{"id":12761,"date":"2025-02-04T15:29:34","date_gmt":"2025-02-04T15:29:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/?post_type=listivo_listing&#038;p=12761"},"modified":"2025-07-07T15:20:03","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T15:20:03","slug":"eyup-sultan-mosque","status":"publish","type":"listivo_listing","link":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/places-in-turkey\/eyup-sultan-mosque\/","title":{"rendered":"Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque stands just outside Istanbul\u2019s old city walls, overlooking the Golden Horn. It is more than a majestic Ottoman structure \u2013 it is a focal point of Islamic devotion and Ottoman history. Built by Sultan Mehmed II in 1458 to commemorate the burial place of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (Ey\u00fcp Sultan) \u2013 the standard-bearer of the Prophet Muhammad \u2013 the complex has been rebuilt and expanded over the centuries. The mosque\u2019s heart is the tomb chamber where Abu Ayyub is said to lie, a site of pilgrimage and veneration. Today\u2019s mosque dates from 1800, but its roots stretch back to the very conquest of Constantinople. The atmosphere in its courtyard \u2013 shaded by ancient plane trees and circled by Ottoman Baroque fountains and gates \u2013 conveys a sense of timeless reverence.<\/p>\n<p>The two soaring minarets and central dome of Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque dominate the skyline at the Golden Horn\u2019s edge. The first impression is of a tranquil sanctuary set apart from the bustle of Emin\u00f6n\u00fc or Sultanahmet. Its exterior fa\u00e7ade and porticos are framed by Old-World plane trees, while inside the prayer hall a vast central dome rests on semi-domes, reflecting the influence of classical Ottoman design. Travelers often pause here, as one writer noted, to admire the mosque\u2019s \u201cstunning architecture and intricate details\u201d and to soak in the spiritual ambience.<\/p>\n<h2>More Than a Mosque: A Spiritual Heart of Istanbul<\/h2>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is not merely an architectural landmark; it is a living shrine. To Muslims worldwide, this is hallowed ground because it houses the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari \u2013 a companion of the Prophet Muhammad who fell during an early Muslim siege of Constantinople in 673\u2013674 AD. After the city\u2019s final conquest in 1453, Mehmed the Conqueror followed a dream-revealed tradition and located Abu Ayyub\u2019s grave near the city walls. He then built a memorial tomb (t\u00fcrbe) and a mosque over the site. The annual flow of pilgrims \u2013 who pray and tie prayer beads on the courtyard\u2019s venerable plane tree \u2013 underlines its continued spiritual importance. For Ottoman sultans, being girded with the Sword of Osman in Ey\u00fcp\u2019s shadow symbolized divine legitimization of their rule, embedding the mosque deeply in empire rituals.<\/p>\n<p>As a history and culture guide, our aim is to explore every facet of Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque: from its founding legend and Ottoman ceremonies to the minutiae of its tilework and architecture, and even practical tips for a modern visitor. We will trace the life of Abu Ayyub, chronicle the mosque\u2019s rise, fall and rebirth, and explain the design of its courtyards, domes and tomb. We will also dive into the atmosphere of the adjacent cemetery and district \u2013 the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill, local bazaars and cuisines \u2013 giving you a complete picture of the Ey\u00fcp experience.<\/p>\n<h2>The Story of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (Ey\u00fcp Sultan)<\/h2>\n<h3>Who Was Abu Ayyub al-Ansari?<\/h3>\n<p>Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (Arabic: Khalid ibn Zayd ibn Kulayb) was a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, born into the Ansari tribe of Medina. He earned renown as the Prophet\u2019s standard-bearer in battle. Unlike many who remained in Arabia, Abu Ayyub traveled with Muslim armies into Byzantine territories. In 672\u2013674 AD, during the first Muslim siege of Constantinople under Caliph Mu\u2019awiya I, Abu Ayyub fell wounded and died near the city walls. According to legend, he had prayed to die close to Constantinople so that the Muslim army would \u201cfight around his grave\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque\u2019s very name (\u201cEy\u00fcp\u201d being the Turkish form of \u201cAyyub\u201d) honors this tradition. According to medieval accounts, Caliph Mu\u2019awiya did indeed assign guards to Abu Ayyub\u2019s grave. Over the centuries, the site outside the city\u2019s walls took on sanctity as \u201cAllah\u2019s Friend\u2019s Tomb\u201d (Ebu Ey\u00fcp\u2019\u00fcn Kabri).