Blue Mosque
Six minarets and a sea of blue Iznik tiles
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known worldwide as the Blue Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 for Sultan Ahmed I. With its cascade of domes and six slender minarets it is the defining silhouette of Sultanahmet and one of the finest works of classical Ottoman architecture.
The nickname comes from the interior. More than 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in blues, greens and turquoise cover the walls, catching the light from over 200 stained glass windows. The mosque remains a place of daily worship, which makes visiting it feel alive rather than museum like.
What to See
The Iznik Tiles
The lower galleries carry the richest tilework, with tulip, carnation and cypress motifs produced in the famous kilns of Iznik.
The Six Minarets
A rarity in Ottoman architecture. Legend says the sultan asked for gold minarets, altin in Turkish, and the architect heard alti, meaning six.
The Courtyard
The vast marble forecourt is as large as the mosque itself and offers one of the best photo angles toward the domes at sunset.
Sultanahmet Square
The mosque faces Hagia Sophia across the old Hippodrome, where the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column still stand.
Getting There from Emerald Mansion
The Blue Mosque is the closest major landmark to Emerald Mansion, about 250 meters away. The walk takes roughly 3 minutes, which means you can hear the call to prayer from the hotel and be in the courtyard moments later.
Staying this close lets you visit at quiet times, right after opening or between prayers, when the interior is at its most peaceful.
Visiting Tips
- 01Entry is free. The mosque closes to visitors during the five daily prayers and on Friday around midday prayer.
- 02Dress modestly. Shoulders and knees must be covered and women need a headscarf. Wraps are available at the entrance.
- 03You will remove your shoes before entering. Plastic bags are provided, or bring your own tote.
- 04Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and thinner crowds.
- 05Photography is welcome, but avoid photographing worshippers during prayer.
Opening hours and ticket prices change through the year. Please check the official website before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the Blue Mosque from Emerald Mansion?
About 250 meters. It is a 3 minute walk from the hotel, the closest major landmark to our door.
Is there an entry fee for the Blue Mosque?
No. Entry is free for all visitors. Donations are optional.
When is the Blue Mosque closed to visitors?
The mosque closes to tourists during the five daily prayer times and for a longer period around Friday midday prayer. Outside those windows it is open through the day.
Why is it called the Blue Mosque?
The name comes from the more than 20,000 blue toned Iznik tiles that decorate the interior walls and domes.
More to Explore Nearby
Sultanahmet rewards slow walking. These landmarks are all within a short stroll of each other, so you can easily combine two or three in a single day.
Stay Steps Away
Emerald Mansion is a boutique hotel in the heart of Sultanahmet. Wake up minutes from the landmarks of the Old City and explore them before the crowds arrive.