descriptionDescription

Considered the masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, the Süleymaniye Mosque is a unique structure reflecting the splendor of the Ottoman Empire.

auto_storiesStory

The Süleymaniye Mosque was built by Mimar Sinan between 1550 and 1557 in the name of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Located on one of Istanbul's seven hills, overlooking the Golden Horn, the mosque is considered one of the pinnacles of Ottoman architecture. Designed as a complex (külliye), Süleymaniye houses many structures in addition to the mosque, such as madrasahs, a darüşşifa (hospital), an imaret (soup kitchen), a hammam, a library, and shops. The main dome of the mosque is 27.5 meters in diameter and 53 meters high from the ground. The dome, supported by four elephant feet, is buttressed by semi-domes on the sides. The İznik tiles, stained glass windows, and wood carvings used in the interior showcase the artistic richness of the period. The acoustic system is an important feature demonstrating Mimar Sinan's genius; the imam's voice can be heard clearly from every point of the mosque. The tombs of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and Hürrem Sultan are also located in the mosque's courtyard. The Süleymaniye Mosque is not only a monumental work reflecting the power, art, and engineering knowledge of the Ottoman Empire, but also an important center for worship and visitation today. The structure was built to be resistant to earthquakes, and for centuries...

tips_and_updatesVisit Tips

• Take off your shoes and wear appropriate clothing when entering the mosque.
• Try to visit outside of prayer times.
• Carefully examine the tile and calligraphy art inside the mosque.
• Visit the tombs of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and Hürrem Sultan in the courtyard.
• Explore the Süleymaniye Complex and historical structures around the mosque.