<\/p>\n<h3>The First Siege and Abu Ayyub\u2019s Martyrdom<\/h3>\n<p>The story of Abu Ayyub\u2019s death at Constantinople provides crucial context. Muslim sources say the Umayyad army camped near the city for two sieges (around 674 AD) but withdrew due to a plague among the troops. Abu Ayyub was mortally wounded before the withdrawal and died in his tent. His companions buried him quickly outside the walls on what is now the Ey\u00fcp site.<\/p>\n<p>Centuries later, after Mehmet II conquered Istanbul in 1453, his mentor (the learned Sheikh Ak\u015femseddin) reportedly dreamed that Abu Ayyub\u2019s tomb lay just outside the city gate. The sultan took this as a divine cue: in 1458 he personally oversaw the excavation and confirmed the tomb. This \u201cmiraculous discovery\u201d validated the site. Mehmet then commissioned a simple tomb and a masjid (mosque) on the spot. Thus, the first buildings over Ey\u00fcp Sultan\u2019s grave date to just five years after conquest.<\/p>\n<h3>Veneration of a Martyr<\/h3>\n<p>Abu Ayyub al-Ansari is remembered as a noble martyr (shahid) in Islamic tradition. Even before the Ottoman era, some travelers mention a tomb here revered by devout Muslims. By the time of Mehmet II, the Ottomans seized on Abu Ayyub\u2019s legacy. They proclaimed him the \u201cprotecting saint\u201d of the new capital. Some reports say relics associated with him \u2013 such as strands of Prophet Muhammad\u2019s hair, or a stone with the Prophet\u2019s footprint \u2013 were enshrined in the mausoleum. Whether fact or legend, these relics made the t\u00fcrbe a must-visit shrine.<\/p>\n<p>Starting with Mehmet II, Ottoman sultans brought coronation ceremonies to Ey\u00fcp to underscore their connection to the Prophet\u2019s closest circle. The presence of Abu Ayyub\u2019s tomb effectively sanctified the new dynasty. In the following centuries, every new sultan had himself girded with the Sword of Osman under the plane tree in Ey\u00fcp\u2019s courtyard (see below) and thereafter visited the tomb. This religious and dynastic tradition fused spiritual prestige with statecraft. As historians note: even into the 20th century, when Mehmed V was girded in 1909, non-Muslims were invited to witness the ritual as \u201ca testimonial to the empire\u2019s continuity\u201d.<\/p>\n<h3>The Dream and the Groundbreaking<\/h3>\n<p>When Mehmet II received word of the dream, Ottoman chronicles say he rose at dawn and ordered an immediate search near the old ramparts. Workers quickly uncovered remains and an inscribed relic chest. Over several days, many signs \u2013 including Arabic calligraphy confirming its sanctity \u2013 convinced Mehmet he had found Abu Ayyub\u2019s grave. In his memoirs, Ak\u015femseddin claimed divine guidance led the way.<\/p>\n<p>With the location confirmed, Mehmet II ordered the construction of a tile-surmounted t\u00fcrbe directly over the burial spot. He also built a simple Friday mosque adjacent to it. These first buildings were relatively modest \u2013 a small stone mosque and tomb chamber \u2013 but they enshrined the place permanently. Within a few years (by 1462) the site became a pilgrimage destination. The ruling sultan himself would visit every year, consulting the guardian of the tomb on matters of state.<\/p>\n<h2>From Conquest to Empire: A Detailed History of Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque<\/h2>\n<h3>The First Mosque After Conquest: A Symbol of a New Era (1458)<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Commission by Sultan Mehmed II.<\/strong> After Ey\u00fcp Sultan\u2019s tomb was confirmed, Sultan Mehmet II (Fatih) inaugurated the sacred precinct. By 1458 he had laid the foundations for a proper k\u00fclliye (religious complex) on the site. This initial complex consisted of a small Friday mosque built directly in front of the tomb, together with supporting buildings. Early records mention a medrese (Islamic school), a dar\u00fc\u015f\u015fifa (hospital), an imaret (soup kitchen for the poor) and a hamam (bathhouse) as part of the foundation endowment. In Ottoman Istanbul, constructing such a charitable complex was a common royal practice. The Ey\u00fcp k\u00fclliye thus linked Mehmet II\u2019s conquest with his Islamic mission.