The Mosques of Istanbul
History Facts
When: Constructed in the Ottoman Period (15 – 19th Century)
Where: Istanbul, Turkey
History: Ornate marbling and Iznik coloured tiles
Don’t Miss: Stunning dazzling views from outside and in.
The mosques of Istanbul contain some of the greatest architecture in the world and are made of the world’s finest and most rare marbles, and exceptionally ornate tiling.
New Mosque Istanbul
Constructed in the name of Valide Sultan, New Mosque is not exactly new. Although the name suggests otherwise, this Istanbul Mosque is 350 years old. Does it sound new now? In Turkish, the translation would be Yeni Camii (New Mosque). Located at the southern end of the Galata Bridge, it is one of the famous architectural landmarks of Istanbul. This Istanbul Mosque also acts as a landmark for the Golden Horn and vice versa. The interior of the mosque has great examples of Ottoman tile work, known as İznik tiles (blue tiles that bear the name of the town from where they are made) – but, the best samples of İznik tiles can be seen in Rüstem Pasha. Similar to the others, New Mosque Istanbul was designed as a complex with adjacent structures to cater to both religious and cultural needs. Today, the large L-shaped market within the mosque survives as the Spice Bazaar.
SELIMYE CAMII
The greatest of all Ottoman mosques and the masterpiece of the architect Mimar Sinan. Built for Sultan Selim II, Selimiye Cammii is considered far superior to any other mosque. It was described by Corbusier as one of the hundred greatest buildings in the world. It’s large low dome has fantastic acoustics.Five times a day, the muezzin would climb the tower known as the minret to call the faithful to prayer. Nowadays, the Muezzin has been replacaed by tapes and loudspeakers.
BLUE MOSQUE
Sultan Ahmet Camii is known as the Blue Mosque because of its striking colours. As striking from the outside as within, its pale stone dazzles in the noon day sunlight. It was built as a rival mosque to Aya Sophia. Many of the blue tiles have been damaged by earthquakes and repainted. They were made in the mid 16th century, the great era for Iznik tiles,
After this time the inherited skills were lost. There are designs of 40 types of tulips on the blue tiles. Today you can buy copies of Iznik tiles mass-produced outside the Mosque.
RUSTEM PASA
Rustem Pasa is Istanbul’s piece de la resistance of Mosques and little visited by tourists. It has some of the best made Iznik tiles inside and out. There is always a place outside of the mosque for latecomers to pray.
Suleymaniye Mosque
This mosque Pierces the skies on the Golden Horn with an impressive dome of 53 metres. A stone’s throw away from the gates of Istanbul University, this spectacular structure is an emblem of the city skyline. Commissioned by the Sultan, Suleiman the Magnificent, Suleymaniye Mosque was one of the most important of the Ottoman empire. Built in the 16th century by the great Ottoman architect, Mimar Sinan, Suleymaine Mosque served as much more than a place of worship. A hospital, library, madrasa (Islamic college), kitchen and hospice for the poor all featured within its grounds. A stroll around the grand courtyards and regal gardens, give you a real taste of imperial life. Keep your eyes peeled for the ivory-inlaid panels in Suleiman’s tomb, and the intricate tiling surrounding its entrance.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
One of the oldest examples on this list started life as a Greek patriarchal cathedral of Constantinople. In 537 AD it was converted into a mosque by the Moors. To this day Hagia Sophia is considered one of the greatest houses of worship. Every year thousands flock to this museum to see the pinnacle of 6th century Byzantine culture. Meander through its vast interior, illuminated by 40 arched windows, to savour what was once the biggest dome structure in the world. This title was taken by the Florence Cathedral 900 years later. This feat of Byzantine engineering is truly unmissable when on a trip to Istanbul.
Originally a church , then a mosque, then neither and now a mosque again Haghia Sofia tells the story of Istanbul and its intertwined Christian and Moslem history.
Destination – Turkey
