Istanbul attracts millions of tourists from all around Turkey and the world. Whether it’s a Bosphorus cruise, exploring the city’s numerous historical sites and museums, enjoying kumpir in Ortaköy, or savoring fish sandwiches in Eminönü, Istanbul offers countless unforgettable experiences. Among the city’s myriad must-visit landmarks is the Süleymaniye Mosque, an iconic Ottoman structure commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by one of history’s most renowned architects, Mimar Sinan. Let’s dive into the fascinating story, architecture, and historical significance of this masterpiece.
The Story of Süleymaniye Mosque
Mimar Sinan famously described the Süleymaniye Mosque as his “masterpiece of apprenticeship.” Several intriguing anecdotes surround the mosque’s construction. One of the most popular tales goes as follows:
Sultan Suleiman wanted to showcase the grandeur and might of the Ottoman Empire through this mosque. However, the construction took seven years, and delays began to irritate the Sultan. Curious about the delays, Suleiman decided to investigate and visited the site. To his astonishment, he found Mimar Sinan seemingly idle, sitting and smoking a nargile (hookah) in the mosque’s center. Furious, the Sultan demanded an explanation.
What Suleiman failed to notice was that Sinan wasn’t actually smoking; the nargile bowl was missing. Instead, Sinan was observing how the water bubbles carried sound vibrations. He was meticulously testing the mosque’s acoustics to ensure the imam’s voice would evenly reach every corner of the grand space. Once the Sultan understood the reasoning, he forgave the architect, acknowledging his dedication to perfection.
Location and Directions to Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, in the neighborhood that shares its name, Süleymaniye. The mosque’s prominent position provides breathtaking views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
How to Go to The Süleymaniye Mosque
- Metro: From Yenikapı, Taksim, or Levent, take the M2 line to Vezneciler station. A short walk will lead you to the mosque.
- Marmaray: From Sirkeci station, a 15-minute walk will bring you to Süleymaniye Mosque.
- Ferry: From Kadıköy or Üsküdar, take a ferry to Eminönü, then walk for 15 minutes.
- Tram: Use the Bağcılar-Kabataş tram line and get off at Laleli or Beyazıt stations, a 5-10 minute walk from the mosque.
Historical Background of Süleymaniye Mosque
Constructed between 1551 and 1557, the Süleymaniye Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by Mimar Sinan. As part of a larger complex or külliye, the mosque was surrounded by supporting structures, including shops, a school, a library, madrassas (Islamic schools), a bathhouse, a hospital, and a soup kitchen.
Architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque has withstood centuries without a single crack, earning it the nickname “the mosque that will never collapse.” Its design includes four minarets, representing the four sultans who reigned from Istanbul’s conquest to the mosque’s completion. Additionally, the ten balconies symbolize Sultan Suleiman as the 10th Ottoman ruler.
Upon entering the mosque, visitors are struck by the balance of simplicity and grandeur. The interior features four massive columns, sourced from significant locations:
- Topkapı Palace
- Vefa District in Istanbul
- Alexandria in Egypt
- Baalbek Temple in Lebanon
The mosque’s dome, 27.5 meters in diameter and 53 meters high, is a stunning feat of engineering. Natural light streams through 32 windows, enhancing its serene and spacious ambiance.
Little-Known Facts About Süleymaniye Mosque
- Hacer-ül Esved Stone: A piece of the Black Stone from Mecca is embedded above the entrance to Sultan Suleiman’s tomb. This sacred stone is forbidden to touch.
- Golden Ratio: The mosque’s dimensions adhere to the golden ratio, 1.618, adding mathematical harmony to its design.
- Soot Room: To prevent smoke from damaging the mosque’s interiors, soot from oil lamps and candles was collected in a dedicated room. The soot was later used to make ink, contributing to Ottoman manuscripts.
A Must-See Landmark
Standing in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Fatih district, the Süleymaniye Mosque is a striking example of Ottoman architecture and ingenuity. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or casual traveler, the Süleymaniye Mosque deserves a place on your Istanbul itinerary.
