A couple of years ago I got to travel through Turkey and was fascinated by all the beautiful mosques of Istanbul. I went on a mosque hunt through the city and got to see some amazing mosques. The Süleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul, and definitely one of the best-known sights of Istanbul. I got there late the afternoon and by the time I got outside it was too dark to take any photos of its exterior. I hope that I will be able to come back someday and photograph the beautiful outside as well.
I had to cover my head and shoulders upon entering the mosque, and luckily there wasn’t a service on so I could take some photos inside. I always feel awkward taking photos inside churches and mosques and always refrain from doing so if there are people praying, as a show of respect. I feel that I would not like if of people took photos of me praying, so try and return the favour.
This beautiful mosque, built in 1558, blended Islamic and Byzantine architectural elements.. The main dome is 53 meters high and has a diameter of 27.25 meters. I just loved the huge chandelier of the Süleymaniye Mosque that was nearly as wide as this beautiful dome. The blue and white tiles along with the chandeliers create a very tranquil atmosphere in which I would love to spend some time.
At the time it was built, the dome was the highest in the Ottoman Empire, when measured from sea level, but still lower from its base and smaller in diameter than that of Hagia Sophia. I got to visit both mosque’s and still cant decide which one I like the most.
Which one would you choose, Hagia Sophia or Süleymaniye?
Janaline's world journey 
wonderful place
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is beautiful. But would love to be able to see the outside next time.
LikeLike
Beautiful shots. I missed the interior because we shot the exterior and the garden area at dawn, for a class I was taking. I need to go back and go inside.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Seems together we have seen the mosque as I missed the garden and exterior….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful place! I long to go to Istambul one day. I read a few book about this unique city.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Istanbul is a very vibrant and unique city. I do hope that you get to travel there someday.
LikeLike
A firm favourite of mine for sure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A mosque filled with so much character.
LikeLiked by 1 person
stunning interiors! Thanks for sharing
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are welcome! I cant decide if I like the tiles or the lanterns / chandeliers the most.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I do love the tiles, but the lanterns are beautiful too! 🤔
LikeLike
Baie dankie vir jou pos elke week Janaline, ek sien uit daarna
LikeLiked by 1 person
So bly jy geniet dit!!!
LikeLike
Stunning pictures, difficult to decide since I haven’t seen either, in bricks and mortar, so to speak but all places of worship have their own character, don’t they?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree, each place of worship has its own identity and character.
LikeLike
I love Istanbul. Can’t say I have been to this mosque but the Hagia Sophia was stunning. It was a few years ago that I last visited but it still stands out strongly in my memories of the city.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I visited a couple of years ago and would go back anytime! Turkey is such a vibrant and beautiful country.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I always enjoy seeing the beautiful workmanship in buildings like this one. The ornate blue and white tiles are so gorgeous.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree! I love those tiles and would love to have a bathroom or patio wall tiled in such tiles.
LikeLike
I feel the same. Poland is full of beautiful churches but I only take photos if I don’t feel intrusive. Did you see Alison and Dons post on Hagia Sofia? Apparently half of it is in ruins and in dispute over the renovation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh wow, that is so sad, I will go and have a look at their post now. Cant believe they would risk damaging such a beautiful mosque.
LikeLiked by 1 person