Blue Mosque
Historic mosque with six minarets and blue-tiled interior, located in Istanbul, Turkey.
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Blue Mosque
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Landmark
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, widely known as the Blue Mosque, was constructed in Istanbul between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. Located opposite the Hagia Sophia, the structure is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, designed by the architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha. The mosque earned its nickname from the more than 20,000 handmade blue Iznik ceramic tiles that adorn its interior with various floral patterns like tulips and carnations. A defining feature is its six minarets, which caused significant controversy at the time of construction as only the Kaaba in Mecca possessed as many. The building integrates Byzantine elements from the Hagia Sophia with traditional Islamic architecture, featuring a central dome that is 23.5 meters in diameter. Today, it remains an active place of worship and one of the most significant cultural landmarks in Turkey.
- Location: Turkey
- Top sights: Blue Mosque · Güngörmez Mescidi · Arasta Bazaar
- Nearby: Caddebostan (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 79 | 68 | 53 | 42 | 35 | 36 | 20 | 22 | 54 | 70 | 63 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Blue Mosque is an active mosque open to visitors outside prayer times. Non-Muslims can enter the courtyard and prayer hall, but must adhere to the dress code.
Typical hours
Visiting hours are typically daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with breaks during the five daily prayers. On Fridays, the mosque may be closed to tourists until afternoon due to the longer Friday prayer.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard and prayer hall, but without flash to avoid disturbing worshippers. Tripods and professional equipment are generally not permitted.
Time needed
Most visitors spend about 30-45 minutes in the mosque admiring the blue tile decorations. Guided tours, when available, often last up to an hour.
Combine with
The Blue Mosque is directly opposite Hagia Sophia and near Sultanahmet Square. Combine your visit with Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern for a full historical day.
Getting there
The mosque is in the Sultanahmet district and easily reached by tram line T1 to Sultanahmet stop. On foot, it is a short walk from other central attractions.
Insider tip
Visit the mosque early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds. Remember a head covering for women and covered shoulders and knees - scarves are often loaned for free at the entrance.
Geography
Facts
- Built between 1609 and 1616 under Sultan Ahmed I.
- Contains over 20,000 handmade Iznik ceramic tiles.
- Features six minarets instead of the typical four.
- The central dome stands at a height of 43 meters.
- Over 200 stained glass windows illuminate the interior.
- Designed by Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, a student of Mimar Sinan.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Blue Mosque (10)
Great Palace Mosaic Museum🏛 museum
Museum displaying Byzantine mosaics from the Great Palace of Constantinople.
Sultan Ahmed Square
Historic square between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, former Hippodrome.
Serpent Column
Ancient victory column from Delphi, now located in Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul.
Carpet Museum🏛 museum
Museum displaying a collection of historic carpets and kilims from Turkey.
The Walled Obelisk
Roman monument from the 4th century, originally in the Hippodrome of Constantinople.
Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum🏛 museum
Museum about the history of Hagia Sophia with interactive exhibits in Istanbul.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay to enter the Blue Mosque?
No, visiting the Blue Mosque is free as it is an active house of worship.
Can I visit the mosque during prayer times?
No, tourists are not allowed inside during prayer times.
Is there a dress code for visitors?
Yes, shoulders and knees must be covered; women need a headscarf at the entrance.
How long does a visit take?
Usually 30 to 45 minutes is enough to marvel at the magnificent Iznik tiles.
Do I need to take off my shoes?
Yes, shoes must be removed before stepping onto the carpeted floor.
Blue Mosque: where is it located?
Blue Mosque is located in Turkey.
Blue Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Blue Mosque, Güngörmez Mescidi, Arasta Bazaar.
Blue Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Blue Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, widely known as the Blue Mosque, was constructed in Istanbul between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I.
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