Süleymaniye Mosque – The Third Hill Gem of Istanbul
Süleymaniye Mosque, located on the third hill of Istanbul-The city of seven hills, is one of the most beautiful historical assets of the Ottoman Empire. The biggest mosque of the Ottoman Empire and indeed a shining gem of Istanbul. People from all over the world come to Istanbul to see the beauty of this mesmerizing mosque. If you plan to visit Istanbul, you must add Süleymaniye Mosque to your visiting list.
Story Behind Süleymaniye Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque is the shine of Istanbul’s night view, like Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque. It is the biggest mosque in this city, and it illuminates the city with its beauty and historical heritage. Its architecture, design, interior, domes, construction, everything is done so professionally that it blows the mind of tourists and visitors. Let’s discuss the history and architecture of the Süleymaniye Mosque.
History of Süleymaniye Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque’s history shows how the Ottoman Empire’s longest-reigning Sultan valued family.
This mosque is under the name of Suleiman the magnificent. Sultan Suleiman himself gave orders to build this eminent mosque in the remembrance of his loveliest son Shehzade Mehmed. Its construction started in 1550, and finally, after 7 years, in 1557, this masterpiece got completed. It was damaged by war and fire in later years but restored.
Mimar Sinan – The Chief architect of the Ottoman Empire designed this magnificent mosque. He designed many other mosques excellently, like Şehzade Mosque, Mihrimah Sultan, Rüstem Pasha Mosque, and Cihangir Mosque. No doubt, Mimar Sinan had the remarkable architectural skills that made him create the great mosques of Istanbul so gracefully.
The Architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque
Mimar Sinan designed Süleymaniye Mosque inspired by the design and architecture of Hagia Sofia and Bayezid II Mosque. That’s why you find similarities in the structure and design of these mosques. Some people ask this question sometimes, why does Süleymaniye Mosque looks like Hagia Sofia, so you have got the answer, right?
This mosque also has octagonal mausoleums of Sultan Suleiman and his wife, Hurrem Sultan. Religious verses are beautifully inscribed on the walls and ceiling of the mosque. Amazingly designed domes look so magnificent and impressive.
Exterior
There is a courtyard in the mosque, the center of which lies a splendid fountain, enhancing the entry view of the mosque. Lined columns of granite and marble beautify the entrance. Four minarets are present in the courtyard, and two of them have built-in galleries. Iznik tiles are also used in its construction which is a prominent feature of this mosque. This mosque looks nothing less than heaven at night due to its beautifully placed lights that shine on visitors’ eyes. These mosques give Istanbul such a night beauty that other cities lack.
Interior
Süleymaniye Mosque’s interior also gives a reflection of Hagia Sofia. The vast and bright lanterns hanging from the glorious domes look so mesmerizing. Quranic verses written on marble tiles on the ceiling look fantastic. Red carpets are laid down to offer prayer for Muslims. Overall it is a glorious and splendid mosque. We highly recommend you to visit this mosque whenever you plan to visit.
A Tour Guide to Visit Süleymaniye Mosque
In order to visit this glorious Süleymaniye Mosque, it is better to get guidance about timings, rules, location, and exciting things about the mosque. So, you would be well aware of everything already, and you won’t have to face any difficulty while reaching it. A guided tour makes your trip more comfortable and memorable, and you enjoy it more in your trip. Here is a guide for you to visit the Süleymaniye Mosque.
Location of Süleymaniye Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque is located on the third hill of Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul has a total of seven beautiful hills. These hills are easily reachable by any transport. This mosque is located near the grand bazaar and spice Bazar, so you can easily reach it. Its exact address is “Süleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey”
Opening Timings of Süleymaniye Mosque
Many people ask about Süleymaniye Mosque’s period, so Süleymaniye Mosque remains open from 4:30 Am to 11:30 Pm. Muslims get united and pray in this mosque. This mosque remains closed for tourists during prayer spans.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Süleymaniye Mosque?
We recommend you visit Süleymaniye Mosque on working days as this mosque remains crowded with tourists on weekends.
Rules to Visit Süleymaniye Mosque
Before visiting Süleymaniye Mosque or any other mosque, you must follow some mentioned rules:
- Females should cover their hair by wearing a hijab. They should wear full clothes covering their entire body. Sleeveless and shorts are not allowed in the mosques.
- Male should also wear full clothes covering their entire body.
Entrance Fee for Süleymaniye Mosque
The Turkish government has made entrance to mosques totally free of cost. So, you would not have to pay any entrance fee to enter Süleymaniye Mosque.
How to Reach Süleymaniye Mosque?
You can reach Süleymaniye Mosque by tram, bus, or taxi. Then after walking for a few minutes, you shall reach this mosque.
You can reach this beautiful and glorious mosque by taking the T1 tram from Sultanahmet Square. After reaching the Eminönü stop, you shall walk towards the Egyptian Bazar or get a lift; then, you shall reach Süleymaniye Mosque easily.
Final verdict
Süleymaniye Mosque, standing on the hilltop of Istanbul, is a place worth visiting. It is the biggest mosque on the third hill of Istanbul, which gives such an unbelievable view of the city that refreshes your soul.
It is one of the most visited mosques due to its incredible architecture and design that leaves a substantial positive impact on a visitor’s mind. We highly recommend visiting this great mosque and refreshing your soul with its beauty and charm.