<\/p>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque of 1458 was reportedly the first mosque Mehmet built in Constantinople. It emphasized continuity: he modeled it on Mosques of Rumeli Hisar or Edirne, using stone, domes and a portico. The original tomb chamber (built in 1458) was covered with turquoise and green tiles \u2013 the earliest instance of Iznik-style tile art in the empire. (Fragments of those 15th-century tiles have been found in the t\u00fcrbe\u2019s walls.)<\/p>\n<p>The new foundation was deliberately austere at first, since Mehmet wanted to focus resources on Topkap\u0131 and other projects. Still, the Ey\u00fcp complex served both religious and social needs. For example, the imaret and hamam helped integrate the local population \u2013 many were refugees from the wars \u2013 by providing food and healing. All building works were completed in phases during Mehmet\u2019s reign.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Original K\u00fclliye: Mosque, Madrasa, Hammam, Imaret.<\/strong> Contemporary accounts and later scholarship confirm that Ey\u00fcp was once more than just a mosque. It was the center of a full k\u00fclliye. The key components included the Al-Fatih Hamam (bathhouse), still extant albeit altered, and the Al-Fatih Imaret (soup kitchen), which operates as a charitable kitchen today. The medrese (theological school) unfortunately did not survive later reconstructions. In Ottoman custom, the k\u00fclliye also encompassed a market and caravansarai at one time, sustaining the mosque financially.<\/p>\n<p>In sum, the 15th-century Ey\u00fcp complex evoked a small Islamic city in miniature, grafted onto the old Byzantine ramparts. Its very existence proclaimed the Ottoman claim to the city as an Islamic capital.<\/p>\n<h3>The Sword of Osman: The Ottoman Coronation Ceremony<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Why Ey\u00fcp? Spiritual Legitimacy.<\/strong> From the first Ottoman princes, succession was as much a spiritual ceremony as a dynastic one. By invoking the sword of Osman (Osman Gazi, the empire\u2019s founder) and the blessing of a Companion of the Prophet, each new sultan drew divine approval. Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque fit this purpose perfectly. Ottoman chroniclers explain that the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari provided religious legitimacy to a new reign. As one academic summary notes, \u201cwhoever the heir, had his position cemented by being girded with the sword of Osman\u201d at Ey\u00fcp.<\/p>\n<p>Shortly after ascending the throne, the heir was summoned from Anatolia or Rumelia. He traveled to Istanbul \u2013 sometimes by ceremonial boat along the Golden Horn \u2013 and landed at the Ey\u00fcp pier. There he dismounted and proceeded on horseback toward the mosque. The parade route, lined with guards and dignitaries, passed by the Ey\u00fcp cemetery (itself lined with tombs of previous officials) on the way to the mosque entrance.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Girding Ceremony.<\/strong> At the inner courtyard of Ey\u00fcp, in a platform under a great plane tree (the so-called \u201cEy\u00fcp tree\u201d), the sultan was ceremonially girded. The famous Sword of Osman \u2013 a curved blade said to have belonged to Osman I \u2013 was placed around his waist by the Sheikh of the Mevlevi order from Konya. In some cases, other symbolic swords (attributed to Caliph Umar or to Sultan Selim I) were presented as well. Eyewitnesses of later centuries recall the Sultan being wrapped in a ceremony of Qur\u2019anic recital and prayer. One report from 19th-century Istanbul notes that the young Sultan stood beneath \u201can ancient plane tree\u201d on a raised platform as three swords were touched to his waist.<\/p>\n<p>The context was highly charged: the ruler accepted his duty in sight of the Prophet\u2019s companion\u2019s shrine and amid Qur\u2019anic blessings. Only after this did the sultan enter the mosque to pray as governor of the city. The new monarch then mounted the city gate arch (Edirnekap\u0131) to lead a procession into Istanbul and finally to Topkap\u0131 Palace.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Famous Sultans Crowned Here.