History of Suleymaniye Mosque

Gokce Nacar

Jul 23 1391 read

History of Suleymaniye Mosque

Visitors of Istanbul often visit the renowned triangle of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace before shopping at Grand Bazaar. The Istanbul tour is restricted to this triangle mainly for cruise ship passengers and everyday visitors to Istanbul. Those staying for two nights or longer are treated to a Bosphorus cruise, a visit to Spice Bazaar, and entertainment on Istiklal Avenue. However, you cannot miss the magnifient Suleymaniye Mosque, made by the famous Mimar Sinan!

Istanbul's Suleymaniye Mosque

Due to time constraints and the abundance of attractions in Istanbul, the Magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque Complex is often overlooked. The madrasa, library, hospital, school, Turkish bath, kitchen, and stores were all constructed for the public during Ottoman times. The mausoleum of the most powerful Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and his wife Hürrem Sultan (known as Roxelana), with whom he had a great love affair, are among the buildings inside the complex.

The Süleymaniye Mosque is a notable building on one of the city's seven hills. When seen from the Golden Horn's edge to the Historical Peninsula, it shows itself as a gem. Architect (Mimar) Sinan and Sultan Suleiman had intended for this to happen. Suleiman the Magnificent's greatness is commemorated with a historical monument in the heart of ancient Istanbul.

Suleymaniye Mosque of Mimar Sinan

You are filled with intuition and serenity as you walk through the grounds around the mosque. Here, unlike in front of the Blue Mosque, there are no lengthy lineups or chaos. You have everything you need to fully appreciate the architecture and go on a spiritual trip. With its porphyry, marble, and granite columns and riwaqs, the mosque's courtyard exudes a mystical splendor and symmetry. When you enter the mosque, you are greeted with a simple splendor. The dome, walls, and columns are devoid of ornate ornamentation. With its walls, columns, engravings, and stained-glass windows, it encompasses you as a complete. Suleymaniye Mosque is the epitome of simplicity and calm knowledge.

Suleymaniye Mosque Architecture

The dome of the mosque is 47 meters high, with elephant foot pillars supporting it on all four sides. As a result, the central space under the dome seems larger than that of the Blue Mosque, which has elephant foot pillars closer to the center. For those concerned in aesthetics, the structure's scale and flawless symmetry are remarkable. It demonstrates why Mimar Sinan was the most renowned architect in the Ottoman Empire's 620-year history. Despite the fact that Selimiye Mosque is considered the pinnacle of Sinan's design, Süleymaniye Mosque is by far Istanbul's finest.

The graves of Suleiman and his wife Roxelana (Hürrem Sultan) are located next to the Mosque. You may go to the southern wing of the Mosque from these graves and get one of the finest views of Istanbul. The narrative of Roxelana's transformation from youthful handmaiden to Sultan Suleiman's bride is a genuine legend. As Suleiman the Magnificent's wife, Roxelana became an important component of the empire's power structure. She is the first and most powerful woman of the Sultanate of Women period.

Suleymaniye Mosque Hours of Opening

The Suleymaniye Mosque is open for visitors at 8:30 a.m. Except for prayer hours, the mosque is accessible to tourists until 6:00 p.m. Before you go, double-check the current prayer hours. You may also visit ancient sites around Suleymaniye Mosque, such as Hagia Sophia Mosque and Basilica Cistern, if you are there. Make the most of this area's history and culture by taking use of it!