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Explore the Majesty of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul

By Meeta Shah on Mar 13, 2023
Themes:  Interesting Facts  | Category: Places To Visit | Country:  All Over the World Turkey

The iconic and famous mosque in Istanbul, the Turks call – the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is known globally as the Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque in Istanbul received this unofficial name based on the blue tiles that adorn this structure. The blue mosque was built to honor the ottoman dynasty’s glory while reflecting its majesty around the world.

What better way to demonstrate an empire’s power than to create a huge Islamic monument in a prominent place, don’t you think? At the start of the 17th century, the Ottoman Sultan held the same viewpoint.

Turkey Tourism prides Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, placed across each other. Like the city itself, these two monuments unite and divide the history and citizens of the country. Seek one of our Turkey tour packages to explore the marvel of Turkey.

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History of the Blue Mosque

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Let us delve further into the historical background of the Blue Mosque – one of the most popular places to visit in Turkey. Sultan Ahmed I – wanted to motivate people following the Treaty of Zsitvatorok and the empire’s defeat in the war with Persia from 1603 to 1618. The Sultan Ahmet Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 to reaffirm Ottoman power, even though Ahmed I had to borrow money from the treasury due to a lack of spoils of war. The location of the Blue Mosque is significant because it is the site of a Byzantine palace and faces the famed Hagia Sophia and Hippodrome.

How to Reach the Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet is where the blue mosque is in Istanbul, Turkey. The distance from Sultan Ahmet Square is two minutes walk. The drive from the Istanbul Airport to the Blue Mosque is around seventeen kilometers. The Blue Mosque can be reached from Istanbul’s airport with ease using transportation. One can use a train, tram, bus, taxi, or car to visit the mosque.

You can board the train from the airport to Zeytinburnu. From here, take a tram to Sultanahmet. It will take around an hour to reach. You can also opt for a bus from the airport to Yenikapi Istasyonu. From here, walk for two kilometers to reach the mosque. Alternatively, you can hire a cab and reach the mosque in around 15 to 20 minutes.

Best Time to Visit the Blue Mosque

This famous mosque in Istanbul is open every day for tourists except on Fridays during prayer times. The best time to visit the Blue Mosque is during the off-season when there are fewer crowds and mild weather.

If you are visiting this mosque during the peak season of summer months – visit early morning or late evening to avoid midday heat and crowds. The mosque may be closed during some events or holidays.

The architecture of the Blue Mosque

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The Blue Mosque is an iconic example of Turkish design and architecture. The mosque was built during Sultan Ahmed’s era in the sixteenth century. The design is a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles featuring intricate tile work, minarets, and domes. The name of the mosque is due to its bright blue tiles on the interior walls that offer the structure an ethereal and serene quality.

A student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan – Sedefkar Mehmed Aga, is the architect of the Blue Mosque. This mosque in Istanbul is one of the best works of Aga and is evidence of his skill in designing complex structures. Check out the architecture of the Blue Mosque, its unique features, beautiful courtyard, its six minarets, and intricate calligraphy on the walls.

Minarets of the Blue Mosque

Minarets of the Blue Mosque are one of the most talked about features. These tapering lean structures are the key elements of the architecture and are easily visible from anywhere in the city. These minarets were built to serve as prayer towers. It allowed the call to prayer to be heard across the area. One of the interesting aspects of this tourist attraction in Turkey is that it has six minarets compared to the regular number of minarets of the mosque. Despite this, the minarets of the Blue Mosque remain a striking and memorable aspect of its design.

Tips on visiting the Blue Mosque

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  • The Blue Mosque is a religious place, thus tourists are expected to dress appropriately. Visitors should cover their shoulders and legs and wear a headscarf.
  • Throughout the five daily prayer sessions, the mosque is shut to visitors. It’s crucial to check the prayer schedule in advance and make travel arrangements in line with it.
  • Enter through the right gate, as worshippers and tourists have different entrances. You need to go for the western side gate to enter the mosque.
  • Visitors must take off their footwear before entering the mosque. Store them in free plastic bags given at the entrance.
  • Once you are inside the mosque, visitors should be quiet and respectful. Do not click pictures inside, especially during prayer times.
  • During the peak tourist season, the mosque can get crowded. To avoid it, visit during the late afternoon or early morning.

Conclusion:

The Blue Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. It is renowned as an important landmark and a must-see site in Istanbul. Contact the destination specialists at Flamingo Transworld to create an exciting package that includes The Blue Mosque.

FAQs Regarding the Blue Mosque

Why is the Blue Mosque so famous?

The Blue Mosque is famous for its magnificent structure, minarets, a huge dome, and beautiful tile work. The mosque built under the Ottoman Empire in the early 17th century is famous for its historical and religious significance.

What is the dress code for the Blue Mosque Istanbul?

Tourists visiting Istanbul’s Blue Mosque are expected to dress modestly and adhere to a strict dress code. Both males and females should cover their shoulders and legs, and women should use a scarf to conceal their heads. Before entering the mosque, remove your footwear and keep them in the plastic bags, given at the entrance. Visitors can get a free wrap or scarf from the mosque’s entry if they don’t have the proper apparel.

How much is the entrance fee for the Blue Mosque?

There is no entrance fee at the Blue Mosque. Visitors are welcome every day except for the five hours of daily prayer. Yet, donations are always welcome to help maintain and protect the mosque’s distinctive artwork and architecture.

What is the best time to visit the Blue Mosque?

To avoid crowds – it is advisable to visit Istanbul’s Blue Mosque during the week rather than on the weekends, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Checking the prayer timings is also advised because this is when guests are not allowed inside the mosque.

How long is the Blue Mosque tour?

Depending on your schedule and tastes, a tour of the Blue Mosque might last anywhere from an hour to several hours. The mosque may be explored on your own for 30 to 60 minutes, during which you can take in the magnificent architecture and fine details, explore the courtyards and gardens, and take photos. Guided tours typically last around one to two hours.

About Author

Meeta Shah
Meeta Shah

I graduated in commerce from Bombay University and run a family-owned business where we believe in transparency, trust, knowledge distribution and provide quality tours to our customers. According to me “Customers are our brand ambassadors and employees are our biggest Strength”. I also believe that “Travel brings knowledge, Knowledge brings opportunity and Opportunity brings prosperity”. With God’s grace was awarded the “Best Female Entrepreneur of India” by Tourism awards Gujarat. And currently, I am actively involved in key decisions and itinerary staff management in the travel industry. 

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