Blue Mosque

Page Down Page Up  Back to Thumbnails Turkey Map List Turkey Photos Page 3 of 21
Sultan Ahmet Camii   -   The Blue Mosque

Sultan Ahmet commissioned the then Imperial Architect Mehmet Aga to build him a magnificent Mosque.  When building began in 1609, the inclusion of 6 minarets was thought to be sacrilegious in it's attempt to rival Mecca.  It took seven years to complete.

At that time the Mosque supported a hospital, a primary school, college, public kitchen, market, mausoleum, and caravansary.

 
Approach the Mosque from the Hippodrome, follow the steps through the main portal and into the courtyard.  In the center is the  now strictly ornamental ablutions fountain, the dome of which is in the bottom of the picture.  
Cascade of  leaded domes

The Mosques facade is a picture of symmetry  unfortunately the area to the left was covered with scaffolding and swarming with workmen.  
The courtyard covers the same area as the prayer hall and is surrounded on three sides by a covered portico supported on columns.  It can be used for prayer meditation or study during the summer months.
Page Down Page Up  Back to Thumbnails Turkey Map List Turkey Photos Page 3 of 21