BLUE MOSQUE

The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I when he was only 19 years old. It was built near the Hagia Sophia, over the site of the ancient hippodrome and Byzantine imperial palace. Construction work began in 1609 and finished in 1616. The original mosque complex included so many social facilities such as a hospital, a han, a primary school, a market, an imaret and the tomb of the founder which all together call as madrasa.

Blue Mosque is the only mosque in the city with six minarets. This feature makes Blue Mosque unique and famous. It is one of the most famous and important mark of Ottoman architectural style, this is the reason that it rePALACE in just center of the city next by Hagia Sophia.

The high ceiling is lined with the 20,000 blue tiles that give the mosque its popular name. Fine examples of 16th-century Iznik design, the oldest tiles feature flowers, trees and abstract patterns. The overall effect is one of the most beautiful sights in Istanbul.

Practical Information
*Just next to Sultan Ahmet tram stop.
*Since it is still active mosque it is open everyday of year from 08.00 am to 08.00 pm. But it is closing each praying time temporarily for visitors.
*Hovever ladies do not need to cover their heads it is better to carry a scarf with you and also both men and women need to have proper dress to cover shoulders and legs.
*No entrance fee