The Sultanahmet Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish, is a beautiful and majestic Ottoman-era mosque located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, Turkey. Built between 1609 and 1616, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. The mosque is named for its stunning blue-tiled interior, and is an important part of Istanbul’s cultural and architectural history.
History of the Sultanahmet Blue Mosque
The Sultanahmet Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, and was designed by the imperial architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa. Construction began in 1609 and was completed in 1616, making it one of the oldest mosques in Istanbul. The mosque was built to commemorate the Sultan’s victory in the Battle of Chaldiran in 1514, and was the first large imperial mosque to be built in the city since the Conquest of Istanbul in 1453.
The mosque is constructed of stone, marble, and brick, and its exterior is decorated with calligraphic inscriptions, tiles, and stone carvings. The mosque’s most distinctive feature is its interior, which is decorated with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, giving it its popular name. The tiles are arranged in intricate geometric and floral patterns, and are lit up by 260 stained glass windows.
Architecture and Design of the Sultanahmet Blue Mosque
The Sultanahmet Blue Mosque is an example of classical Ottoman architecture, with its six minarets, domes, and courtyards. The mosque is surrounded by four large courtyards, with the outer courtyard being the largest and most impressive. The mosque itself is surrounded by a portico with five domes, which are supported by four columns.
The interior of the mosque is dominated by the mihrab, a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca, and the minbar, a wooden pulpit from which the Imam delivers sermons. The walls of the mosque are decorated with Iznik tiles, and the ceiling is painted with floral and geometric designs. The main dome of the mosque is covered with 24 carat gold leaf, and the floor is covered with carpets and rugs.
The Sultanahmet Blue Mosque Today
Today, the Sultanahmet Blue Mosque is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, and is a major cultural and architectural landmark in the city. The mosque is open to visitors, and offers guided tours, which include explanations of the mosque’s history, architecture, and artwork. The mosque is also a place of worship for Muslims, and the call to prayer can be heard five times a day.
Practical Information
- Opening hours: 9am-7pm daily
- Address: Sultanahmet Meydanı, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
- Admission: Free
The Sultanahmet Blue Mosque is a stunning and iconic landmark in Istanbul, and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. With its beautiful interior, rich history, and architectural significance, the Sultanahmet Blue Mosque is sure to be a memorable experience.