Blue Mosque | Six Minarets, Ornate Tiles, & A Feast for the Eyes
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Istanbul. The mosque was originally designed for Sultan Ahmed I and is now home to the Sultan’s tomb, a hospice, as well as a madrasah. Upon entering the Blue Mosque, you will be greeted by a vast prayer hall, adorned with blue Iznik tiles. These intricate tiles feature floral designs and calligraphy and showcase the artistic mastery of the Ottoman era. Its soaring domes and semi-domes are iconic relics from the Ottoman period. The soft lighting filtering through the intricately designed stained glass windows adds to the serene ambiance.
Quick Facts About Blue Mosque
Also Known As: Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Location: Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey
Date of Opening: 1616
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Architect: Sedefkar, Mehmed Agha
Architectural Style: Ottoman
UNESCO World Heritage Site: 2015
Number of Visitors Per Year: 4 to 5 million
Why Visit Blue Mosque?
- Ottoman Architecture: The Blue Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, with its stunning domes, intricate tilework, and grand design. The blue Iznik tiles, featuring floral designs, are one of its signature details, that have given the mosque its name. If you love art and architecture, the Blue Mosque is a must-visit.
- Turkish Heritage: The mosque is a symbol of Turkey's rich cultural heritage and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire. It provides a window into the country's history, traditions, and Islamic artistry. Exploring its walls would allow you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the stories and legends of the past.
- Serene Atmosphere: Whether you are a devout Muslim or someone seeking a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, the Blue Mosque offers a serene environment for prayer, reflection, and connecting with the higher self. To make sure that you get a few uninterrupted hours at the mosque, reach early in the morning.
Plan Your Visit to Blue Mosque
- Daily: 9 AM to 5 PM
- Closed: Around 90 mins each prayer time and 2 hours during Friday noon prayers
Note: Blue Mosque is an active mosque, that remains open to worshippers throughout the year. Other than the prayer hours, you can enter anytime you want.
Address: Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey
- By Bus: 28, 30D, BN1, EM1
Nearest Stop: Catladikapi- Eminonu (Sahil) Yonu - By Train: Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) and Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze)
Nearest Station: Sirkeci - By Metro: M2
Nearest Station: Sultanahmet - By Tram: T1
Nearest Station: Cemberlitas - By Car: The distance from Istanbul Airport is 45.4 km.
Nearest Parking: Sultanahmet Selim parking property, Sports Car Park
Things to See at Blue Mosque
Iznik Tiles
The mosque is famous for its exquisite İznik tiles, featuring intricate floral patterns and calligraphy. Take the time and admire the stunning blue tiles that adorn the walls, pillars, and domes, taking visitors on a trip down the Ottoman reign in Turkey.
Prayer Hall
Upon entering the Blue Mosque, you will come across a spacious courtyard. The prayer hall is right after that, at the heart of the mosque, featuring high ceilings and impressive domes. The domes and semi-domes are signature elements of Ottoman architecture.
Mihrab
The mihrab is a beautifully decorated niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca (qibla). Adorned with intricate calligraphy and decorative elements, it is a significant focal point within the mosque. It was used by imams to lead a prayer.
Minbar
The minbar is a pulpit from where the khatib (preacher) delivered his sermons. This intricately carved piece showcases the craftsmanship of the Ottoman period and adds to the architectural splendor of the Blue Mosque.
Central Dome
The central dome is a remarkable feature of the Blue Mosque, supported by four large columns, creating a sense of depth and grandeur within the mosque. As you explore it closely, you will see intricate floral designs and calligraphy on its surface.
Stained Glass Windows
The mosque's interior is adorned with stained glass windows. During golden hours, it filters the sunlight in soft, colorful hues, illuminating the courtyard and interiors. These windows add to the ambiance and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the mosque.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Mosque
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 5 PM every day throughout the year. It is closed only during prayer times and noon Friday prayers.
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 its 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.
