The Blue Mosque interiors are filled with İznik tiles. These tiles adorn all its walls, pillars, and domes. These hand-painted tiles feature intricate floral patterns, geometric designs, and calligraphy.
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul is known for its 6 minarets and blue Iznik tiles, which sets it apart from all other mosques in Istanbul. Sultan Ahmed I commissioned the construction of the monument in 1609 and the structure was completed in 1617 under architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha. The Blue Mosque's interior is a fusion of traditional Byzantine elements with Ottoman fixtures. The mosque is a standing testament to the changing tides of history, surviving the rise and fall of empires, political shifts, and cultural transformations.
Several blue Iznik tiles adorn the Blue Mosque interior, which has given the monument its name.
Look out for soaring domes, intricate calligraphy, and exquisite details that showcase the pinnacle of Ottoman artistry inside the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. As you step inside the Sultanahmet Mosque, the vast prayer hall unfolds before you bathed in a soft, ethereal glow.
You do not need to purchase entry tickets to enter the Blue Mosque. It welcomes visitors free of charge throughout the year. However, if you want to hear interesting anecdotes, and history snippets, and delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of the mosque, we recommend booking Blue Mosque tours. An expert English-speaking tour guide will take you around the mosque and share interesting stories about its origination and journey through the years. The tour also includes a walk through the Old City surrounding the monument.
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Blue Mosque Guided Tour
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Tickets
Combo: Guided Tour of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace
Combo (Save 10%): Blue Mosque Guided Tour + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
Inside the Blue Mosque, you will find a breathtaking display of İznik tiles, a grand prayer hall with a central dome, intricate calligraphy, stained glass windows, and a serene atmosphere.
Yes, you can book Blue Mosque guided tours to tour the interiors of the mosque. They include a 1-hour tour of the mosque along with a walk through the Old City. You can also get additional discounts if you purchase combo tickets that admit entry to both Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
The Blue Mosque is an impressive architectural marvel that covers a significant area. The main building covers an area of around 47,164 sq. ft. It includes the prayer hall, domes, courtyards, and surrounding areas.
Yes, you can click pictures inside the Blue Mosque, but please refrain from using commercial equipment like tripods or flash photography as they may disturb other worshippers.
Yes, you can enter the Blue Mosque for free throughout the year. However, if you want to learn about its rich history and culture, it is best to book Blue Mosque tours, which also include a walk through the Old City surrounding the monument.
The Blue Mosque had been commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, who sought to create an architectural marvel, that would rival the splendor of the nearby Hagia Sophia. The mosque was designed by the architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, who was a student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.
The Blue Mosque is situated on Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 in Istanbul, Turkey.
The construction of the Blue Mosque began under the direction of Sedefkar Mehmed Agha around 1609 and was completed in 1617. The entire construction was completed within the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, which is also why the mosque is locally known as the Sultanahmet Mosque.
Yes, if you are interested in Turkish history and Ottoman architecture, the Blue Mosque is a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. While the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, it is open to visitors from all over the world. You can explore its fine architectural details and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