<\/strong> This ceremonial tradition is first attested in the 16th century, but it became official by 1583 under Murad III. Most later sultans from Suleiman the Magnificent to Ahmed I used Ey\u00fcp for their girding. For Suleiman, it tied him to the sacred lineage of Rome\u2019s conquerors and Arabia\u2019s martyrs. The practice continued until the very end of the Empire: Mehmed VI, the last Ottoman sultan in 1918, was still filmed having the sword fastened around him under the old tree.<\/p>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp\u2019s role in coronations gave it an almost semi-royal aura. Some visitors in the early 20th century noted that large paintings of sultans in grand procession lined the mosque walls (although these were later removed by the Republic). In short, any Ottoman visitor knew that to ascend the throne \u201cone first had to bow at the tomb of Ey\u00fcp Sultan.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3>Destruction and Rebirth: The 18th-Century Reconstruction<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Earthquake of 1766 and Damage.<\/strong> Although the Fatih-era foundations survived centuries, nature and time took their toll. On May 22, 1766, a major earthquake struck Istanbul, damaging many domes and walls of Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque. By then the complex was in disrepair; some interior murals had faded, and the minarets had cracked. Visiting authors in the late 18th century describe the mosque as partly ruinous.<\/p>\n<p>Under Sultan Selim III (r. 1789\u20131807), a decision was made to tear down much of the old mosque and rebuild. Selim III, influenced by Baroque tastes, commissioned a new design rather than restore the deteriorating 15th-century building. Historical records indicate that in 1798\u20131800 the structure (apart from the already-repaired minarets) was demolished and replaced with a new Baroque-style mosque. This ambitious project was unusually rapid \u2013 completed by 1800 \u2013 given the building\u2019s size.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Rebuilding in Ottoman Baroque Style (1800).<\/strong> The new structure preserved the old footprint but introduced contemporary ornament. Its architect (likely a court master builder) adopted the late Ottoman Baroque style seen in other turn-of-the-century Istanbul mosques. The scheme featured an octagonal central dome with cascading half-domes, elaborate portals with volutes, and interior columns with Corinthian-like capitals. Blue-and-white Iznik tiles salvaged from older periods were reused alongside new tile panels (see below).<\/p>\n<p>The courtyard was also reshaped: a new \u015fad\u0131rvan (ablution fountain) of cream marble was installed, and the old sultan\u2019s private portico (topkap\u0131) was demolished. The grand plane tree platform \u2013 though replanted \u2013 was retained because of its symbolic value. When complete, Selim III\u2019s mosque gleamed with fresh marble and gilding. The building was consecrated in 1800 with the same devotion as its predecessor. Even two decades later, Sultan Mahmud II had to rebuild one minaret knocked down by lightning in 1823, but otherwise the Selim III structure has stood to modern times.<\/p>\n<h3>The Mosque in the Modern Turkish Republic<\/h3>\n<p>After the Empire ended, Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque passed to the new Republic of Turkey. It remained an active congregation and a heritage site. In the 1940s and again in the 2000s, restoration projects preserved its domes, tiles and courtyard. Today the complex is managed by the Ey\u00fcp municipality; the t\u00fcrbe and mosque are well-maintained and free to visit. The tomb and sacred relics continue to draw pilgrims, while tourists appreciate its beauty. In short, Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque bridges Ottoman history and contemporary Istanbul as a living monument.<\/p>\n<h2>An Architectural Masterpiece: Ottoman Baroque Design<\/h2>\n<p>Although rebuilt in 1800, Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque stays true to classical Ottoman form, with a Baroque twist. The layout, light and decorative elements reflect Sinan\u2019s influence (the celebrated 16th-century architect), yet the ornamentation shows late-18th-century style. In plain terms, it is one of Istanbul\u2019s last great Baroque mosques.