Overview

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famously known as the Blue Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most stunning architectural wonders. Built between 1609 and 1616 under Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque is adorned with over 20,000 handcrafted Iznik tiles, featuring intricate floral patterns in shades of blue—hence its popular name.

The mosque has six minarets, a grand central dome, and breathtaking interior calligraphy of Quranic verses. It is a working mosque but also one of Turkey’s most visited landmarks, attracting millions of tourists and worshippers each year. Facing the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque plays a key role in Istanbul’s historic skyline.

During prayer times, the mosque fills with the serene sound of the Adhan (call to prayer), creating an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion. The mosque is particularly mesmerizing at night when it is illuminated against the city’s skyline, making it an unforgettable sight.

Curated by the World Travel Awards