Blue mosque istanbul

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, is an Ottoman icon with six minarets and over 20,000 blue tiles.

About this subject

The Blue Mosque, officially known as Sultanahmet Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 under the order of Sultan Ahmed I. The architect was Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, a pupil of the renowned Mimar Sinan. The mosque is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, Turkey, facing the Hagia Sophia, forming one of the city's most iconic vistas. Its popular name 'Blue Mosque' comes from the thousands of Iznik tiles adorning its interior, predominantly in blue and green tones. It stands as a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, blending Islamic and Byzantine elements.

The most striking feature is its six minarets, a number that sparked controversy at the time because the Great Mosque of Mecca then had only six. To resolve this, the sultan funded a seventh minaret for Mecca's mosque, preserving its supremacy. The interior is illuminated by 260 windows, many with stained glass, creating a soft light effect over the red carpets and tiles. The central dome is 43 meters high and 23.5 meters in diameter, supported by four massive pillars nicknamed 'elephant feet'. The courtyard has an ablution fountain and an iron chain that forces riders to duck when entering, symbolizing humility.

The Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship, with five daily prayers, but also receives millions of tourists each year. During prayer times, visitors must observe silence and proper dress. The complex includes a madrasa, a hospital, and a covered market, typical of Ottoman külliyes. The monument has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 as part of the 'Historic Areas of Istanbul'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Blue Mosque?

The popular name comes from the thousands of blue Iznik tiles decorating the interior. Although officially named Sultanahmet Mosque, the predominant blue hue gave rise to the nickname.

How many minarets does the Blue Mosque have and why was that controversial?

The mosque has six minarets. At the time of construction, only the Great Mosque of Mecca had six, causing controversy. Sultan Ahmed I resolved it by funding a seventh minaret for Mecca, preserving its superiority.

Is the Blue Mosque still used for prayers?

Yes, the mosque is an active place of worship. The five daily prayers are held regularly, and visitors are allowed outside prayer times. During prayers, entry is restricted to worshippers.