Blue Mosque: History and Construction
A visit to the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Ottoman history and architectural brilliance. As part of Istanbul’s UNESCO-listed Historic Areas, this mosque stands as a testament to imperial ambition and Islamic artistry.
On this page, you’ll find a detailed history of the Blue Mosque, including a timeline of key events, insights into its construction, the vision of its architect, and how it continues to stand as a symbol of Ottoman grandeur today.
→ For information on entrances, and public transport access, visit: Blue Mosque Location & Map
TimeLine
Key Events in the History of the Blue Mosque
The History of the Blue Mosque in Turkey
A Symbol of Power and Faith
After the Ottoman-Safavid War and the Treaty of Zsitvatorok, Sultan Ahmed I sought to reaffirm the empire’s dominance. Unlike previous sultans, he did not finance the mosque’s construction with war spoils but instead used imperial funds, a rare move at the time.
Built between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque was designed to surpass the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul’s most famous structure. It was part of a larger religious complex (külliye) that included:
A madrasah (Islamic school)
A hospice for the poor
A bazaar to fund maintenance
The tomb of Sultan Ahmed I, who was buried here after his death
→ Explore more: Inside the Blue Mosque
Construction of the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was designed by Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a pupil of the legendary architect Mimar Sinan. Combining Sinan’s engineering brilliance with elaborate Ottoman decoration, Mehmed Ağa created a mosque that reflected both strength and elegance.
Architectural Highlights
Six Minarets: A bold decision, as only the Grand Mosque in Mecca had six at the time. To resolve the controversy, an additional minaret was added to Mecca’s mosque.
Cascading Domes & Semi-Domes: A design that distributes weight evenly, inspired by Hagia Sophia.
Materials Used: Marble, granite, and over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in blue hues.
Acoustic Perfection: The interior was designed for clear sound projection, allowing prayers to be heard without modern amplification.
Despite its engineering excellence, construction was controversial at the time, as some believed the funds could have been better used for war efforts.
Who Built the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I at just 19 years old. Unlike his predecessors, Ahmed I did not achieve major military victories, so he sought to leave a lasting legacy through architecture.
The mosque’s architect, Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, was a student of Mimar Sinan, the greatest architect of the Ottoman Empire. He carefully blended Sinan’s structural innovations with decorative finesse, creating a harmonious and visually stunning masterpiece.
→ See more: Sultanahmet Square & Surroundings
The Blue Mosque Today
Today, the Blue Mosque remains a fully functioning place of worship, attracting millions of visitors annually. It continues to host:
Daily prayers with thousands of worshipers
Major religious events such as Ramadan and Eid prayers
State visits and ceremonies for dignitaries
Due to its historical and cultural importance, preservation efforts are ongoing. Recent restorations focus on strengthening its structure, cleaning its tilework, and restoring its stained-glass windows.
→ Find details on opening hours and the best time to visit on our page: Visitor Information
Most Preferred Tickets for the Blue Mosque in Turkey
Bestselling Single Guided Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mosque with an official expert guide. Immerse yourself in a captivating 60-minute journey through this architectural masterpiece.
Includes
- 60-min. Blue Mosque tour
- English-speaking tour guide
- Unlimited stay inside afterward
Bestselling Combo with Hagia Sophia Ticket
Experience Istanbul’s two most iconic mosques! Enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of the breathtaking Blue Mosque, then skip the lines and explore the majestic Hagia Sophia at your own pace.
Includes
- Hagia Sophia entrance tickets
- 1-hr tour of Hagia Sophia w/ English-speaking guide
- 1-hr tour of Blue Mosque w/ English-speaking guide
- Old City tour
Most Selling Istanbul Combo (including Blue Mosque Tour)
Discover Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks—the Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, & Hagia Sophia—with an English-speaking expert guide.
Includes
- Basilica Cistern: 30-min guided tour + skip-the-line ticket
- Blue Mosque: 1-hr guided tour
- Hagia Sophia: Skip-the-line ticket + 1-hr guided tour + audio guide
Bestselling Combo with Basilica Cistern
Enjoy a 60-minute guided tour of the Blue Mosque, then skip the lines and explore the mystical Basilica Cistern with an audio guide.
Includes
- Basilica Cistern: Skip-the-line ticket + digital audio guide
- Blue Mosque: 1-hr guided tour w/ English-speaking guide
Top-Value City Pass (including Blue Mosque Tour)
With this pass, visit 2 major attractions, enjoy the Blue Mosque, cruise the Bosphorus and access public transport for hassle-free sightseeing in Istanbul.
Includes
- Blue Mosque tour
- 1 Bosphorus Cruise
- 5-ride public transport card
- 2 additional attractions of your choice
- Audio guide
FAQs about the Blue Mosque History
Why was the Blue Mosque built?
It was built to reaffirm Ottoman power after military losses and to symbolize Islamic devotion.
How long did it take to build the Blue Mosque?
Construction lasted 7 years (1609-1616) under Sultan Ahmed I.
Why is the Blue Mosque called the Blue Mosque?
The Blue Mosque gets its name from the over 20,000 handmade blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior walls. These tiles feature intricate floral and geometric patterns, giving the mosque its distinctive appearance. While its official name is Sultanahmet Camii (Sultan Ahmet Mosque), visitors commonly refer to it as the Blue Mosque due to its striking blue interior. → Read more: Inside the Blue Mosque
Why does the Blue Mosque have six minarets?
Sultan Ahmed I wanted to build one of the grandest mosques of its time. However, six minarets were controversial, as only Mecca’s Grand Mosque had the same number. To resolve the issue, the Ottomans financed an additional minaret in Mecca.
Who was the architect of the Blue Mosque?
The mosque was designed by Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a student of Mimar Sinan, the Ottoman Empire’s most renowned architect.
What is inside the Blue Mosque?
Inside the Blue Mosque, visitors will find a vast prayer hall adorned with over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, intricate calligraphy, and a soaring central dome. The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit), both made of finely carved marble, are key focal points for worship. Massive chandeliers, stained-glass windows, and the Sultan’s private prayer lodge add to the mosque’s grandeur and spiritual ambiance. → Read more: Inside the Blue Mosque
This website is not the official venue's website. This website is giving you only an overview of the available tours.
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