Golden Horn to Eyüp: History, Art and Views

Eyüp Sultan Mosque is a place of worship located in the Eyüpsultan district of Istanbul, at the northern tip of the Golden Horn, and holds great religious and historical significance. The mosque was built on the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, one of the standard bearers and companions of Prophet Muhammad. Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, known as Eyüp Sultan, was martyred during the siege of Istanbul and was buried in this area.

The construction of Eyüp Sultan Mosque took place shortly after the conquest of Istanbul, in 1458, during the reign of Ottoman Sultan II. Mehmed (Mehmed the Conqueror). However, over time, the structure suffered various earthquakes and damages, and it was largely rebuilt during the reign of III. Selim in the 18th century. Although the current mosque features baroque styles, it also bears traces of classical Ottoman architecture.

The main dome of the mosque rises on eight supporting pillars and is surrounded by semi-domes for support. The interior decorations are simple, yet particularly notable examples of calligraphy and tiled panels stand out. The minarets of the mosque reflect the characteristics of classical architecture with their slender and elegant structures. The fountain and portico structure located in the mosque courtyard is used as an area for ablution before worship.

The Eyüp Sultan Tomb is located right next to the mosque and is frequently visited by both local and foreign tourists throughout the year. Especially during the month of Ramadan, the area around the tomb and mosque experiences heavy visitor traffic. During the Ottoman period, the sword-girding ceremonies of sultans were also held here, making the mosque significant not only religiously but also symbolically.

Eyüp Sultan Mosque is one of the most visited centers in Istanbul in terms of religious tourism. The area also offers a spiritual atmosphere with its surrounding historical cemeteries, Pierre Loti Hill, and traditional bazaars.

For those who want to explore Turkey's historical and cultural heritage in one place, Miniatürk welcomes its visitors as a unique open-air museum. Spreading over a vast area of 60,000 square meters along the Golden Horn, this special venue offers a unique perspective on historical and architectural heritage with scale models of significant structures selected from all over Turkey.

At Miniatürk, detailed models of important works such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, as well as the ancient city of Ephesus, Mount Nemrut, and Selimiye Mosque in Anatolia are exhibited. Additionally, structures representing the Ottoman heritage abroad, such as the Mostar Bridge, can also be seen in this fascinating open-air museum.

The museum not only offers a visual experience but also provides an educational exploration opportunity with its interactive audio guide system that offers detailed information about the exhibits. With additional services such as children's play areas, souvenir shops, and a café, it provides a pleasant day for both families and history and architecture enthusiasts.

For those who want to see historical and cultural heritage in one place and embark on a symbolic journey across Turkey, Miniatürk continues to offer a unique experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.

Located in Istanbul’s most beautiful spots—where history and culture intersect—the branches of Istanbul Kitapçısı continue to operate under their new vision and the motto “the world is within.” With 14 branches featuring two distinct concepts where the scent of books blends with the aroma of the sea and coffee, the chain regularly brings together the city, literature, culture, and the individual; adding a new dimension to the Istanbul experience; both belonging to Istanbul and emerging from within it; an Istanbul brand that knows the city and its people—and can be both the city and its people!

Operating under the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Culture Inc., Istanbul Bookstore, guided by its mission to be “the bookstore for 16 million,” serves as a shared living space where Istanbulites can spend their time discovering books while waiting for a ferry; stop by on their way to work to grab their morning coffee; meet up with friends for pleasant conversations; and where families with children can comfortably spend time and participate in events featuring rich content—serving as a shared living space.

In addition to prestigious publications in the fields of history, culture, research and analysis, and literature published by İBB Publications, it also sells books from various publishers covering a wide range of topics such as history, literature, philosophy, politics, tourism, sports, and hobbies.

With the “Istanbul Bookstore” vision, it offers a third-generation approach that involves listening more closely to both consumer demands and realities as well as producers, and addressing deeper desires and needs.

Istanbul Bookstore offers not only cultural products but also a unique social environment and experience where you can rediscover and experience Istanbul. Serving as a bridge between the city’s thought leaders and its residents, it embraces Istanbullus as “stops for inspiration,” working to provide the most meaningful responses to the city’s sense of curiosity.

At the same time, it adds value to Istanbul as an active and vibrant public space through numerous free events—ranging from book signings and talks held at regular intervals to educational children’s workshops, concerts, and stand-up comedy shows.

istanbulkitapcisi.com, the online sales platform of Istanbul Kitapçısı, serves as a platform where 250,000 books and over 2,000 publishers in Turkey are registered.

The world is within it.