<\/p>\n<h3>The Grand Courtyard (Avlu): First Impressions<\/h3>\n<p>Approaching from the city, visitors first enter a broad outer courtyard. This space was expanded in the Selim III era. Its grey marble floor is dotted with tall plane trees that give shade, testaments to the site\u2019s age. Along three sides runs a simple arcade of pointed arches on square pillars. A cream-colored \u015fad\u0131rvan (ablution fountain) stands at the far end, with a tiled canopy and brass taps for ritual washing.<\/p>\n<p>On the fourth side is the mosque\u2019s imposing portal: a double-door portal topped by a sculpted pediment. The outer walls bear large calligraphic panels in black-on-white, quoting Qur\u2019anic passages. These letters are framed by baroque arabesques \u2013 a reminder of the Selim III era\u2019s ornate tastes.<\/p>\n<p>From this outer courtyard one steps into an inner, rectangular forecourt. Here stands the famous plane tree. It grows on a raised marble platform decorated with small corner fountains. According to one guide, the \u201cold plane tree\u201d on that platform is \u201cdecorated with marble fountains at its corners\u201d. (Legend says the original tree was planted from a cutting of a sacred tree in Medina.) The marble steps around the platform were once the ceremonial stage for coronations. Today visitors tie coloured ribbons and beads to the tree\u2019s branches in hope or thanks.<\/p>\n<p>The entrance gates to the inner courtyard feature filigreed iron-work and framed inscriptions from the Qur\u2019an \u2013 reminders that one is passing from the profane world into a holy precinct.<\/p>\n<h3>The Ablution Fountain (\u015ead\u0131rvan)<\/h3>\n<p>The central fountain in the outer courtyard is a fine piece of craftsmanship. Its basin is octagonal white marble and is sheltered by a small dome on eight columns. Each column has an Ionic-style capital \u2013 unusual for an Ottoman mosque, reflecting the Baroque period\u2019s taste for classical motifs. The fountain basin has brass taps on each face. This is where worshippers perform wudu (washing) before prayer.<\/p>\n<p>Adding life to the space, the fountain\u2019s water softly echoes through the courtyard. (According to one tourist account, it is \u201csometimes used by mothers to wash children\u2019s feet\u201d as a practical measure, a small daily ritual of purity.) Together with the plane trees, the fountain makes the courtyard a calm garden, setting a tranquil tone before entering the mosque proper.<\/p>\n<h3>The Prayer Hall: A Study in Light and Space<\/h3>\n<p>Stepping through the tiled marble portal, the visitor enters the carpeted prayer hall (harim). The effect is of soaring space and gentle light. A massive central dome (about 15\u201318 metres across) is ringed by smaller half-domes, in a classic \u201coctagonal baldaquin\u201d pattern where the dome\u2019s weight is borne by eight pillars. This form was popularized by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century and is repeated here faithfully.<\/p>\n<p>White-and-beige is the basic color scheme, but the eye is drawn upward to the dome\u2019s Arabic inscriptions (in gold) on a dark band, and to abundant brass and gilt chandeliers. Natural light pours in through arched windows. The wall facing Mecca (qibla wall) is gentle curves in the arch, with a marble mihrab set into it. The mihrab niche, with its shell-like scalloped top, bears dark blue Kufic script saying \u201cAllah\u201d and green tile borders.<\/p>\n<p>The columns inside the hall have plain shafts rising to capitals that vaguely recall Ionic order \u2013 another late Ottoman baroque touch. An elevated wooden minbar (pulpit) stands to the right of the mihrab; it is carved with elegant floral arabesques. Opposite, on the left, the m\u00fcezzin mahfili (muezzin\u2019s platform) is a small gallery. Both are painted wood with gilded details.<\/p>\n<p>One of the most striking decorative features inside is the abundant use of \u0130znik tiles. Many panels of floral and geometric tile line the lower walls around the prayer space. Some have deep \u201cArmenian bole\u201d red backgrounds dating to about 1580; others are later blue-and-white or polychrome panels from the 18th century. In fact, the mix of tile types in Ey\u00fcp reflects its complicated rebuild: some old tiles were reused and new ones added during Selim III\u2019s era.