Dolmabahce Mosque

Dolmabahce Mosque: A Jewel on the Bosphorus

The Dolmabahce Mosque is located near the royal Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkey. During the 19th century, it was known by the name 'Bezmialem Valide Sultan Mosque'. The mosque is one of the most visited places in Istanbul and offers great insights into the history of the Ottoman Empire. 


You can admire the architecture of the mosque, which is a combination of Ottoman and Baroque designs. Take a look at the windows made with giant circular glasses and the beautiful twin minarets that accompany the mosque. Get a chance to see the stunning interiors of the mosque. You'll find detailed designs spread across the dome-shaped ceiling in the main prayer hall. The walls of the mosque are decorated with gold calligraphy with a green background.


The Dolmabahce Mosque is one of the most historic buildings in Istanbul. It offers you a chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Ottoman Empire. Experience the views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Marmara Sea, and the Golden Horn. The soothing sound of the Bosphorus Strait, adds to the charm of the mosque.


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Why visit Dolmabahce Mosque?

  • Historical Importance: Since 1855, Dolmabahce Mosque has served as the royal mosque of the Ottoman rulers in Istanbul. Sultan Abdulmecid and his successors were known to visit the mosque for worshipping. The guests of the Dolmabahce Palace were also invited to offer prayers at the mosque with the royal family.


  • Impressive Architecture: The mosque features a unique combination of various styles in its architecture - Baroque, Rococo, and Ottoman. You can take a look at the giant windows made of circular glass and the beautiful minarets that accompany the mosque.


  • Exotic Interiors: The dome-shaped ceiling of the mosque has amazingly detailed designs made all over the prayer hall. The walls have a green background upon which you can notice the gold calligraphy. 


  • Outstanding Views: You can check out the scenic views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn, and the Marmara Sea from the Mosque. The classic architecture of the mosque combined with the soothing sounds of water from Bosphorus, is a memorable combination.


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Quick Facts about Dolmabahce Mosque

  • Dolmabahce Mosque was originally meant to be a mosque within the complex of the Dolmabahce Palace. It was built by Garabet Balyan, the same architect who designed the Palace. However, owing to the mosque's grandness and religious importance, it was then established outside the walls of the palace.


  • There was a time when the mosque used to serve as a Naval Museum. Between 1956 and 1960, it was opened to the general public as a Naval Museum and resumed as a mosque in 1967.


  • Before the 1950s, the mosque used to have a huge courtyard which was called 'Muvakkithane'. The courtyard, also known as a timekeeping house, was also accompanied by a beautiful fountain. Both of which were demolished because of road construction, and the courtyard was then shifted to the shore.


  • The mosque stands as the 59th and last of the imperial mosques built by the Ottoman Empire during their time. You'll find that its architecture is a unique blend of three styles - Ottoman, Rococo, and Baroque.


  • It covers 871 square meters of area and has been designed by a popular architect named Nikoğlu Kasim Aga. Built in 1855, the mosque stands tall to date, as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire.


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Highlights of Dolmabahce Mosque

The Dolmabahce Mosque is a stunning architectural marvel in Istanbul's Dolmabahce Palace complex. Here are some interesting highlights about the mosque:

Architecture

The architecture of the mosque is a careful blend of Baroque and Ottoman influences. Located on the coast of the Bosphorus Strait, it was built in 1855. The mosque's massive circular glass windows allow plenty of natural light and wind inside, helping you relax as you offer prayers.

Minarets

You can also check out the twin minarets that stand with the mosque. Made out of stones, the minarets add to the existing charm of the mosque. You'd be amazed to know that these minarets have survived multiple earthquakes over all these years. There's also a small balcony (Serefe) in each of the minarets, which offers amazing views of the Marmara Sea.

Interiors

The interiors of the mosque are spacious and well-lit, thanks to the huge circular glass windows. You'll also find that the walls and ceilings are decorated with beautiful golden calligraphy in Arabic with a green background. The prayer hall offers a relaxing ambiance for the devotees seeking peace.

History of Dolmabahce Mosque

The historic Dolmabahce Mosque was built in 1852, on the orders of Sultan Addulmecid. Although the mosque and the palace share the same name. It was decided to build the mosque outside the palace walls for religious reasons.


The mosque was once also known as the Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque. Located in Kabatas, Istanbul, its architecture was finalised by a famous Turkish Armenian designer named Garabet Balyan. The facade of the mosque also includes the stunning twin minarets and giant stone arches. 


Travellers from across the globe visit the mosque to admire its ornamental walls with gold calligraphy in Arabic. It is strategically located on the shoreline of Bosphorus strait and offers amazing views of the ships gliding in the waters.


