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Inside the Blue Mosque | Iznik tilework, soaring domes, intricate calligraphy, & more
Blue Mosque TicketsInside
Your visual guide to the interiors of the Blue Mosque
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What’s inside the Blue Mosque?
Look out for soaring domes, intricate calligraphy, and exquisite details that showcase the pinnacle of Ottoman artistry inside the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. As you step inside the Sultanahmet Mosque, the vast prayer hall unfolds before you bathed in a soft, ethereal glow.
Iznik tiles
The Blue Mosque interiors are filled with İznik tiles. These tiles adorn all its walls, pillars, and domes. These hand-painted tiles feature intricate floral patterns, geometric designs, and calligraphy.
Grand Dome
The Blue Mosque interior features a central dome that rises high above the prayer hall. It is supported by four large columns and adorned with intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy.
Minbar
The minbar is a pulpit from which the imam delivers sermons. Look out for the detailed calligraphy on its surface and its exquisite craftsmanship. It is a significant symbol of the mosque’s religious purpose.
Mihrab
The mihrab is a beautifully decorated niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca, which is the focal point for Muslims during prayer. The mihrab inside the Blue Mosque features intricate tilework, calligraphy, and ornate details.
Royal kiosk
The Royal Kiosk inside the Blue Mosque consists of a platform, a loggia, and two retreat rooms. It also has its own mihrab, including a jade rose and gilt decorations. The Kiosk is situated at the southeast corner of the mosque.
Prayer hall
The spacious prayer hall inside the mosque has several large and semi-domes, creating a sense of depth and grandeur within the monument. Walk among the domes and appreciate the harmonious blend of light, space, and design among the domes.
Stained glass windows
The Blue Mosque's interior is adorned with stained glass windows that filter soft, colorful light into the space. It is a sight to behold during the early golden hours. These windows also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the mosque.
Calligraphy
Almost all the walls, arches, and domes inside the Blue Mosque are covered in intricate scripts, verses from the Quran, and other Islamic inscriptions. You will also find other examples of stunning Arabic calligraphy throughout its interiors.
Courtyard
Step outside and enjoy walking through the spacious courtyard surrounding the Blue Mosque. You can take a moment to appreciate the beautiful domes and minarets and soak in the overall grandeur of the monument from the outside.
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Frequently asked questions about what's inside the Blue Mosque
What’s inside Blue Mosque?
Inside the Blue Mosque, you will find a breathtaking display of İznik tiles, a grand prayer hall with a central dome, intricate calligraphy, stained glass windows, and a serene atmosphere.
Can you tour inside Blue Mosque?
Yes, you can book Blue Mosque guided tours to tour the interiors of the mosque. They include a 1-hour tour of the mosque along with a walk through the Old City. You can also get additional discounts if you purchase combo tickets that admit entry to both Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
How big is the Blue Mosque?
The Blue Mosque is an impressive architectural marvel that covers a significant area. The main building covers an area of around 47,164 sq. ft. It includes the prayer hall, domes, courtyards, and surrounding areas.
Can you take pictures inside Blue Mosque?
Yes, you can click pictures inside the Blue Mosque, but please refrain from using commercial equipment like tripods or flash photography as they may disturb other worshippers.
Is it free to view the Blue Mosque?
Yes, you can enter the Blue Mosque for free throughout the year. However, if you want to learn about its rich history and culture, it is best to book Blue Mosque tours, which also include a walk through the Old City surrounding the monument.
Who designed Blue Mosque?
The Blue Mosque had been commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, who sought to create an architectural marvel, that would rival the splendor of the nearby Hagia Sophia. The mosque was designed by the architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, who was a student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.
Where is Blue Mosque located?
The Blue Mosque is situated on Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 in Istanbul, Turkey.
When was Blue Mosque built?
The construction of the Blue Mosque began under the direction of Sedefkar Mehmed Agha around 1609 and was completed in 1617. The entire construction was completed within the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, which is also why the mosque is locally known as the Sultanahmet Mosque.
Is the Blue Mosque worth visiting?
Yes, if you are interested in Turkish history and Ottoman architecture, the Blue Mosque is a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. While the Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, it is open to visitors from all over the world. You can explore its fine architectural details and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
