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The Blue Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world
and one of very few to have six minarets. Photo © Helen Betts.
See many more views in our Blue Mosque Photo Gallery.
Side view of the Blue Mosque at dawn. Photo
Tim O'Brien.
Rear (east) view of the exterior. Photo
cactusbones.
The Blue Mosque's magical cascading domes. Photo © Helen Betts.
The Blue Mosque at night during Ramadan. Photo
khoogheem.
Sweeping view of the interior. Photo © Damon Lynch.
A beautifully tiled dome in the Blue Mosque. Photo © Helen Betts.
More exquisite blue tiles that give the mosque its name. © Helen Betts.
Detail of tiles and windows of a dome. Photo © Helen Betts.
Side view with one of the minarets. Photo
David Bjorgen.The cascading domes and six slender minarets of the Sultanahmet Mosque (better known as the "Blue Mosque") dominate the skyline of Istanbul.
In the 17th century, Sultan Ahmet I wished to build an Islamic place of worship to rival the Hagia Sophia, and the mosque named for him is the impressive result. The two great architectural achievements stand next to each other in Istanbul's main square, and it is up to visitors to decide which is more impressive.
History
The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I as a rival to Hagia Sophia and designed by architect Mehmet Aga (Aga's unfortunate predecessor was fired - i.e., executed).
Construction on the mosque began in 1609 and took seven years. Sultan Ahmet died only a year after the completion of his masterpiece, at the age of 27. He is buried just outside the mosque with his wife and three sons.
What to See
One of the most notable features of the Blue Mosque is visible from far away: its six minarets. This is very unique, as most mosques have four, two or just one minaret. According to one account, the Sultan directed his architect to make gold (altin) minarets, which was misunderstood as six (alti) minarets.
Whatever the origins of the unique feature, the six minarets caused quite a scandal, as the Haram Mosque in Mecca (the holiest in the world) also had six minarets. In the end, the problem was solved by adding a seventh minaret to Mecca's mosque.
The other striking feature of the exterior is the beautifully-arranged cascade of domes that seem to spill down from the great central dome. The arcades running beneath each dome add further visual rhythm. None of the exterior is blue - the name "Blue Mosque" comes from the blue tiles inside.
The main, west entrance is beautifully decorated and very much worth a look. However, to preserve the mosque's sanctity, non-worshippers are required to use the north entrance, off the Hippodrome. Hanging from this gate are symbolic chains that encourage everyone, even the sultan on horseback, to bow his or her head upon entering.
The interior's high ceiling is lined with about 20,000 blue tiles that give the mosque its popular name. Fine examples of 16th-century Iznik design, the tiles feature flowers, trees and abstract patterns. The overall effect is one of the most beautiful sights in Istanbul.
On summer evenings at 9pm, there is a historical narrative and a light show at the Blue Mosque.
Tips for Visiting
Tourists must enter through the north gate and remove their shoes at the entrance (plastic bags for shoes are provided). Modest dress is required for both men and women and women must cover their heads. Wraps are provided when deemed necessary by mosque officials.
Quick Facts
| Names: | Blue Mosque; Sultanahmet Camii; Sultanahmet Mosque |
| Type of site: | Mosque |
| Dates: | 1609-1616 |
| Architecture: | Ottoman |
| Architect: | Mehmet Aga |
| Status: | Active |
| Location: | Next to the Hagia Sophia in central Istanbul, Turkey |
| Phone: | (0212) 518 1319 |
| Open: | 9am-6pm, except during daily prayer times (about a half-hour, five times daily) and midday on Fridays |
| Cost: | Free |
Travel Resources
- Istanbul Map - our own interactive city map plus links to more online maps
- Guided Tours of Istanbul - sightseeing tours, activities, day trips
- Istanbul Hostels - search and book budget lodgings
- Istanbul Hotel Reviews - the real truth on hotels from fellow travelers
- Istanbul Car Rentals - explore Turkey with a car picked up in Istanbul
- Istanbul Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Istanbul
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Article Sources
- Frommer's Turkey: From the Blue Mosque to the Blue Lagoon, 3rd Edition (2004).
- Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey - Turkey Travel Planner
More Information
- Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) - TripAdvisor
Reviews and photos from fellow travelers - Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque) - Columbus Guides
Brief, informative description and visitor information. - Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque) - Istanbul Info Link
History, description, and two nice photos. - Blue Mosque - Around the World in 80 Clicks
Nice account of the mosque's beauty and features, with lovely photos. - Henry Matthews, Mosques of Istanbul (2005).
Location Map
Location map and satellite view of the Blue Mosque. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Istanbul Map or get our Google Earth download.
