The Sultanahmet Mosque, or the Blue Mosque, is an architectural marvel showcasing the grandeur of Ottoman design. Constructed by architect Mehmet Ağa between 1609 and 1616, it was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I to stand alongside the iconic Hagia Sophia in magnificence.
Its design includes a massive central dome, 23.5 meters in diameter and reaching a height of 43 meters, surrounded by a series of semi-domes and supported by four massive pillars known as “elephant feet.” The interior is decorated with over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles, which feature elegant floral motifs of tulips, roses, carnations, and lilies, casting a serene blue glow through the mosque’s 260 stained glass windows. This luminous interior creates a tranquil yet majestic atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries.
One distinguishing aspect of the Blue Mosque is its six minarets, a feature that was initially controversial due to its association with the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque in Mecca, which also had six minarets at the time. Legend has it that this resulted from a misunderstanding of the Sultan’s decree for Altın Minaret (gold minarets) as Altı Minaret (six Minarets). This was later resolved by adding a seventh minaret to the Mosque in Mecca.
As a functional Mosque, the Blue Mosque is closed to tourists during prayer times but generally welcomes visitors from 9 am until dusk each day, excluding 90 minutes during prayer times and two hours during Friday noon prayers. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, with shawls and outer garments available at the entrance if needed.
The outside of the mosque’s area also features the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, the Grand Bazaar, and several significant historical structures, making it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Source: Istanbul Tour Studio , Shafaqna English
Photo source: Wikipedia