The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul, Turkey. It is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and it is a major tourist attraction. Located in the historic center of Istanbul, the mosque is one of the most important monuments of Islamic architecture. The Blue Mosque was built in 1609 and it was the first imperial mosque of the Ottoman Empire.
Location and Address
The Blue Mosque is located in Sultanahmet Square, in the historic center of Istanbul. The address is: Sultanahmet Mahallesi, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey.
Architecture and Design
The mosque was designed by the great Ottoman architect Mehmed Aga and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. The mosque is made of white marble and it has six minarets, which are the tallest in the world. The interior of the mosque is decorated with beautiful tiles and intricate designs. The Blue Mosque also has a large courtyard with a fountain in the middle.
Visiting the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is open to visitors every day from 9 am to 6 pm. It is free to enter the mosque, but visitors must dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times, so it is important to check the prayer times before visiting.
What to See in the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is full of interesting features. Some of the highlights include:
- The Courtyard: The courtyard is surrounded by a colonnade and it is a beautiful place to relax and admire the mosque. The fountain in the center of the courtyard is a popular place to take photos.
- The Minarets: The mosque has six minarets, which are the tallest in the world. They are made of marble and they are decorated with intricate designs.
- The Interior: The interior of the mosque is covered with beautiful tiles and intricate designs. It is a stunning sight to behold.
Tips for Visiting the Blue Mosque
- Check the prayer times before visiting.
- Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
- Take photos from outside the mosque as photography is not allowed inside.
- Be respectful of the mosque and its visitors.