Eyüp Sultan Mosque | Istanbul

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque (Turkish: Eyüp Sultan Camii) is one of Istanbul's most revered and historic mosques. Located in the Eyüp district, near the Golden Horn, it is not only a significant place of worship but also a symbol of spiritual importance in the city, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and tourists alike.

History and Significance

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is dedicated to Eyüp El-Ensari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. According to Islamic tradition, Eyüp El-Ensari was one of the Prophet's close companions and a heroic figure who fought in key battles during the early days of Islam. He is believed to have died during the siege of Constantinople in 672 CE, and his tomb is located at the mosque site, making it an important pilgrimage site for Muslims.

The mosque itself was originally built in 1458, shortly after the conquest of Constantinople by Sultan Mehmed II. The tomb of Eyüp Sultan was already a revered site before the mosque was constructed, and Sultan Mehmed II commissioned the building of the mosque to honor Eyüp's memory and to establish a major religious complex in the area.

The mosque has undergone several renovations and restorations over the centuries, including major ones during the 18th century under Sultan Ahmed III and again in the 20th century. However, its essential structure and spiritual significance have remained intact.

Architecture

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is designed in the classical Ottoman architectural style, with a large central dome, flanked by smaller domes, and surrounded by elegant courtyards and minarets. The mosque's interior is rich in decorative tile work, calligraphy, and ornate carvings typical of Ottoman design, reflecting the grandeur of the era.

Dome and Minarets: The mosque features a large central dome supported by an octagonal base, with two minarets standing tall on either side. The minarets are designed in a traditional Ottoman style, slender and elegant, with a broad balcony at the top for the muezzin to call the adhan (prayer call).

Courtyard: The mosque is surrounded by a beautiful, spacious courtyard with a fountain at its center, which is common in many Ottoman mosque complexes. This space adds to the tranquility and serene atmosphere of the mosque.

Interior Design: The interior of the mosque is known for its intricate calligraphy, featuring verses from the Quran, and beautiful Iznik tiles that line the walls, creating a peaceful and sacred ambiance for worshippers. The mihrab (prayer niche), minbar (pulpit), and muezzin’s platform are all elaborately designed in classic Ottoman style.

The Tomb of Eyüp Sultan

The central feature of the complex is the tomb of Eyüp Sultan itself, which is located beside the mosque. This tomb is one of the most sacred and visited pilgrimage sites in Istanbul.

Pilgrimage and Religious Importance: Muslims believe that visiting the tomb of Eyüp Sultan is a way of receiving blessings, and it is often a site of deep reflection and prayer. For centuries, people have come to this site to seek spiritual solace, guidance, and intercession from Eyüp Sultan, who is considered a figure of great reverence and virtue in Islamic tradition.

Tomb Structure: The tomb is housed in a small, dome-like structure, with a decorative gate and a canopy. Visitors often approach the tomb with reverence, offering prayers and reflecting on the spiritual significance of the site.

Eyüp Sultan and the Conquest of Constantinople

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque holds an additional historical significance because of its connection to the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. It is said that when Sultan Mehmed II (also known as Mehmed the Conqueror) laid siege to the city, he made a vow to the Prophet Muhammad's companion, Eyüp Sultan, for his success in conquering the city. After the victory, Mehmed II ordered the construction of the mosque and the mosque complex to honor Eyüp Sultan’s memory and fulfill his vow.

This connection between Eyüp Sultan and the fall of Byzantine Constantinople adds an extra layer of historical depth to the mosque’s significance. For this reason, it remains not only a religious but also a symbolic site of the Ottoman Empire's victory and the birth of Istanbul as the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

Surrounding Area

The Eyüp district surrounding the mosque is a charming and historic part of Istanbul, with winding streets, traditional cafés, and markets. Many visitors enjoy walking through the district before or after visiting the mosque, soaking in the Ottoman-era architecture and the local culture.

Pierre Loti Café: One of the most popular spots nearby is the Pierre Loti Café, which offers stunning views of the Golden Horn and the mosque. The café is named after the French writer Pierre Loti, who lived in the area and is said to have frequented the café. Visitors can reach the café by cable car or a short walk up the hill.

Eyüp Cemetery: The Eyüp Cemetery surrounds the mosque and is one of Istanbul’s most notable historic cemeteries. It is the resting place of many prominent figures from the Ottoman era, including sultans, viziers, and scholars. The graves, marked by intricately designed tombstones, reflect the Islamic tradition of honoring the dead.

Events and Festivals

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is also a central point of celebration during Islamic festivals. The holy month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are especially significant, with large crowds gathering at the mosque for prayers. The Friday prayers (Jumu'ah) are another major occasion, attracting worshippers from all over Istanbul.

The mosque is also a site of religious ceremonies and important spiritual events, such as the Mevlid (celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday), during which special prayers and recitations take place.

Visiting the Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Location: The mosque is located in the Eyüp district, just north of the Golden Horn. It’s easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and ferries.

Opening Hours: The mosque is open daily for prayers and visitors. However, it is advisable to visit outside of prayer times, especially during Friday prayers or religious festivals, when it can become quite crowded.

Dress Code: As with all mosques in Istanbul, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Women are required to cover their heads with a scarf, and men should wear long pants and avoid shorts. Visitors should also remove their shoes before entering the mosque.

Admission: There is no entrance fee to visit the mosque or the tomb of Eyüp Sultan.

Conclusion

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is an iconic and sacred site in Istanbul, steeped in both religious significance and historical importance. Its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and connection to the conquest of Constantinople make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Istanbul’s rich heritage. Whether you are interested in its spiritual significance, historical context, or simply its stunning beauty, the mosque offers a peaceful and reflective experience in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.