Today Istanbul is becoming more modern, but it still has not lost its unique flavor. In addition to the famous Grand Bazaar, in Istanbul you can visit Sultanahmet Square, on the territory of which the Blue Mosque is located.
A bit of history
The Blue Mosque is a unique structure of architectural value. The mosque was built on the personal order of Sultan Ahmed I, who lost a lot of wars and lost large territories. In order to win the favor of the Gods, Ahmed I began building a mosque.
Construction began in 1609 and ended seven years later. Use precious stones and marble during construction.
The building has a makhrib (or prayer niche), and it was carved from a single block of marble. In the makhrib there is a unique black stone that was brought to the Blue Mosque from Mecca.
During the construction of the mosque, the best techniques of the classical and Byzantine styles of architecture were used, and special attention was paid to both engineering structures and decoration elements. It is not without reason that the architect who supervised the construction of the Blue Mosque was called a "jeweler" for this work.
Interiors
When decorating the building, ceramic tiles were used, which were painted with white and blue paints. Thanks to the correct proportion of these particular colors, it was possible to achieve a visual effect - the mosque seems bluish.
Tiles were produced at the Inzik manufactory, which was forced to work only for the Blue Mosque, canceling all other contracts. Because of this, the manufactory went bankrupt.
The wall to which the prayers are turned during the reading of prayer speeches was decorated with 260 stained-glass windows. However, unfortunately, time and other cataclysms turned out to be merciless, so many of the most beautiful stained-glass windows with unique drawings have already been replaced. The floors in the rooms are covered with handmade carpets.
Minarets
In addition to its unique design and color, the Blue Mosque has one more feature - it has six minarets, while the standard should be four. According to a legend that has survived to this day, the chief architect confused something and unintentionally increased the number of minarets to six.
Initially, the Blue Mosque included two schools (primary and spiritual), as well as hospitals, caravanserais, turbes and charitable companies, but hospitals and caravanserais have not survived to this day.
Information for tourists: opening hours, how to get there
For tourists, visiting this cultural attraction is open every day, but not all halls can be entered. For some rooms, it is necessary to take off your shoes and wear closed clothing (a cape can be bought right near the entrance to such rooms). The mosque is open from 9 to the order every day, but it is worth remembering to take a break for prayer when the mosque closes.
The symbol of the city is located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara, in the Sultanahmet area, just opposite the equally popular Ayasofia Museum. Coordinates 41 ° 00'20 ″ s. sh. 28 ° 58'35 ″ in. D.
