up to 1,500 guests.

Address: Küçüksu Cad. Dr. Orhan Özdeş Sok. No:4/6, Kandili, Beykoz

Phone: +90-216-3084943

When it was 1948, it was reopened under the name of “Nautical Museum” in the boat shed of the Dolmabahçe Palace. However, it was moved to the “Cartwright’s Lodge” of the Dolmabahçe Palace. The museum was eventually moved to the former Beşiktaş Tax Office building, it’s current location today, in 1960. In 1970, a “Gallery of Rowboats” was constructed in buildings hosting the museum.

The historical rowboats gallery represents the most interesting section of the museum as it encompasses various marine-related objects. The unique imperial rowboats of the Ottoman could be protected exactly in original form and are exhibited to the visitors in this gallery. The most valuable masterpiece in this gallery is the cruise galley pertaining to Sultan Mehmed the 4th that reigned between 1648 and 1687. The pilothouse of this original galley that is 40 m in length, 5.90 m in width and 140 tons in weight, each oar of which is rowed by three persons (a total of 144 oarsmen) propelled by 24 pairs of oars is the elegant example of the Turkish handworks.

The garden of the museum was also decorated as an outdoor exhibition area. Here, the mosaic reproduction of the Piri Reis’s map as well as the three wall maps demonstrating the boundaries of dominance of the Ottoman Empire, the busts of famous Turkish sailors, other objects not impacted by weather conditions and original mines, torpedoes, naval cannons, old booklets pertaining to marine institutions etc are exhibited. There are currently 3.472 arts of work in the Nautical Museum. In the Historical Naval Archive, around 25 million historical written documents belonging to the Ottoman Admiralty period are hosted.

The museum can be visited on all days of the week between 09.00 and 17.30 except for Monday and Tuesday.

Location: Near the Barbaros Hayrettin Pier, Beşiktaş
Telephone: 0212 327 43 46

From the fifteenth day of the month of Ramazan to religious night of Kadir, Hırka-i Şerif is open for visitors in the break between the noon and midafternoon prayers. During the construction of the mosque many buildings nearby were built as adjuncts to the mosque, such as a mortmain for the eldest member of the Üveysi family, an office for the deputy, barracks for soldiers (this building which is presently used as Hırka-i Şerif Primary School), and rooms for those on duty.

One can enter the yard through three gates. They are made of hewn kefeki stone. The mosque has two minarets, each with a single balcony. A dome with eight windows covers the eight-edged mosque. Above the gate on the right hand side of the yard there is a calligraphic epitaph by Kazasker Mustafa İzzeddin, under Sultan Abdülmecid’s monogram. Below the dome, eight framed verse inscriptions made by the same calligrapher can also be seen. Eight framed inscriptions are displayed above the mimbar, which are Abdülmecid’s own work and bear his signature. The preacher desk, mihrab and mimbar are made of red porphyry.