Blue Mosque is an iconic structure built by Sultan Ahmed I in Istanbul, Turkey. The mosque is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and is one of the most famous mosques in the world. It is one of the most recognizable monuments in Istanbul and has become an iconic symbol of the city.
History of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in 1609 and construction was completed in 1616. The mosque was designed by the imperial architect Mehmet Aga and it was the first imperial mosque to be built in Istanbul after the conquest of the city in 1453. The mosque is an example of the classical Ottoman architecture and is considered to be one of the finest examples of its kind.
The mosque is renowned for its interior decoration which includes over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles. These tiles were added in the early 17th century and give the mosque its name. The mosque is also known for its 6 minarets which is unique for an Ottoman mosque.
Architecture of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is a large building which measures approximately 71 meters in length and 58 meters in width. The mosque is built in the classical Ottoman style and features a central dome which is 43 meters in diameter and 26 meters in height. The dome is flanked by six smaller domes and the mosque also has four semi-domes. The mosque is constructed from stone and brick and the interior is decorated with intricate Iznik tiles.
The Courtyard
The Blue Mosque has a large courtyard which is surrounded by four minarets. The courtyard measures approximately 70 meters in length and 60 meters in width. The courtyard is paved with marble and features a large fountain in the center. The courtyard also has a variety of trees and plants which provide shade and a pleasant atmosphere.
Features of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is renowned for its beauty and its unique features. The mosque is home to a variety of different features which include:
- Prayer Hall: The prayer hall is the main part of the mosque and is where the daily prayers take place. The prayer hall is decorated with beautiful Iznik tiles and features a large mihrab which indicates the direction of Mecca.
- Mihrab: The mihrab is an ornate niche which indicates the direction of Mecca. The mihrab is made from marble and is decorated with intricate carvings and designs.
- Minarets: The mosque has six minarets which is unique for an Ottoman mosque. The minarets are constructed from stone and brick and are decorated with ornate carvings and designs.
- Courtyard: The courtyard is the main area of the mosque and is surrounded by four minarets. The courtyard is paved with marble and features a large fountain in the center.
- Iznik Tiles: The interior of the mosque is decorated with over 20,000 Iznik tiles which were added in the early 17th century. The tiles give the mosque its name and are renowned for their beauty.
The Blue Mosque is an iconic structure which has become a symbol of Istanbul. The mosque is an example of the classical Ottoman architecture and is renowned for its beauty and its unique features. The mosque is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands of people every year.