The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an architectural marvel in Istanbul. This stunning landmark is renowned for its exquisite interior tiles, which are the reason behind its name. Consequently, when you step inside, you will understand why it has earned this title.
About the Blue Mosque
Built in 1609, the Blue Mosque is considered one of the last grand mosques from the Classic Period of the Ottoman Empire. Unique to its design are the six minarets, a departure from the typical four. This choice sparked some controversy at the time.
The Sultan had originally requested a single golden minaret. However, a misunderstanding led the architect to believe he meant six minarets instead. The Turkish word for gold is “altin,” while “alti” means six. Ultimately, this error resulted in the creation of one of the most magnificent mosques in the world, a feature that the Sultan came to cherish as it set his mosque apart from others.
The Blue Mosque: Dress Code and Visitor Guidelines
Today, the Blue Mosque stands as a significant tourist attraction in Istanbul, welcoming visitors even as it functions as an active place of worship. To maintain the sanctity of the mosque, visitors are required to adhere to the following dress code and guidelines:
- Wear long pants or skirts and ensure shoulders are covered.
- Women must cover their heads upon entering.
- Remove shoes; plastic bags are provided to carry them during your visit.
- Refrain from using flash photography, and maintain a respectful demeanor, particularly near those who are praying.
- The mosque is closed to non-worshippers during the Call to Prayer, which occurs five times a day.
- Pay attention to the call over loudspeakers; if there is singing through the city, it’s a sign to avoid visiting during those times.
The exterior of the Blue Mosque is a striking sight, prominently overlooking the old city of Istanbul. You can admire its grandeur from nearly every viewpoint, which offers fantastic opportunities for memorable photos.
A leisurely stroll along this avenue will connect you to numerous prominent attractions, including the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.
Where to Take a Good Photo of the Blue Mosque
During one of our visits, while on our way to a family dinner, we stumbled upon the ideal moment to photograph the Blue Mosque. The sun illuminated the dome and its six minarets perfectly, creating breathtaking light.
With excitement, Dave quickly adjusted his camera settings, knowing exactly what lenses and settings to choose without testing. This skill is crucial for capturing fleeting moments beautifully.
The result was a stunning photograph that beautifully encapsulated the majesty of the Blue Mosque, allowing us to continue to dinner without missing a beat.
