The Blue Mosque

architecture · Ottoman Empire · Istanbul

Built for a Sultan. The Blue Mosque was constructed between 1609 and 1617 under the rule of Sultan Ahmed I, an Ottoman emperor who wanted to create one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.

Named for its tiles. The mosque earned the nickname 'Blue Mosque' because its interior walls are covered with thousands of hand-painted blue ceramic tiles that sparkle in the light.

A masterpiece of design. The Blue Mosque is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture ever built, featuring soaring domes, elegant arches, and intricate decorative patterns throughout.

Still a working mosque. Unlike many historical monuments, the Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship today, though visitors can tour it during non-prayer times.

Famous worldwide. The Blue Mosque attracts millions of tourists from around the globe each year, making it one of the most visited historical monuments in Turkey and a symbol of Istanbul.