Blue mosque istanbul

The Blue Mosque of Istanbul, officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a 17th-century Ottoman architectural icon, renowned for its six minarets and blue tiles.

About this subject

The Blue Mosque, officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, then a young ruler, to reassert Ottoman power after military setbacks. The architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a pupil of the legendary Mimar Sinan, designed the structure blending Byzantine and Islamic elements. The central dome is 23.5 meters in diameter and 43 meters high, supported by four massive pillars. Its popular name "Blue" derives from over 20,000 Iznik tiles lining the interior, predominantly in blue and green tones with floral and calligraphic patterns. It is one of the few mosques in the world with six minarets, which at the time sparked controversy because the Great Mosque of Mecca also had six; Ahmed I resolved it by funding a seventh minaret for Mecca. The complex includes a hospital, a madrasa, and a market. Today, the mosque remains active for prayers and is one of Istanbul's most visited tourist attractions, located in Sultanahmet Square facing Hagia Sophia. At sunset, the sight of the six illuminated minarets against the night sky is a common subject for long-exposure photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Blue Mosque have six minarets?

The six minarets were a gesture of grandeur by Sultan Ahmed I, but they sparked controversy because the Great Mosque of Mecca also had six. To resolve this, Ahmed I financed a seventh minaret for the Mecca mosque.

What is the best time to visit the Blue Mosque?

The mosque is closed to tourists during prayer times (about 30 minutes, five times a day). The best time is early morning after opening or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

Is the Blue Mosque free to enter?

Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome. Visitors must cover shoulders and knees, and women must wear a headscarf (provided at the entrance).