The Blue Mosque is an iconic landmark located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The mosque was built in the 17th century and is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is famous for its six minarets, its magnificent interior and its beautiful blue tiles.
History of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I in 1609 and was completed in 1616. It was designed by Sedefkar Mehmet Aga, who was a student of the famous Ottoman architect Sinan. The mosque was built to commemorate the sultan’s victory in the Battle of Chaldiran in 1514. The mosque is named after the blue tiles that adorn its interior walls.
Features of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. It is an impressive structure with six minarets, one main dome, four half-domes and numerous smaller domes. The interior walls are covered with thousands of blue tiles, which is why it is also known as the Blue Mosque. The mosque also has a large courtyard and a mihrab, which is a niche that indicates the direction of Mecca.
Visiting the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is open to visitors every day except for Fridays. On Fridays, the mosque is only open to Muslims for prayer. Visitors must also be aware that the mosque is still an active place of worship and should dress and behave appropriately. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque and visitors should not take photographs during prayer times.
Nearby Attractions
The Blue Mosque is located in the historic Sultanahmet district of Istanbul and is surrounded by other popular attractions. Nearby is the Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, which was the home of the Ottoman sultans. There are also several nearby markets and bazaars where visitors can shop for souvenirs and local crafts.
Conclusion
The Blue Mosque is an iconic landmark located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and is renowned for its beautiful blue tiles. The mosque is open to visitors every day except for Fridays and is surrounded by other popular attractions, including the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. The Blue Mosque is an unforgettable experience for any traveler to Istanbul.