Suleymaniye Mosque: The Greatest Ottoman Legacy

The greatest Ottoman sultan and the greatest Ottoman architect coming together, what could possibly go wrong? Built by Sinan the architect with the order of Suleiman the Magnificent, Suleymaniye Mosque displays the magnificence of the most glorious period of the Ottoman Empire.

As the sacred book of the Muslims Koran says that “God is the light of the heavens and earth,” Sinan the architect wanted to create the divine light inside the mosque. So he used many tiny windows to bring light to the heavenly paintings and ornations inside the mosque. Judging from the paradise-like atmosphere of the interiors, we can say that he achieved his goal.

If you would like to check yourself, come visit the Suleymaniye Mosque yourself and be amazed by its atmosphere and beauty.

Suleymaniye Mosque is located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, Turkey, and is easily accessible by various forms of public transportation. Here are some options:

By Tram: The easiest way is to take the T1 tram line and get off at Beyazit-Kapalicarsi (Grand Bazaar) stop. From there, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk up the hill to the mosque.

By Bus: Numerous bus lines pass through the area, especially along Ataturk Boulevard, and there are several bus stops near the mosque.

By Taxi: Istanbul taxis are abundant and relatively cheap by Western standards. Just tell the driver you want to go to “Suleymaniye Camii.”

By Ferry: If you’re coming from the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take a ferry to Eminonu and then take the T1 tram or walk.

When packing for a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, you should consider that it is an active place of worship, and as such, appropriate attire is required:

Modest Clothing: As with any mosque, modest clothing is a must for both men and women. This means clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and legs. Women are also required to cover their hair with a headscarf when inside the mosque.

Headscarves for Women: Even though some mosques provide headscarves at the entrance, it is a good idea for women to bring their own to ensure they have one.

Socks: You will be required to remove your shoes before entering the mosque, so wearing socks can be a good idea for personal comfort.

Camera: The mosque is known for its beautiful architecture, so you may want to bring a camera. However, remember to be respectful and avoid photographing people without their consent, especially while they are praying.

Small Backpack or Bag: A small backpack or bag can be handy to carry your shoes while you are inside the mosque.

Water and Snacks: Depending on the time of year and how long you plan to explore the area, it may be useful to have water and small snacks.

Guidebook or Information on the Mosque: If you want to understand more about the history and significance of the architecture, a guidebook or app with information could be very useful.

The Suleymaniye Mosque is located in Istanbul, Turkey, so you won’t be staying at the mosque itself. However, there are numerous accommodations available nearby in the city catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

The Beverley Hills Istanbul: A modern and luxurious hotel offering stunning views of the city. It’s just a short walk from the Suleymaniye Mosque.

Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus: An international chain, Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus offers comfortable and spacious rooms. It’s well-located, being a short car ride from the Suleymaniye Mosque.

Cheers Hostel: If you’re on a budget, Cheers Hostel is a great option. It’s situated in the heart of Istanbul and provides a welcoming and comfortable stay.

Ten Karakoy Istanbul: This hotel is located in one of Istanbul’s most vibrant districts and offers luxury rooms and suites.

Romantic Hotel Istanbul: This hotel offers affordable luxury and comfort, with easy access to major Istanbul attractions, including the Suleymaniye Mosque.

Sirkeci Mansion: Located near Istanbul’s most important landmarks, including the Suleymaniye Mosque, Sirkeci Mansion offers comfortable rooms, a Turkish bath, and a swimming pool.

The Suleymaniye Mosque is open to visitors every day except during prayer times. Prayer times vary throughout the year, but generally, the mosque is closed to non-worshippers for about half an hour during each of the five daily prayers in Islam.

As for the best time of year to visit, Istanbul experiences relatively mild weather, but the most popular times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is most pleasant.

However, summer (July and August) can be quite hot and crowded, while winter (December to February) can be cold and rainy, although there will be fewer tourists.

The mosque itself may be less crowded during the early morning hours. It’s a good idea to check the prayer times for the day of your visit, so you can plan accordingly.

As with any religious site, please remember to dress modestly out of respect for local customs. This usually involves covering your knees and shoulders, and women may need to cover their hair with a scarf.

The Suleymaniye Mosque is an Ottoman imperial mosque located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, Turkey. It is the largest mosque in the city and one of the best-known sights of Istanbul.

The mosque was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan. Construction work began in 1550 and the mosque was finished in 1557. The mosque was part of a larger complex, or külliye, that included a hospital, a library, a school, and a bathhouse, among other buildings.

