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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

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About Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

About Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance, it is a masterpiece of Islamic and Ottoman design. The mosque gets its nickname from the thousands of blue tiles that adorn its interior.

Historical Background

  • Construction: The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and built between 1609 and 1616. The architect, Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, was a student of the famous Mimar Sinan.
  • Purpose: The mosque was constructed to reassert Ottoman power after the Peace of Zsitvatorok, which ended the Long Turkish War with Austria and was seen as a setback for the empire.
  • Architectural Influence: The design of the Blue Mosque combines elements of Byzantine architecture from the nearby Hagia Sophia with traditional Islamic architecture.

Architectural Highlights

  1. Exterior:
    • Minarets: The mosque features six minarets, a rare feature at the time of its construction. Legend has it that this was a result of a misunderstanding between the sultan and the architect.
    • Courtyard: The large courtyard is surrounded by a continuous vaulted arcade and features a central fountain for ablutions.
    • Domes: The mosque has a cascade of domes, with the central dome reaching a height of 43 meters (141 feet) and a diameter of 23.5 meters (77 feet).
  2. Interior:
    • Blue Tiles: The interior is adorned with over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles in more than 50 different tulip designs. The tiles are predominantly blue, giving the mosque its nickname.
    • Calligraphy: The walls are decorated with beautiful calligraphy, featuring verses from the Quran and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad.
    • Stained Glass Windows: The mosque has over 200 stained glass windows that allow natural light to filter in, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
    • Mihrab and Minbar: The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) are intricately carved from white marble and are masterpieces of Ottoman craftsmanship.
  3. Lighting:
    • The mosque is illuminated by hundreds of lamps, which were originally fueled by oil. Today, they are electric but still evoke the historical ambiance.

Visiting the Blue Mosque

Opening Hours:

  • The mosque is open to visitors outside of the five daily Muslim prayer times. It is closed to non-worshippers during these times.
  • General Visiting Hours: Typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but these can vary, especially during religious holidays.

Admission:

  • Free Entry: There is no admission fee to enter the Blue Mosque.

Dress Code:

  • Modest Dress: As a place of worship, visitors are required to dress modestly. Women should cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.
  • Shoes: Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the carpeted prayer areas. Shoe bags are usually provided.

Guided Tours:

  • Guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and significance of the Blue Mosque. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages.

Nearby Attractions

  • Hagia Sophia: Just a short walk from the Blue Mosque, this architectural marvel is a must-see.
  • Topkapi Palace: Another iconic landmark located nearby, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans.
  • Basilica Cistern: An ancient underground water reservoir with a mysterious atmosphere, located nearby.
  • Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, perfect for shopping and experiencing local culture.

The Blue Mosque is a testament to the rich and complex history of Istanbul, blending elements of Islamic and Byzantine heritage. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Istanbul.

Getting There

Location: The Blue Mosque is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, near other major attractions like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.

Address: Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

By Public Transport:

  • Tram: Take the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line and get off at the Sultanahmet stop. The Blue Mosque is just a short walk from the tram stop.
  • Bus: Various bus lines stop near Sultanahmet. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option.
  • Ferry: If you’re coming from the Asian side or other parts of the city, take a ferry to Eminönü and then a tram or a short walk to the Blue Mosque.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing:

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber or BiTaksi are widely available in Istanbul. Simply input “Blue Mosque” or “Sultan Ahmed Mosque” as your destination.

On Foot:

  • If you’re staying in the Sultanahmet area, the Blue Mosque is within walking distance from most hotels and major landmarks.

What To Do

  1. Admire the Architecture:
    • Marvel at the mosque’s stunning exterior, featuring six minarets, a cascade of domes, and a large courtyard with a central fountain.
  2. Explore the Interior:
    • Blue Tiles: Admire the over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles in more than 50 different tulip designs, predominantly blue, which give the mosque its nickname.
    • Calligraphy: Notice the beautiful calligraphy featuring verses from the Quran and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad.
    • Stained Glass Windows: Enjoy the natural light filtering through over 200 stained glass windows.
    • Mihrab and Minbar: Appreciate the intricately carved white marble mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit).
  3. Visit the Courtyard:
    • The large courtyard is surrounded by a continuous vaulted arcade and features a central fountain for ablutions. It’s a peaceful place to relax and take in the surroundings.
  4. Learn About the History:
    • Take a guided tour or use an audio guide to learn about the rich history of the Blue Mosque, from its construction to its significance in Islamic and Ottoman culture.
  5. Respect the Religious Significance:
    • As a functioning mosque, the Blue Mosque is a place of worship. Be mindful of the religious practices and respect the space, especially during prayer times.

Some Tips

  1. Dress Modestly:
    • As a place of worship, modest dress is required. Women should cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.
  2. Remove Shoes:
    • Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the carpeted prayer areas. Shoe bags are usually provided.
  3. Photography:
    • Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash and be respectful of people praying.
  4. Stay Hydrated:
    • Bring a water bottle, especially during the warmer months.
  5. Plan Your Visit:
    • Allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit to fully explore the interior and appreciate the architecture and art.
  6. Guided Tours:
    • Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide to get the most out of your visit. The history and significance of the Blue Mosque are vast, and a guide can provide valuable insights.

Best Time To Visit

  • Early Morning: Arrive right when the mosque opens (usually around 9:00 AM) to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Late Afternoon: Visiting in the late afternoon can also be a good option, as the crowds tend to thin out. The lighting is also great for photography.
  • Avoid Prayer Times: Since the Blue Mosque is a functioning mosque, it is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily Muslim prayer times. Check the prayer times in advance and plan your visit accordingly.