Süleymaniye Mosque
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Süleymaniye Mosque - by İhsan Deniz Kılıçoğlu (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Description
The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of Istanbul's skyline defining features. Commissioned in the mid-16th century by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan, it sits on the Third Hill of the city, commanding extensive views of the Golden Horn and Galata / Beyoğlu side. It is notable by its exceptional size, and it was until 2019 the largest mosque in Istanbul. The exterior was inspired the Hagia Sophia and the Bayezid II Mosque and thus combines Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles. The complex features 4 tall minarets (76m), a large forecourt with a central fountain, a main dome 56m high and 26m in diameter, and the mausoleums of Sultan Suleiman I and his wife Hurrem Sultan.
Access & Transport
The mosque is located in Eminönü, 600m away from both the Galata and Ataturk bridges. There are several bus stops along Ragıp Gümüşpala Cd and Ataturk Bld as well as ferry services near the Galata Bridge. The Vezneciler metro station (M2) is 700m southwest of the mosque and the Eminönü tram station (T1), 1km to the northeast.
Instructions & Recommendations
Note that some of the best views of the mosque are from Galata bridge, in the evenings. Please check prayer times in advance (closed to tourists during that time) and make sure you are appropriately dressed. Link to Istanbul prayer times: https://namazvakitleri.diyanet.gov.tr/en-US/9541/prayer-time-for-istanbul
Environmental & Social
No environmental impact and helps preserve the city's architectural and historical heritage
Conclusion
Travellers should not think of Süleymaniye Mosque as an optional monument to visit after Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque because each of those bring something unique to the table. In the case of Süleymaniye, it is the sheer size of the complex and its grand forecourt.
Key positive
Stunning size and beautifully balanced architectural elements
Centrally located and free entrance
Good views over the city from the garden next to the mosque
Key negative
-
Suitability
No religious denomination restriction but it is important to dress properly and avoid prayer times. Wheelchair users will need to transfer to the mosque's own equipment before accessing the carpeted areas
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h
Monday09:00 - 18:00
Tuesday09:00 - 18:00
Wednesday09:00 - 18:00
Thursday09:00 - 18:00
Friday09:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 18:00
Sunday09:00 - 18:00