Süleymaniye Mosque

Located on the Third Hill, Süleymaniye Mosque is the second largest mosque in Istanbul. The domes of the mosque create the famous landmark of Istanbul. Built by Sultan Süleyman I in 1557, the Süleymaniye Mosque is an Ottoman masterpiece. The spacious courtyard, columns and arches in uniformity reveal the magnificence of the structure from outside. The main dome is surrounded by multiple semi-domes and four slender minarets. The interior of Süleymaniye Mosque is simple yet breathtaking. The ivory decorations and restrained use of Iznik tiles is pleasing to the eyes. The stained-glass windows and painted muqarnas add to the subtle serenity. The light decoration gives an airy open feeling to the inner prayer halls. The garden behind the main mosque contains tombs of Sultan Suleiman I and his wife Hürrem Sultan. The tomb of Mimar Sinan, the imperial architect who designed the mosque, rests just outside the walls of the mosque. Wander around this imperial mosque and experience the grandeur of one of the grandest mosques in Istanbul. Avoid visiting during prayer hours and on Fridays, as the mosque gets crowded with worshippers.