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Architecture & Design of Dolmabahce Mosque

The Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque, now called the Dolmabahce Mosque, is located on the shores of Bosphorus in Kabatas, Istanbul. It was designed by the architect Garabet Balyan, who has Turkish-Armenian origins. The design of the mosque is a subtle combination of Baroque, Ottoman and Rococo styles. Let's dive into the its architecture in detail:

Strategic Location

Located on the coast of the Bosphorus Strait, the mosque offers scenic views of the Marmara Sea. You can almost always notice the sight of ships sailing in the waters. The main prayer hall is covered by a giant dome-shaped structure with designs all over. The mosque has two minarets that stand in symmetry alongside.


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Exterior Craftsmanship

The exterior of the mosque features huge stone arches on the facades. You can also take a look at the huge windows with circular glass mirrors. They've been made in a way to allow maximum sunlight and air into the prayer hall.


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Lavish Interiors

You will find all of the walls inside the prayer hall to be decorated with calligraphy. Most of it depicts the themes of “Mohammad, sallallahu alaihi wasallam” and “Allah, subhanahu wa ta’ala”. There are many kinds of decorations within the mosque, including ornaments made out of gold.


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Plan Your Visit to Dolmabahce Mosque

Essential Information
How to Reach

Location:

Ömer Avni, Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. No:34, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye


Opening Hours:

5:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Timings may differ on the occasion of Eid al-Adha or Arafa of Adha)


Best Time to Visit:

Most of the tourists prefer visiting the Dolmabahce Mosque between June to August. It's the summer season in Istanbul and the temperatures range between 19 to 36 degrees. For travelers who prefer smaller crowds, visiting the mosque between October and November or March and April is recommended.


During this time, the town witnesses low tourist footfall. You will observe average temperatures ranging somewhere between 8 to 16 degrees.


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There are many ways in which you can reach the mosque:

  • By Ferry: If you're in Uskudar, you can take a ferry to Besiktas. From there, the mosque is just a 10-minute walk away. In case you're headed from Anatolian region, it's recommended to take a ferry to Besiktas or Kabatas from Kadikoy or Uskudar.
  • By Cable Car: You can also board a cable car from Taksim Square to Kabatas, which is available every 10 minutes. From Kabatas, the mosque is a 5-minute walk away. 
  • By Cab: If you're somewhere around the city centre, you can take a short cab ride from Taksim Square. It will take you roughly 5 minutes to reach. 
  • By Metro: If you prefer travelling via Metro, we'd suggest opting for the M4 and M5 lines which lead to the mosque.
  • By Bus: There are many buses that lead to the mosque via different routes. You can choose to board the buses numbered 11Y, 11 US, 139A, 320A, or 16A.

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FAQ's

Who designed Dolmabahce Mosque?

The Dolmabahce Mosque, located in Turkey, was designed by Garabet Balyan. He was a popular architect in his time and had Turkish-Armenian origins. The mosque is popular across the world for its architecture which is a blend of Ottoman, Rococo, and Baroque styles.

When was Dolmabahce Mosque built?

The mosque was built in 1853, on the orders of Queen Mother Bezmialem Valide Sultan. It was designed by a popular architect named Garabet Balyan and his sons. After the demise of his mother, Sultan Abdulmecid overlooked the completion of its construction in 1855.

What are the timings of Dolmabahce Mosque?

Dolmabahce Mosque in Istanbul is open to the general public from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The timings may change on the occasion of Eid al-Adha or Arafa of Adha. It is known to be one of the most iconic religious landmarks in Istanbul.

Where is Dolmabahce Mosque located?

Dolmabahce Mosque in Istanbul is located on the coast of Bosphorus strait, in Beyoglu district, Istanbul. You'll find that it's located very close to the Dolmabahce Palace. This is because originally the mosque was planned to be built within the complex of the palace. But, later it was decided otherwise owing to its religious importance. It was designed by the same architect as the Palace.

Is Dolmabahce Mosque wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the mosque is accessible via wheelchairs. Specially-abled travellers who wish to explore its incredible architecture can opt for a wheelchair and enjoy a free entry.

Is photography allowed at Dolmabahce Mosque?

Yes, photography is allowed at the mosque. But, since it's a holy place of worship, there are a few things to note when clicking pictures:

  • Remember to remove any footwear before entering the mosque
  • Females have to cover their heads and shoulders with some cloth
  • The clothing (male or female) must not be shorter than knee length

Is there a dress code for visiting Dolmabahce Mosque?

Yes, travellers must follow a set of rules that apply for clothing when it comes to visiting the mosque:

  • Men: They should not wear anything that is shorter than knee length.
  • Women: All females must cover their heads and shoulders with a layer of clothing. They must also avoid wearing anything shorter than knee length.

Is it worth visiting Dolmabahce Mosque?

Yes, Dolmabahce Mosque in Istanbul is one of the best places to visit on your trip to Istanbul. You will get a chance to see the remarkable architecture of the mosque which was built in the 19th century.

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