5 Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) – Istanbul, Turkey
One of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque’s interior is adorned with more than 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles in various shades of blue, giving the mosque its popular name.
The Blue Mosque is a quintessential example of Ottoman architecture, blending Byzantine Christian elements from the nearby Hagia Sophia with traditional Islamic architecture. Its six minarets, cascading domes, and grand courtyard make it a striking sight from both inside and outside. The interior is illuminated by more than 200 stained glass windows, allowing natural light to filter in and enhance the mesmerizing beauty of the blue tiles.