The Suleymaniye Mosque combines the best of two architectural styles: Byzantine architecture, as seen in the Hagia Sophia, and traditional Islamic architecture. This combination resulted in a large and visually stunning structure that is considered one of Sinan’s masterpieces. The mosque’s dome is 53 meters high and has a diameter of 27.5 meters.

Suleymaniye Mosque was damaged by a fire in 1660 and was restored by Sultan Mehmed IV. Part of the dome collapsed again during the earthquake of 1766. Subsequent repairs damaged what was left of the original decoration of Sinan. During World War I, the courtyard was used as a weapons depot, and when some of the ammunition ignited, the mosque suffered another fire. Not until 1956 was it fully restored again.

Today, the Suleymaniye Mosque is a significant symbol of Istanbul, known for its architectural beauty and historic significance. It’s visited by locals for worship and by tourists from all over the world.

The Suleymaniye Mosque, being one of the most important landmarks in Istanbul and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, has several notable features and historical significances:

Architectural Achievement: The mosque is considered the greatest masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, the most famous architect of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque combines the best of two architectural styles: Byzantine architecture, as seen in the Hagia Sophia, and traditional Islamic architecture.

Complex Design: The Suleymaniye Mosque is not just a mosque, but a complex (Kulliye) including a hospital, a library, a school, a bathhouse, a caravanserai, four Qur’an schools (medrese), a specialized school for the learning of hadith, a medical college, and a public kitchen (which served food to the poor) are among the many buildings included in the complex. This was the first of its kind and later became a model for other mosque complexes.

Unique Acoustics: It’s said that the mosque was designed with unique acoustics – even whispers from the opposite corner can be heard clearly. This acoustic feature has added to the intrigue and fascination with the mosque’s architecture.

Largest Mosque: The Suleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul, and at the time of its construction, it represented the pinnacle of Ottoman architecture.

Conservation Efforts: The mosque underwent significant conservation and restoration efforts in the 20th century. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Ottoman architecture.

Historic Events: Throughout its history, the mosque has witnessed numerous historical events. It suffered damage and underwent subsequent repairs during several fires and an earthquake.

Incredible View: The mosque is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, making it a popular tourist attraction.

The Suleymaniye Mosque itself is a historical place, and it is part of a larger complex that includes several other significant buildings and sites. Here are a few of them:

Suleymaniye Mosque: As mentioned, the mosque is an architectural masterpiece, designed by the Ottoman Empire’s most renowned architect, Mimar Sinan. Its large dome and four minarets are iconic features of Istanbul’s skyline.

Suleymaniye Kulliye (Complex): The mosque is part of a larger complex that includes a number of other buildings that were integral to the religious, educational, and social services provided during the Ottoman era. This includes schools, a library, a hospital, and a public kitchen.

Suleymaniye Hamam (Turkish Bath): Not far from the mosque, this historic Turkish bath was also designed by Mimar Sinan.

Suleymaniye Library: This is part of the original complex and holds thousands of precious manuscripts.

Tomb of Suleyman the Magnificent and Hurrem Sultan: Located on the mosque’s grounds are the tombs of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent, one of the most powerful sultans of the Ottoman Empire, and his wife Hurrem Sultan, who was an influential figure in her own right.

Cemetery: There’s a historic cemetery near the mosque complex where several Ottoman sultans, as well as other historical figures, are buried.

Suleymaniye’s Courtyard: The mosque’s courtyard is a historic site in itself, offering stunning views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.

The most famous people in the history of the Suleymaniye Mosque would be the following:

Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent: Known as Suleyman the Lawgiver in Turkey and Suleyman the Magnificent in the West, he commissioned the construction of the mosque. Sultan Suleyman is considered one of the most influential sultans of the Ottoman Empire, overseeing a significant expansion of the empire and a period of cultural prosperity.

Mimar Sinan: This renowned architect is famous not just in Turkey but throughout the world for his contributions to Ottoman architecture. Sinan designed and oversaw the construction of the Suleymaniye Mosque, which is often considered his masterpiece. His work is noted for its innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs, many of which are still studied by architects today.

Hurrem Sultan (Roxelana): Wife of Sultan Suleyman, she was an influential figure during her husband’s reign. She is also buried in a tomb on the grounds of the Suleymaniye Mosque complex. Hurrem Sultan is historically significant as she broke several Ottoman court traditions and held a considerable amount of political power for a woman of her time.