<\/p>\n<h3>The Twin Minarets: Beacons on the Golden Horn<\/h3>\n<p>Flanking the mosque\u2019s fa\u00e7ade to the front are two tall minarets. Each rises in three octagonal fluted shafts, separated by rings of balconies. The stone minarets were actually part of the original 15th-century plan, but they were given Baroque decorations such as scrolling moldings by Ahmed III in the 18th century. One of the minarets was damaged by lightning in the 19th century and had to be rebuilt \u2013 hence the slight stylistic difference of the right-hand tower. Today, both stand as heralds on the Golden Horn: at sunset or dawn their slender forms are silhouetted against the sky, calling the faithful to prayer.<\/p>\n<h3>Comparing Old and New: What Changed?<\/h3>\n<p>Though rebuilt, Selim III\u2019s mosque preserved the proportions of the original Fatih mosque. The prayer hall footprint is the same size, and the front courtyard still aligns with the city\u2019s ancient street (the C\u00fclus Yolu) leading to the Golden Horn. The key changes were mainly ornamental: the decoration became Baroque (curving arches, Arabesque carving, gilding) rather than the simpler early Ottoman style. Also, while the 1458 mosque had a smaller dome and fewer windows, the 1800 rebuilding added more clerestory windows to increase light. In summary, the current Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is effectively a classical Ottoman dome and arch scheme dressed in 18th-century fashion.<\/p>\n<h2>The Sacred Heart: The Tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari<\/h2>\n<p>At the core of Ey\u00fcp\u2019s sanctity is the tomb chamber (t\u00fcrbe) of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, situated just inside the mosque\u2019s forecourt. This is the chamber that pilgrims most seek out, and it has a distinct atmosphere of reverence.<\/p>\n<h3>Architecture and Atmosphere of the T\u00fcrbe<\/h3>\n<p>The t\u00fcrbe stands as a small octagonal rotunda attached to the mosque\u2019s inner courtyard. Externally, it is topped by a dome with a gilded finial. Inside, visitors remove their shoes and enter quietly through a gilded lattice door. The chamber is modestly lit, the floor carpeted for prayer. At center lies the sarcophagus of Abu Ayyub (though the actual grave is beneath it). The coffin-shaped tomb is wrapped in a green shawl and encased behind a tall silver-plated filigree grille carved with Qur\u2019anic verses. A golden chandelier above casts a gentle glow over the scene.<\/p>\n<p>The air inside feels hushed and cool. Men and women often kneel at the grate edge, attempting to touch it or slip in slips of paper with prayers. Guards and imams patrol respectfully. The smell of wax and wood is faint from candles and furniture. Many describe it as \u201csomber\u201d and \u201cpeaceful\u201d \u2013 far more spiritual than the outer parts of the mosque, which can bustle with tourists.<\/p>\n<h3>The Tiled Panels of the Tomb<\/h3>\n<p>One of the t\u00fcrbe\u2019s most remarkable aspects is its tile decoration. The walls (and even parts of the entrance corridor) are covered floor to ceiling in Iznik tiles from different eras. A walking tour commentary explains that during the 1798-99 rebuild, Ottoman authorities salvaged many tile panels from earlier buildings and rearranged them here. Thus one sees a bewildering mix: on one wall, the famous \u201cArmenian bole\u201d tiles with an oxblood red background and blue-green lotus motifs; on another, classic blue-and-white saz-pattern tiles dated to the early 1600s.<\/p>\n<p>Every tile panel is meticulously aligned, forming large pictorial inscriptions and arabesque motifs. The effect is that of a mosaic tapestry surrounding the tomb. Visitors often remark on the vibrancy of the blue and red tiles under the dim light, a vivid color against the silver and wood.<\/p>\n<h3>The \u201cFootprint of the Prophet\u201d and Sacred Relics<\/h3>\n<p>Perhaps the single most awe-inspiring object in the t\u00fcrbe is a carved stone disk set upright in a silver frame \u2013 the so-called \u201cFootprint of the Prophet.\u201d It is a carved impression of a human foot, encrusted with gems. Tradition holds that this is the Prophet Muhammad\u2019s footprint, preserved in the stone on the day he rode a heavenly steed (isr\u0101\u2019) to Jerusalem. The Hosafev temple also attributes it as \u201cfootprint of prophet muhammad al-ansari\u201d in Spanish. According to insiders, it was a gift from the Ottoman sultan to the shrine and has been paraded in processions in past centuries.