Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

By Erotomania, edited by patrick

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The cascading domes and six slender minarets of the Sultanahmet Mosque (better known as the "Blue Mosque") dominate the skyline of Istanbul.

In the 17th century, Sultan Ahmet I wished to build an Islamic place of worship to rival the Hagia Sophia, and the mosque named for him is the impressive result. The two great architectural achievements stand next to each other in Istanbul's main square, and it is up to visitors to decide which is more impressive.

One of the most notable features of the Blue Mosque is visible from far away: its six minarets. This is very unique, as most mosques have four, two or just one minaret. According to one account, the Sultan directed his architect to make gold (altin) minarets, which was misunderstood as six (alti) minarets.

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/turkey/istanbul-blue-mosque.htm


The Mosque is in Sultan Ahmed area, Old City. Bus and tram are available to this area.

The way to properly appreciate the splendid architecture of the Blue Mosque is to enter it from the Hippodrome (that is, from the west) so you can appreciate the Magic of the Blue Mosque.

Enter on the south side of the mosque (to the right as you enter from the Hippodrome. If you're entering from the Ayasofya side, the tourist entrance is on the opposite side of the mosque.




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