Here are 15 things you can do when you visit:

1. 1. Visit the Mosque: Explore the majestic main prayer hall of the mosque, which is known for its impressive dome, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate tilework.
   2. Marvel at the Dome: The main dome of the mosque is one of the most iconic elements of its architecture. It’s also an engineering marvel that is more than 150 feet high and over 90 feet in diameter.
   3. Explore the Courtyard: The mosque’s courtyard is serene and inviting. You’ll find an ablution fountain in the center and an impressive colonnade surrounding it.
   4. Visit the Tombs: The mosque complex includes the tombs of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent, his wife Hurrem Sultan (Roxelana), and several other members of the Ottoman royal family.
   5. Study the Mihrab and Minbar: The Mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca) and the Minbar (pulpit) are intricately designed and worth a closer look.
   6. Visit the Madrasas: The mosque complex includes four madrasas that once served as religious schools. Their design provides an interesting insight into the educational practices of the time.
   7. Walk in the Garden: There are beautiful landscaped gardens within the mosque complex where you can enjoy a peaceful walk.
   8. Visit the Public Bath: Explore the historic public bath, also known as a hammam.
   9. Visit the Mosque Library: Once one of the largest libraries in Istanbul, it contains many historical manuscripts.
   10. Enjoy the Views: The mosque is situated on one of Istanbul’s seven hills, providing excellent views over the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the city.
   11. Look at the Beautiful Tiles: The mosque is known for its beautiful Iznik tiles. Take the time to appreciate their intricate designs.
   12. Explore the Nearby Bazaars: The area around the mosque is filled with bustling bazaars. Explore these markets for a taste of local culture.
   13. Try Local Cuisine: There are several restaurants and cafes around the mosque where you can try local Turkish cuisine.
   14. Take a Guided Tour: Consider taking a guided tour of the mosque to learn more about its history, architecture, and cultural significance.
   15. Attend a Prayer Service: If you’re interested in experiencing Islamic culture firsthand, consider attending one of the daily prayer services. However, remember to be respectful and follow any guidelines for visitors.

Here are some of the best places to visit within the mosque complex:

The Mosque Itself: The main prayer hall is renowned for its grandeur and beauty, featuring an awe-inspiring dome, intricate mosaics, and beautiful stained glass windows.

The Courtyard: The spacious courtyard offers a serene atmosphere, with its colonnade and central ablution fountain. It’s a great place to appreciate the architecture and tranquility of the mosque.

Sultan Suleyman and Hurrem Sultan Mausoleums: Located in the garden behind the mosque, these are the final resting places of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife, Hurrem Sultan. They are beautiful examples of Ottoman funerary architecture.

The Madrasas: The Suleymaniye Mosque complex includes four madrasas or religious schools. They provide an insight into the educational practices of the Ottoman era.

The Library: The library, once among the most prominent in Istanbul, houses a significant collection of books and manuscripts in Arabic, Persian, and Turkish.

The Hospital (Darussifa): Historically, the complex included a hospital that served the public. It’s a testament to the social services provided by the mosque complex.

Terrace with Views: The mosque is located on one of Istanbul’s highest hills and offers magnificent views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus Strait.

The Kitchen (Imaret): It used to serve food to the poor and students. While it doesn’t operate now, you can still see the historical structure.

Public Baths (Hamam): The complex also includes a historic public bath. While it’s not operational today, it’s an interesting part of the history of the mosque.

There are many tours available that include a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of the most beautiful and prominent landmarks in Istanbul. Here are a few examples, but please note that the availability and exact itinerary of these tours can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance.

Suleymaniye Mosque and Istanbul Ottoman History Tour: This tour provides you with a deep insight into the Ottoman history of Istanbul, and includes a visit to the Suleymaniye Mosque as well as other important historical sites.

Istanbul Full-Day Walking Tour: These comprehensive tours often include the Suleymaniye Mosque along with many other key sites in Istanbul, such as the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

Suleymaniye Mosque and Spice Bazaar Tour: This tour combines the cultural experience of visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque with the vibrant, aromatic atmosphere of Istanbul’s famous Spice Bazaar.

Guided Tour of Suleymaniye Mosque: Some companies offer dedicated tours of the mosque itself. These tours focus solely on the mosque, providing you with detailed information about its history, architecture, and significance.

Golden Horn and Bosphorus Cruise: Some boat tours of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn include a stop at the Suleymaniye Mosque, allowing you to see the grandeur of the mosque from a different perspective.