Blue Mosque

Definition

The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and architectural grandeur. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I, it serves as an important example of Ottoman architecture, merging Islamic tradition with Byzantine influences. Its distinctive features, including six minarets and a large central dome, symbolize the power and sophistication of the Ottoman Empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Blue Mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I to reassert Ottoman power after military setbacks and to compete with the nearby Hagia Sophia.
2. The mosque's interior is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted ceramic tiles in various shades of blue, giving it its nickname.
3. Its architectural design includes a large central dome surrounded by smaller domes, creating a striking silhouette on the Istanbul skyline.
4. Unlike many mosques that feature four minarets, the Blue Mosque's six minarets initially caused controversy, leading to the addition of a seventh minaret at the Kaaba in Mecca.
5. The Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship and a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the blend of Islamic artistry and architecture.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast the architectural features of the Blue Mosque with those of other significant mosques from the Ottoman period.
  • The Blue Mosque is notable for its unique combination of six minarets and a grand central dome, setting it apart from other Ottoman mosques like the Suleymaniye Mosque, which has four minarets. Additionally, while many mosques emphasize intricate tile work or elaborate calligraphy, the Blue Mosque's extensive use of blue tiles creates a distinctive aesthetic that reflects both Islamic artistry and local influences. The blending of these architectural elements demonstrates the sophistication of Ottoman design during its peak.
• Evaluate the significance of the Blue Mosque within the context of Ottoman power and cultural expression during its construction.
  • Constructed during a period when the Ottoman Empire faced challenges, such as military defeats and internal strife, the Blue Mosque was a powerful symbol of resilience and authority. Its grandeur represented Sultan Ahmed I's desire to affirm his rule and cultural legacy. The mosque's architectural brilliance not only showcased Ottoman engineering skills but also served as a testament to the empire's commitment to religious devotion and artistic excellence, merging various influences into a unified expression of faith.
• Assess how the design and artistic elements of the Blue Mosque reflect broader trends in Islamic art and architecture during the early 17th century.
  • The design of the Blue Mosque encapsulates broader trends in Islamic art and architecture through its harmonious proportions, elaborate tile work, and innovative use of space. This period saw a shift towards more ambitious architectural projects that emphasized grandeur while integrating local artistic traditions. The extensive use of ceramics and intricate patterns reflects an ongoing dialogue between Islamic aesthetic values and regional influences. By examining these elements in the context of contemporary developments across the empire, one can appreciate how the Blue Mosque stands as a landmark not only in Istanbul but also within the larger narrative of Islamic architectural evolution.

Related terms

Ottoman Architecture:

A style of architecture that flourished under the Ottoman Empire, characterized by grand mosques, intricate tile work, and harmonious proportions.

Minaret:

A tall tower typically found at mosques from which the call to prayer is announced; the Blue Mosque has six minarets, which was unprecedented for its time.

Mosaic: A form of art created by arranging small pieces of colored glass or stone to create decorative patterns or images; used extensively in both Byzantine and Islamic architecture.