Turkey's tourism industry boasts numerous prized mosques, some of which are architectural masterpieces and others are historical masterpieces. The Turkey masjid not only serve as prayer places but also serve as a stunning tribute to Islamic art, with their ornate interiors and grand exterior dimensions. Turkey's unique beauty, characterized by its pristine landscape, clear blue sky, magnificent domes, and minarets, sets it apart from other tourist destinations worldwide.
Turkey’s 10 Famous Mosques Not to Be Missed
Hagia Sophia Mosque-
a Greek patriarchal cathedral at Constantinople had been transformed to a mosque in 537 AD by the Moors. Today, it is one of the supreme houses of worship and pulls thousands of visitors yearly. The vast interior, illuminated by 40 arched windows, is the world's largest dome structure, a feat that was later taken by the Florence Cathedral. This Byzantine engineering feat cannot be missed.
Blue Mosque-
The Blue Mosque or the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a famed Ottoman-era imperial mosque at Turkey. Placed close to Hagia Sophia, it is a renowned tourist destination. The mosque features domes and a blue color scheme, with a unique floral detailing of tulips and roses. The mosque attracts a large number of tourists due to its beauty and richness. The mosque's unique decoration adds to its appeal to visitors, thus making it one amid the should-see mosque in Turkey.
New Mosque-
The New Mosque, made by the Ottoman dynasty, is one amid Turkey's biggest mosques. Originally called Valide Sultan Mosque, it was named after the mother of Suntan Mehme III to honor her son's ascension. Construction began in 1597 and continued until 1665. The mosque has Iznik tiles, gorgeous blue tiles with their developed town's name, and serves both religious & cultural purposes alike.
Suleymaniye Mosque-
Istanbul's second-largest mosque is a momentous landmark in Turkey. It houses tombs of Sultan Suleyman, his wife Hurrem, & Mimar Sinan, made between 1550 & 1558 under Suleyman's rule. The mosque, a representation of Ottoman golden era, is a testimony to Suleyman's reign. Süleymaniye, the largest mosque in Istanbul, is located in the Third Hill, offering an impressive city view and the best sunset spot after the Galata Bridge. Despite its size, it is not crowded, as most people visit famous spots like Galata Tower or Hagia Sophia, making it a must-visit for those in Istanbul. This is amid the greatest things to do in Bosphorus Istanbul.
Grand Mosque of Bursa-
built between 1396 & 1399 in former Ottoman capital, is one amid Turkey's most beautiful & oldest mosques. Recognized for its unique Seljuk style, it has UNESCO status. Built by Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I to commemorate his victory over Nicopolis, the mosque aims to be as grand as the victory. This is a famous mosque in Turkey for reasons good.
Rustem Pasa Mosque-
Placed on Istanbul's European side, it is a veiled gem with Iznik tiles. Planned by Sinan, it was specially made by Rüstem Paşa, Sultan Suleyman I’s grand vizier. Often unseen, visitors must climb a staircase to observe the mosque's eye-catching architecture and elaborate tile work.
Ortakoy Mosque-
Placed in Istanbul's Ortaköy District, it is called the jewel of Bosphorus for its stunning setting on the water. Built between 1854 & 1856 in Neo-Baroque style, it had been commissioned via Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid. The mosque is also known for its special street food, including kumpir and sweet waffles. For reaching the district, take T1 tram to Kabataş, then the 25E, 22RE, or 22 bus to Ortaköy/Kabataş erkek lisesi stop.
Mihrimah Sulatan Mosque-
One amid Istanbul's two 16th-century religious structures is believed to have been made by architect Sinan for conveying his admiration for Mihrimah Sultan, Sultan Süleyman I's daughter, who married Rüştem Paşa. The mosque features two minarets with encoded messages, with the sun falling between them and the moon rising from the single one on the Asian side, celebrating Mihrimah's name, which translates to "sun and moon." Access is via T1 tram line to the Topkapı station & T4 tram line to the Edirnekapı station.
Fatih Mosque-
the initial monumental building in the Ottoman history, it was ordered via Fatih Sultan Mehmet that conquered Constantinople. The mosque has been designed via Greek architect Atik Sinan & built on Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, which was believed in being a burial rest for Byzantium emperors. Some believe Mehmet destroyed the church to build his mosque for power or respect, but the mosque remains open for visitors today. The mosque hosted important scientists and provided education in various branches. As the oldest monumental building in Ottoman history, the mosque has suffered numerous damages from nature, leaving only eight madrasahs and libraries. The complex has many sections that have been destroyed in the past.
Camlica Mosque-
Çamlıca, Turkey's largest mosque is renowned for its unique and modern style. Made in 2013, it can house up to 63,000 tourists or worshippers. As opposed to older mosques, it is not merely for prayer but for tourism as well, featuring a library, an art gallery, and conference hall. Çamlıca's popularity stems from its ability to host up to 63,000 worshippers or tourists.
Familiarizing Mosque Etiquettes
When the mosque is open for prayer, do not enter
To enter the mosque, one must take off their shoes. There is a space set aside for this.
It is not appropriate to eat or drink within a mosque.
Women should cover their shoulders and knees when dressing modestly, and they should always carry a scarf, especially when visiting less visited areas.
Men should cover their knees and shoulders as well.
Inside the mosque, keep your voice down.
Although admission is typically free, leaving a donation is courteous.
It is okay to take pictures, but try not to capture individuals who might be attempting to pray.
Keep children in check
Switch off your smartphone.
Refrain from leaving any trash behind; this goes beyond mosques.
Understand the background and customs of Islam
Wrapping Up
In Turkey every famous mosque add to the country's uniqueness by showcasing the rich heritage of Islamic art and their historical, awe-inspiring architecture, each with its own story and unique past, making them a must-see for visitors.
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