RUSTEM PASHA MOSQUE

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES OF THE RUSTEM PASA CAMISI

The Rustem Pasha Mosque is a central planned structure, featuring a single minaret. Its courtyard boasts an interesting architectural style, with a small, attractive terrace covered by five small domes. The central dome is placed on four wall proportions and two columns, supported by four large pillars that hold up four half-domes. The arches of the large dome, which has 24 windows, include four octagonal pillars. The minbar and mihrap are made from marble, and the nathex contains six columns and five domes. Additionally, the single minaret balcony was rebuilt in place of the original one.

However, the Rustem Pasha Mosque was damaged in a fire in 1660. Both the minaret and the dome of the mosque were demolished after the major earthquake in Istanbul in 1776. It was restored during the reign of Mustafa II (1664-1703).

THE IZNIK TILES

Upon entering the Rustem Pasha Mosque, visitors are greeted by the stunning tiles that cover every aspect of the structure. The genius architect Sinan created a unique style, deviating from his usual simplicity. He adorned the tiles with tulip motifs and used red as the primary color, which is unusual for tile work. The use of İznik tiles, particularly in the interior design, transports visitors to a historical world, evoking feelings of the Ottoman Empire. The tulip, a symbol of wealth and abundance for the Ottomans, serves to reflect the grandeur of the period of Sultan Süleiman the Magnificent, as intended by Architect Sinan.

THE STORY OF THE MOSQUE

According to legend, the Great Architect Sinan fell in love with Mihrimah Sultan, the daughter of Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. However, she was already married to Rustem Pasha. As a result, Sinan initially built the mosque in a simple style, as it was intended for Rustem Pasha. But later on, at the request of Sultan Suleiman, he adorned the mosque with the beautiful tiles.

Today, the Rustem Pasha Mosque is highly regarded and has been named the best mosque in Europe by the prominent American magazine Newsweek.

5 REASONS TO SEE RUSTEM PASHA MOSQUE DURING YOUR TRIP TO ISTANBUL TURKEY

1. The Architecture: The Rustem Pasha Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, featuring a central planned structure with a single minaret and a courtyard with a small terrace covered by five small domes. The central dome is placed on four wall proportions and two columns, supported by four large pillars that hold up four half-domes. The arches of the large dome, which has 24 windows, include four octagonal pillars.
2. The Iznik Tiles: One of the most striking features of the Rustem Pasha Mosque is its intricate tile work, which adorns every aspect of the structure. The tiles are adorned with tulip motifs and use red as the primary color, which is unusual for tile work. The use of İznik tiles, particularly in the interior design, transports visitors to a historical world, evoking feelings of the Ottoman Empire.
3. The Story: The Rustem Pasha Mosque has a rich history and an interesting story behind it. According to legend, the Great Architect Sinan fell in love with Mihrimah Sultan, the daughter of Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. However, she was already married to Rustem Pasha. As a result, Sinan initially built the mosque in a simple style, as it was intended for Rustem Pasha. But later on, at the request of Sultan Suleiman, he adorned the mosque with the beautiful tiles.
4. The Location: The Rustem Pasha Mosque is located in the Eminonu district of Istanbul, on an uphill road that connects the Hasircilar Bazaar to the seaside. This location provides visitors with a unique perspective of the city, with views of the sea and the surrounding area.
5. The Recognition: The Rustem Pasha Mosque has been highly regarded and has been named the best mosque in Europe by the prominent American magazine Newsweek. This recognition highlights the mosque’s importance and beauty, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Istanbul.

At Tour Maker Turkey, we offer tours to Rustem Pasha Mosque and other iconic destinations in Istanbul, Turkey. Contact us to learn more about our tour packages and to book your trip today!