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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.พ. 2025
- The Blue Mosque (officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, Turkey. It stands as a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and a prominent symbol of Istanbul’s cultural and historical significance. Here's a detailed look at this magnificent mosque:
1. History and Construction
Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque was designed by the architect Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa, a student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.
The mosque was built to rival the Hagia Sophia in grandeur and beauty. Sultan Ahmed I commissioned the mosque both as a place of worship and to restore Ottoman prestige after the military setbacks in the early 17th century.
It was completed during Sultan Ahmed's reign, but the Sultan did not live to see it fully finished. It remains an important part of Istanbul's religious and cultural heritage.
2. Architecture and Design
Exterior: The mosque’s exterior is characterized by its sweeping, domed roof and six minarets, which was a controversial feature at the time because only the Grand Mosque in Mecca had six minarets. This led to the nickname "Blue Mosque" when it was later associated with its stunning interior blue tiles.
Interior: The mosque's interior is adorned with over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles from Iznik (Nicaea) and features a predominant color scheme of blue, giving it its iconic name.
The tiles depict a wide range of floral designs, particularly tulips, roses, and carnations.
The central dome, which rises 43 meters high, is supported by four massive columns.
Prayers and Layout: The mosque follows a traditional Ottoman prayer hall layout with a large prayer area under the central dome. The prayer hall is spacious and can hold up to 10,000 worshippers.
The interior is illuminated by 260 windows, which were designed to allow natural light to flow in and enhance the ambiance of the space.
The mihrab (prayer niche) is a stunning example of Islamic artistry, and the mosque’s mimbar (pulpit) is intricately carved.
3. Six Minarets
The mosque features six minarets, which was an unprecedented feature at the time. The sultan’s decision to build the mosque with six minarets was initially controversial because the Grand Mosque in Mecca had six, and some viewed it as a challenge to the sacred mosque.
To resolve this issue, Sultan Ahmed I ordered the construction of a seventh minaret in Mecca, thereby ensuring that the Blue Mosque was not seen as competing with the sacred mosque.
4. The Courtyard
The courtyard of the Blue Mosque is vast and contains an obelisk, a fountain, and arcaded walkways. The courtyard is surrounded by a continuous arcade with 30 small domes and is designed to create a sense of peace and serenity for worshippers.
It is accessed through a grand entrance gate and is often the first place visitors step into before entering the main prayer hall.
5. Use and Significance
The mosque is an active place of worship and is open to the public for visits outside of prayer times.
It is a popular tourist attraction and an essential stop on any visit to Istanbul. Many visitors come to admire the architecture, the peaceful atmosphere, and the stunning mosaics and tiles inside.
The Blue Mosque is one of the holiest mosques in Istanbul and remains a functional mosque for daily prayers, including the Friday prayers, which are highly attended.
6. Visitors and Etiquette
Visitors are welcome to tour the mosque, but they are expected to adhere to certain rules of respect and decorum.
Women are required to cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders, arms, and knees.
Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the mosque's prayer areas.
It is important to respect prayer times and refrain from disturbing worshippers.
7. Cultural and Religious Importance
The Blue Mosque remains a symbol of the grandeur and legacy of the Ottoman Empire. It also symbolizes the Islamic faith and the cultural fusion between Ottoman, Byzantine, and Persian influences.
As one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, it is an important cultural and architectural landmark not only for Turkey but for the Islamic world as a whole
8. Modern-Day Significance
Today, the Blue Mosque continues to attract millions of visitors annually, from both religious pilgrims and tourists. It is also a venue for major religious ceremonies and public events.
It stands as a symbol of peace, harmony, and the rich Islamic heritage of Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Ottoman era.
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