The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic mosques in the world, located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is renowned for its beautiful blue-tiled interior and stunning architecture. Every day, thousands of people come to the Blue Mosque to pray and take part in the daily prayer times.
History of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was built in the early 1600s by Sultan Ahmed I. It was the first imperial mosque of the Ottoman Empire and has become a symbol of Istanbul. The mosque was originally called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, but it has become known as the Blue Mosque due to its beautiful blue-tiled interior.
Features of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is an impressive sight with its six minarets and grand domes. Inside the mosque, visitors can admire the intricately decorated walls, ceilings and floors, which are covered in more than 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles. The mosque also houses a beautiful central fountain, which is used for ablution (ritual washing) before prayer.
Prayer Times at the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is open to visitors from 8:30am to 12pm, and from 1:30pm to 6pm daily. During these times, visitors are welcome to observe the prayer times, which occur five times a day. The prayer times are determined by the position of the sun, and can vary throughout the year. The prayer times at the Blue Mosque are as follows:
- Fajr: 5:00am
- Dhuhr: 12:30pm
- Asr: 4:00pm
- Maghrib: 6:30pm
- Isha: 8:00pm
Prayer at the Blue Mosque
When visiting the Blue Mosque, it is important to remember that it is a place of worship and should be treated with respect. Visitors should be aware that during prayer times, the mosque is a very busy place and should not enter until the prayers have finished. Visitors should also dress modestly, with arms and legs covered, and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
Final Thoughts
The Blue Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, and a visit during prayer time is a truly special experience. It is a place of peace and reverence, and visitors should be mindful of this when visiting. Whether you are observing the prayer times or simply admiring the stunning architecture, the Blue Mosque is sure to leave you in awe.
