ADDRESS
Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
RECOMMENDED DURATION
2 hours
Timings
09:00–18:00
VISITORS PER YEAR
4500000
TICKETS
From $18.91
NUMBER OF ENTRANCES
3
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
UNESCO YEAR
1985
An interesting legend surrounds the unusual six minarets of the Mosque. Sultan Ahmed wanted them in gold, but the architect misheard it as six, given the words in Turkish for both sound similar. Since only the Prophet’s Mosque in Mecca had six minarets, it is believed that the Sultan avoided controversy by commissioning a 7th minaret in the Mecca Mosque, to maintain its supremacy.
The Blue Mosque gets its popular name from the beautiful blue Iznik tiles that adorn its ceiling. The tiles come from Iznik in Turkey famous for its pottery. Handpainted with floral motifs and incredible calligraphy, these 20,000 blue tiles make the interiors an absolutely stunning sight.
A teenage sultan, Ahmed, wanted his legacy to shine in the Ottoman narrative; the chances of which were slim given his numerous military defeats. The Blue Mosque was his trump card and he was resolved to finish it despite a declining social situation and much opposition. He even took part in the construction of the Mosque on the first day.
The Blue Mosque, also popularly known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, is a stunning reminder of the prosperous Ottoman era. It had been commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, who reigned from 1603 to 1617 when the Ottoman reign was at its peak.
The Blue Mosque showcases a fusion of two architectural styles, blending traditional Ottoman architecture with elements borrowed from the Byzantine era. One of the mosque's distinctive features is its 6 minarets, which make it stand out from other mosques in Istanbul. These minarets serve the practical purpose of amplifying the call to prayer and contribute significantly to the mosque's imposing silhouette. The courtyard also has arching domes and semi-domes that enhance the splendor of the mosque.
The interior of the Blue Mosque is adorned with over 20,000 Iznik tiles, which give the mosque its popular name. These blue tiles, along with intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, create a stunning visual display, adding to the mosque's grandeur and elegance. The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) are crafted from exquisite marble, with elegant calligraphy inscriptions adorning its walls.
A spacious courtyard precedes the prayer hall, providing a serene space for ablutions and gatherings. Hundreds of windows are added to the domes and prayer halls, allowing for natural light to flood the interior, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.
The Blue Mosque, with its 6 minarets and grand Central Dome, is one of the most famous architectural marvels in Istanbul. Its architecture is a fusion of Ottoman and Byzantine styles.
No, you do not need entry tickets to enter the Blue Mosque. If you want to book Blue Mosque guided tours, you have to purchase a ticket.
No, you do not need to purchase tickets to enter the Blue Mosque. However, if you want to delve deeper into the rich heritage of the mosque, you may opt for Blue Mosque guided tours. It is best to book guided tour tickets online in advance.
The Blue Mosque is located on Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 in Istanbul, Turkey.
The Blue Mosque is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day throughout the year. It is closed only during prayer times and noon Friday prayers. Look out for Blue Mosque's prayer times when planning a visit.
We recommend you visit the Blue Mosque early in the morning, between 9 AM to 11:30 AM. The atmosphere is relatively calm and there are lesser crowds. You will be able to explore its interiors to the fullest.
Ottoman Emperor Sultan Ahmed I commissioned the construction of the Blue Mosque because he wanted to showcase the architectural splendor of the Ottomans and create a monument that would rival the nearby Hagia Sophia. The mosque’s grand design, intricate details, and unique fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman elements showcase the artistic splendor of the Ottoman Empire.
The Blue Mosque had been constructed between 1609 to 1616. It has been standing as a stunning remnant of the Ottoman Empire’s glory for the last 414 years.
The blue Iznik tiles adorning the Blue Mosque's interiors have given the mosque its name. The mosque’s 6 minarets also make it stand out from the other monuments in Istanbul. It is said that the minarets were constructed due to a misunderstanding and to curb the backlash he received from the public, the Sultan had to construct another minaret at the Prophet’s mosque.
When visiting the Blue Mosque, look out for its blue Iznik tiles, grand Central Dome, and 6 minarets. These architectural details are a fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman styles. Make sure to also look at its Mihrab, Minrab, and walk through its spacious courtyard to get a feel of the opulence of the Ottoman era.
The main Blue Mosque entrance is located on the northern side of the structure, facing the Hippodrome. The western entrance is situated opposite the Hagia Sophia. This entrance is the most recognizable gate, offering access to wheelchair visitors and a shorter walk to the inner courtyard. The Sultanahmet Mosque also has a gate towards the southern side. You can access it by following signs from the main entrance and taking a right turn to reach the south door.
No, the Blue Mosque is not typically open at night. The mosque is open from 9 am to 6 pm throughout the year. It is only closed during prayer hours.
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Blue Mosque Guided Tour with Options
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Tickets
Combo (Save 5%): Blue Mosque Guided Tour + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