<\/p>\n<p>To one side is a small niche labeled \u201cM\u00eez\u00e2b-\u0131 Saadet\u201d \u2013 the spout from the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem believed to catch the Prophet\u2019s rainwater. Other relics include a lock of hair said to be from Muhammad\u2019s beard, encased in an ornate reliquary. These items are not permanent, however; they are sometimes loaned to museums or moved to the nearby Sacred Relics Pavilion. Still, having even copies of them on display heightens the feeling that one stands in a direct line to the Prophet himself.<\/p>\n<h3>The Silver Grille and Pilgrimage Experience<\/h3>\n<p>All around the sarcophagus is a delicate silver grille, chest-high, through which one cannot see the coffin itself. Pilgrims often press their foreheads to the cold metal. Above the grille is an arched wooden window (muvakkithane) through which specially invited guests could view the interior during state ceremonies. Today it remains closed and ornate.<\/p>\n<p>For many believers, a visit to Ey\u00fcp is akin to a pilgrimage. They come to touch the grille, recite prayers, and seek barakah (blessing). The mosque supplies prayer beads for tying on the plane tree; others light candles outside. Guards quietly manage the crowds, separating men and women. Photographs are not allowed inside the tomb chamber, out of respect (unlike some other mosques).<\/p>\n<p>In all, the t\u00fcrbe radiates a sense of history and sanctity. One commentator writes that the chamber is \u201cthe holiest ground in all of Istanbul\u201d (after Mecca and Medina). Even non-Muslim visitors often report feeling a hush fall over the court of the t\u00fcrbe, as solemn as any cathedral sanctuary.<\/p>\n<h2>The City of the Dead: Exploring the Historic Ey\u00fcp Cemetery<\/h2>\n<p>Lying just west and north of the mosque\u2019s courtyard, on the slope up to Pierre Loti Hill, is a vast graveyard \u2013 Ey\u00fcp Sultan Cemetery. For Ottomans of all ranks, being buried here was a great honor: tradition held that proximity to Abu Ayyub al-Ansari\u2019s tomb would ensure a blessing in the afterlife. Over time, many sultans, viziers, and luminaries chose Ey\u00fcp as their final resting place.<\/p>\n<h3>A Desired Final Resting Place<\/h3>\n<p>Today\u2019s cemetery consists of uneven terraced lanes crisscrossing steep hillsides, filled with row upon row of Ottoman-era gravestones. Black basalt headstones with carved turbans stand side by side with gray stones topped by fezzes or floral finials. As one history of Istanbul notes, Ey\u00fcp Cemetery \u201chosts graves of Ottoman sultans and court members, grand viziers, high-ranking religious authorities, civil servants and military commanders as well as intellectuals, scientists, artists and poets\u201d. In short, it is one of the city\u2019s most prestigious necropolises.<\/p>\n<p>Walking its narrow alleys, visitors can peer at names and epitaphs in elegant calligraphy. Green-painted turbans on male graves usually denote an imam or holy man, while brown or multi-layered turbans marked statesmen or grandees (before the fez replaced the turban in 1829). Female graves rarely show headgear; instead they often bear ornamental finials or flower baskets. In fact, carved roses or tulips on women\u2019s tombs symbolized beauty and grace, and sometimes the number of flowers indicated the number of children a mother had.<\/p>\n<h3>Decoding Ottoman Gravestone Symbolism<\/h3>\n<p>A visitor\u2019s eye is often drawn to the sculpted \u201chats\u201d atop each headstone, a uniquely Ottoman art. These granite or marble headdresses convey status. As one guide to tomb iconography explains, a \u201csarikli\u201d (turban) indicates a religious scholar or high official, a \u201cfesli\u201d (fez) a civil servant or bureaucrat, and a \u201csikke\u201d (Mevlevi cap) a Sufi mystic. Military officers often have carved swords or battle scenes on their stones, while doctors show candlesticks, and judges hold a book and pen. At the base, epitaphs in poetic Turkish often summarize the life of the deceased.<\/p>\n<p>For example, look for the tomb of Grand Vizier <strong>Sokollu Mehmed Pa\u015fa<\/strong> (d. 1579). His tall headstone, with an elaborate multi-turban carving, lies among other 16th-century statesmen. Nearby stand the graves of Siyavu\u015f Pa\u015fa and Lala Mustafa Pa\u015fa (the conqueror of Cyprus). A short stroll away lies the marble t\u00fcrbe of <em>Mihri\u015fah Valide Sultan<\/em> (mother of Selim III, d. 1805), in Ottoman Baroque style, and that of <em>Sultana Adile<\/em> and <em>Mihri\u015fah<\/em>, (royal ladies who contributed to the neighborhood). Even Sultan <em>Mehmed V<\/em>\u2019s tomb (designed by architect Kemaleddin Bey in 1918) is here.