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Blue Mosque

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Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.

The Blue Mosque is a prominent part of view of the Istanbul skyline. Constructed under Sultan Ahmed I, it was finished in 1616. Its designer's vision was to display the Islamic faith central to the Ottoman Empire in this massive site of worship.

Approach from the direction of the Hippodrome to best appreciate the grandeur of the architecture. There are six minarets and a number of soaring domes, making for a enormously striking spectacle.

Go through the encircling wall into the courtyard – this area is very busy after sunset during the fast of Ramadan. The madrasa Islamic school and the hospice can be found here, as can the tomb of the man for whom the mosque is named, Sultan Ahmed I, who died just one year after its completion in 1617.

The main claim to fame of the Blue Mosque is to be found in the 20,000 blue ceramic tiles adorning the interior with over 50 distinct tulip images. The upper part of the building is also painted blue, and the kaleidoscope of light provided by the stained glass windows above is a sight to behold.

Entry to the mosque is free, but donations for its upkeep are welcomed. As it is continuously in use as a religious site of worship, there are a number of practices visitors are asked to respect. Silent and discreet behaviour should be observed, with no flash photography permitted. You should remove your shoes before entering and place them in one of the plastic bags which are available. Women are asked to cover their hair with a scarf.

The mosque is served by the nearby Sultanahmet light rail and metro station in the Old City. The Blue Mosque is closed five times a day for prayer. In summer there are evening history classes on the site, and also breathtaking light shows – check the website before your visit.

Popular Activities at Blue Mosque

You'll find it hard to believe how much there is to do at Blue Mosque. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

For more activities, examine our Istanbul things to do page.

Guide to Exploring Blue Mosque

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.

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Hippodrome (Hipodrom)

Stroll around this fascinating urban park to take a step back in time and admire the culture of old Constantinople.

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Topkapi Palace

Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.

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Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Standing for over 650 years, this imposing cylindrical lookout point continues to offer special views over the city of Istanbul.

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Dolmabahce Palace

A monument to the opulence of the rulers of the Ottoman Empire, with a notable clock tower, gardens and mosque.

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Süleymaniye Mosque

Admire the stunning exterior architecture and captivating interior design of the grandest mosque in Istanbul.

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Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

'The Sunken Palace' is the biggest of the hundreds of underground reservoirs underneath the streets of Istanbul, dating from Byzantine Constantinople.

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Bosphorus Bridge

Travel from Europe to Asia on the first bridge to connect the two continents, admire the bridge from below during a cruise and visit centuries-old buildings.
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Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

Visit the stunningly beautiful museum and admire the magnificent mosaics and intricate frescoes adorning the walls of this ancient church.

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Beylerbeyi Palace (Beylerbeyi Sarayi)

Dating back to the 10th century, and used as the Imperial Ottoman summer palace, the sumptuous design and wonderful location of this beautiful building are a treat.

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Miniaturk

Visit this enchanting theme park to explore the cream of Turkey’s most famous buildings – all from the comfort of one miniature location.

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Rüstem Pasha Mosque

Nearly 500 years old, this secret treasure of spectacular tiles lies hidden in the middle of the Fatih district market.

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Galata Bridge

Walk across this historic bridge to spot famous Istanbul landmarks and watch the sunset from a bar full of Turkish men contemplating life while sharing a water pipe.
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Gülhane Park

Visit this central park to take leisurely strolls through rose gardens, visit visit museums and a sultan’s palace and enjoy views of the Bosphorus Strait.
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Grand Bazaar (KapalÄą Çarşı)

Visit one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, a real taste (and smell and sound!) of the diversity that Turkey has to offer.

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