The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is an iconic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I who commissioned its construction. Built between 1609 and 1616, the mosque was designed by the renowned Ottoman architect Mehmed Agha and is considered one of the most important examples of the classical Ottoman style of architecture.
History of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was constructed as a part of a larger project initiated by Sultan Ahmed I, which included a madrasa, a hospital, and a market. The mosque was built on the site of a palace that had been built by the Byzantine emperor Constantine V, and was designed to be the most important mosque in the city.
The mosque was built with six minarets, which was unusual for a mosque of that time period. The exterior walls were decorated with Iznik tiles, which were painted in shades of blue and turquoise, giving the mosque its name.
Architecture of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is an example of classical Ottoman architecture. The mosque is built on a large square plan, with a central dome surrounded by four smaller domes. The walls are made of stone, and are decorated with calligraphic inscriptions, and stained glass windows.
The mosque is also decorated with numerous Iznik tiles, which are painted in shades of blue, turquoise, and green. These tiles cover the walls, columns, and domes of the mosque, creating a beautiful and unique aesthetic.
Features of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque has a number of features that make it a unique and impressive structure. The mosque has six minarets, which is a unique feature for a mosque of that period. The mosque also has a large courtyard, which is used for prayer and worship. The courtyard is surrounded by a portico, which is decorated with Iznik tiles.
Inside the mosque, there is a large prayer hall, which is adorned with calligraphic inscriptions, stained glass windows, and Iznik tiles. The prayer hall also contains a number of tombs, which are dedicated to Ottoman sultans and other important figures.
Visiting the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is open to visitors throughout the year. It is free to visit, and visitors can explore the mosque and its courtyard. The mosque also offers guided tours, which provide more information about the history and architecture of the building.
Tips for Visiting the Blue Mosque
- Make sure to dress appropriately for your visit. The mosque has a strict dress code, and visitors must be dressed modestly. Women must also cover their heads.
- The mosque can get very crowded, so it is best to arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
- Photography is allowed inside the mosque, but make sure to ask permission before taking any pictures.
Conclusion
The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic structures in Istanbul, and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. With its stunning architecture, beautiful Iznik tiles, and rich history, the Blue Mosque is an impressive and unforgettable sight.