Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
A peaceful place of prayer and beauty in the heart of old Istanbul.
Your First Steps Toward the Blue Mosque
As you walk through Sultanahmet Square, the Blue Mosque suddenly appears before you—its six tall minarets rising into the sky, its large domes stacked like steps toward heaven. It feels both grand and calm, like it’s always been there.
Built by Sultan Ahmed I and finished in 1616, this mosque is one of the most famous buildings in Istanbul. People call it the Blue Mosque because of the thousands of blue and turquoise tiles inside.
What You’ll Notice Inside
Blue İznik Tiles: These handmade tiles cover the walls with beautiful flower and geometric designs. Look for tulips, roses, and vines—all in calming shades of blue.
Domes and Minarets: Inside, the large central dome feels light and open. Outside, the six minarets make the mosque look truly royal.
Sultan Ahmed’s Tomb: The sultan who built the mosque is buried just outside. His tomb is quiet and decorated with respect.
Courtyard and Ablution Fountains: The open-air courtyard is a peaceful place to sit or take photos. Near the fountain, Muslims wash before prayer—it’s part of the ritual of being clean before speaking to God.
How to Visit the Blue Mosque
Best Entrance: Come in from the Hippodrome side for the most impressive first view.
What You Can See: Visitors can go into the prayer hall, walk around the courtyard, and visit the tomb of the sultan.
Important Tip: The mosque is closed to tourists during prayer times, so plan your visit between them. (There are five prayers a day.)
Visitor Information
🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily, except during prayer times (usually 30–90 minutes five times a day)
🎟️ Tickets: Free entry for everyone
📍 Nearby Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, the Hippodrome, and the Basilica Cistern are all close by.
A Quiet, Spiritual Moment
The Blue Mosque isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a working mosque where people still come to pray every day. When you visit, take a moment to pause. Look up at the ceiling, listen to the silence, and feel the peace this place has offered for more than 400 years.
