Sultanahmet Camii

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, located in the Fatih district of Istanbul on the Historic Peninsula, is considered one of the most important examples of classical Ottoman architecture. The construction of the mosque began in 1609 upon the order of Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I and was completed in 1617. The architect of the mosque is Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, one of the famous architects of the period. The structure takes its name from the sultan who commissioned it and is also known in the Western world as the "Blue Mosque" due to the blue, green, and white tones of the İznik tiles used in its interior.

The mosque holds a unique position in Ottoman mosque architecture with its six minarets. Its large central dome has a diameter of 23.5 meters and reaches a height of 43 meters. This dome rests on four elephant feet and is supported by surrounding semi-domes. More than 20,000 handmade tiles have been used in its interior decorations. The mihrab is made of marble and features finely crafted calligraphic works around it. The pulpit is adorned with aesthetic examples of calligraphy art.

The mosque's courtyard features a portico structure commonly seen in Ottoman mosque architecture. There is an elegant archway at the transition between the courtyard and the interior. In the northwest corner of the mosque, there is the tomb of Sultan Ahmed I, who commissioned the mosque. Additionally, the complex includes a madrasa, a sultan's lodge, and a fountain.

Today, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque serves as both an active place of worship and an important tourist attraction. It is especially used intensively during the month of Ramadan and on Fridays for prayers. With its historical significance, architecture, and artistic value, the mosque is one of the iconic structures of Istanbul and is located in the "Historic Areas of Istanbul," which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.