Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is the most important in Istanbul. Its name in turkish is Sultanahmed Camii, Mosque of Sultan Ahmed. It was built by said Sultan between 1609 and 1616, inaugurated in 1617 during the reign of Mustafa I.
Architecture
Although at first sight it seems to have similar dimensions to the Hagia Sophia, in reality, it measures about half its size. The central dome has dimensions of 23 metres diameter and is 43 metres high.
The Blue Mosque has six minarets which, when they were first built, caused uproar as the mosque in Mecca also had six. Later, and to placate devotees the Mecca mosque constructed a seventh to differentiate itself.
Interior
When entering the Blue Mosque you immediately understand its name: more than 20,000 blue tiles adorn the dome and the upper part of the mosque. All these tiles were shipped in from İznik a town famous for its tiles.
The illumination of the mosque comes from more than 200 stained glass windows, and the chandeliers that hang from the ceiling.
Advice
To enter the Blue Mosque, as well as the rest of the mosques in the city, you must wear the appropriate clothing and remove your shoes before entering. Women should cover their shoulders and hair. If you have nothing to cover yourself with, when entering you'll be given what you need to enter.
During the hours of prayer, the mosque is closed to tourists.
Guided tour
While entrance to the Blue Mosque is free, we recommend a guided tour if you want to uncover the secrets of this iconic Istanbul landmark.
Schedule
Daily from 9 am to 7 pm
Visits are not allowed during prayer times.
Price
Free entry
Transport
Tram: Sultanahmet, line T1.
Nearby places
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art (195 m) Basilica Cistern (352 m) Hagia Sophia (443 m) Cemberlitas Hammam (576 m) Archaeological Museum (800 m)
