The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, stands tall as a magnificent testament to Ottoman architecture in Istanbul, Türkiye. Constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, this iconic mosque sits next to the Byzantine Hippodrome and faces the renowned Hagia Sophia. Designed by the esteemed architect Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa, the mosque boasts several distinctive features, including six minarets – a rarity in mosque architecture.
The interior of the Blue Mosque features over 20,000 hand-painted ceramic tiles in the Iznik pottery style, featuring intricate floral and abstract patterns that give the mosque its renowned blue hue. These tiles and the roughly 260 stained-glass windows create a mesmerizing play of light and color within the prayer hall. The central dome, towering at 43 m, is supported by four massive pillars and surrounded by cascading smaller semi-domes. The Blue Mosque’s significance transcends its physical beauty. Situated opposite the Hagia Sophia, it symbolized the triumph of Islamic architecture over a converted Christian church. With its rich history, intricate craftsmanship, and symbolic location, the Blue Mosque continues to captivate and inspire all who encounter its splendor.
Hannah Kim For The Junior Times junior/1714615536/1613368124
1. When was the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, constructed?
2. Who was the architect of the Blue Mosque?
3. How many minarets does the Blue Mosque have, and why is this significant?
4. How many hand-painted ceramic tiles are featured in the interior of the Blue Mosque?
1. Have you ever visited a historic landmark like the Blue Mosque? If so, what was your experience like?
2. What do you think makes the Blue Mosque an iconic symbol of Ottoman architecture?
3. How do you think the location of the Blue Mosque, facing the Hagia Sophia, contributes to its historical significance?
4. Why do you think historic landmarks like the Blue Mosque continue to attract visitors from around the world?
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, stands tall as a magnificent testament to Ottoman architecture in Istanbul, Türkiye. Constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, this iconic mosque sits next to the Byzantine Hippodrome and faces the renowned Hagia Sophia. Designed by the esteemed architect Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa, the mosque boasts several distinctive features, including six minarets – a rarity in mosque architecture.
