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Discover Süleymaniye Mosque: About & Key Facts

The Süleymaniye Mosque is located on the third hill of Istanbul, proudly standing and gazing out over the Bosphorus like a silent guardian. It stands out not only for its breathtaking scale, the graceful minarets and hilltop perch overlooking the city, but for how it perfectly embodies the harmony and elegance of classical Ottoman mosque architecture.

The mosque has four minarets and bears the name of the Sultan who ordered its construction (Sultan Sileman I). The complex of the mosque includes two mausoleums, a hospital, a hospice, a public kitchen and a bath. The property also includes a courtyard, and thanks to its location on the hill, it offers one of the best free views of Istanbul. If you don’t necessarily want to visit the mosque, you should still come for the view!

Impressions of Süleymaniye Mosque: Atmosphere & Setting

To visit the mosque I woke up early and walked through the quiet streets of Istanbul’s historic Fatih district just after dawn. The city was still stretching its limbs and on the way there I didn’t meet many oppose. Although the sun had already risen, it was still low. The sky wore a pale, almost shy blue. It was a beautiful time and atmosphere.

As I walked towards the mosque, the silhouette already promised something great and graceful; but nothing prepared me for the moment of awe that struck me as I stepped onto the premises. I was immediately taken! The huge round arches, the light-coloured stone and the wonderful details such as the decorations in the ceilings and the wooden doors immediately impressed me. The pale stone, almost glowing in the morning sun, carried an ancient calm, and above me, the blue domes felt like they were floating. It was a combination of the tranquillity, the fascinating size and the atmosphere that surprised and awed me that morning. For whatever reason, and although I knew the mosque from pictures, I didn’t expect it to be like this and that’s why it was even more beautiful to soak up this moment.

There are places that shout for your attention. And then there are those like Süleymaniye that speak in silence but nevertheless reverent.

Each detail, from the patterns in the ceilings, to the pattern in the doors, were subtle and yet beautifully present. The play of light and shadow through the large arches was simply fantastic. The omnipresent gentle and calming palette of brown, white and sand-tones as well as the blue domes accompanied the murmur of the requests which were spoken by the few people on the complex. From earth to heaven in every aspect.

Feelings at Süleymaniye Mosque: Notes & Reflection

The minarets piercing the sky like pens writing silent prayers into the heavens. While I was there, I had the feeling they are a kind of secret keepers, holders of whispered hopes, guardians of every bowed head. Anchored in the earth, and steady enough to endure every thought, no matter how heavy.

And of course the seagulls. They circle the domes and sail between the minarets, white scribbles against the blue, messengers perhaps, maybe carriers of prayers, or simply curious souls gliding between sea and stone. Their mewing and cries, and the quiet tripping of the feet of the faithful give Istanbul a heartbeat all its own.

Travel Thoughts, Mosques and Murmurs

Planning your Visit to Süleymaniye Mosque: Essentials & Tips

Various blogs have recommended being at the mosque early to enjoy the peace and quiet, and they were all right. Aside from a few locals in prayer or sitting in silence thoughts, there were no crowds, no chatter. So morning really is the best time. I arrived at around 8 o’clock and I was there in the beginning of March.

If the Mosque is calling you, here are a few notes for visiting:

You can get this view of the Asian side with the Galata Tower from the garden of the Süleymaniye Mosque. Even if you don’t visit the mosque, be sure to come for the view!

Süleymaniye Mosque: Key Takeaways & Value

Was a visit worth it? Yes, absolutely yes! A visit here isn’t just a checklist moment, it’s a conversation in a language of stone, light and peace. The Süleymaniye Mosque is wonderful building with impressive architecture. It is really absolutely beautiful (from the inside and outside), and in every aspect a very rewarding experience. The place has a rich cultural background and history that is worth learning about before, during or after the visit.

Furthermore, that the location offers an unobstructed and breathtaking view over the city is an additional highlight that should not be missed under any circumstances. It’s absolutely worthwhile at any time of the day. I was there in the morning and in the evening and can only highly recommend visiting at both times of the day if you have time. So, If you are in Istanbul, you should definitely visit!

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