<\/p>\n<p>Each tomb has its own story, but what unites them is a quest: the chance to rest near Abu Ayyub\u2019s sacred grave. One old saying went: <em>\u201cWhoever dies anywhere else is unlucky.\u201d<\/em> Modern-day Turks still arrange to be buried here, and even in revivalist times hundreds of grave plots were opened around Ey\u00fcp. For a visitor, the cemetery is like an open-air museum of Ottoman genealogy.<\/p>\n<h2>A Complete Visitor\u2019s Guide to Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque<\/h2>\n<h3>Planning Your Visit: Best Times and Days<\/h3>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque draws crowds at many times of year. To enjoy it more quietly, try visiting on a weekday morning. According to guidebooks, <strong>spring (April\u2013June)<\/strong> and <strong>autumn (September\u2013November)<\/strong> offer the most pleasant weather for strolling the hill, while <strong>summer months<\/strong> can be hot and attract both local Istanbulites and foreign tourists. Winter and rainy days see fewer visitors, but cold days can limit exploring the hilltop.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Crowds and Prayer Hours.<\/strong> The site is busiest on Fridays (the main Muslim prayer day), during Ramadan evenings, and on Turkish holidays. One travel blog bluntly warns: <em>\u201cDon\u2019t go on 1st May [Labor Day]\u2026or any Turkish national holiday, or even on a Sunday,\u201d<\/em> as locals flood the hill for leisure. Indeed, on national holidays and summer weekends Pierre Loti Cafe and Ey\u00fcp\u2019s stairs fill up. If you prefer solitude, aim for a weekday. Also keep in mind the mosque closes to tourists during the five daily prayers, especially the Friday noon prayer. A practical tip: the doors are typically closed about <strong>30 minutes before each prayer ends<\/strong>. Thus check local prayer timetables (e.g. on the Ey\u00fcp municipality website) to avoid being locked out.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Visiting During Ramadan.<\/strong> Ramazan brings a special atmosphere. The courtyard may have long lines after sunset for iftar (breaking fast), and night prayers can draw extra worshippers. For many, the illumination of the mosque by lamps and the communal spirit is memorable. However, tourists should plan early or late if visiting at that time, as access becomes more limited.<\/p>\n<h3>How to Get to Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque<\/h3>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan sits on Istanbul\u2019s European shore of the Golden Horn. There are multiple ways to reach it:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>By Ferry (Golden Horn Line):<\/strong> From the Emin\u00f6n\u00fc docks (near the Spice Bazaar), take the Golden Horn ferry (Hali\u00e7 line) north to <em>Ey\u00fcp<\/em> pier. The boat ride itself is scenic, tracing the Horn beneath Galata. From Ey\u00fcp pier it\u2019s about a 10\u201315 minute walk up the hill and through lanes to the mosque area. (Some ferries continue on to Alibeyk\u00f6y \u2013 be sure to disembark at Ey\u00fcp.)<\/li>\n<li><strong>By Tram:<\/strong> The new T5 tram line connects Emin\u00f6n\u00fc to Alibeyk\u00f6y. Two stations \u2013 <em>Ey\u00fcp Sultan<\/em> (just below the mosque) and <em>Piyerloti Tepesi<\/em> (for Pierre Loti Hill) \u2013 serve the area. From the Ey\u00fcp stop it\u2019s a short uphill walk (or steep climb) to the mosque door.<\/li>\n<li><strong>By Bus\/Minibus:<\/strong> Dozens of buses run from central Istanbul. Popular routes start at Emin\u00f6n\u00fc (No. 99 in old numbering, now 99H or 99E) or from Taksim (\u0130stiklal) through Karak\u00f6y. Look for buses labeled <em>Ey\u00fcp<\/em>, <em>Pierre Loti<\/em>, or <em>Alibeyk\u00f6y<\/em>. The historic Balat-Pier Loti bus (#36 or similar) is also an option. Ask locals if unsure, as many bus lines converge on Ey\u00fcp in the evening.<\/li>\n<li><strong>By Taxi\/Rideshare:<\/strong> A taxi from Sultanahmet or Taksim costs around 80\u2013100\u20ba (depending on traffic) and is straightforward. Tell the driver \u201cEy\u00fcp Sultan Camii\u201d. Note that traffic can be heavy along the shore road in rush hour.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cable Car (Teleferik) to Pierre Loti:<\/strong> If you want to combine the mosque visit with a trip up the hill, take the teleferik. The lower station is beside the Ey\u00fcp Cemetery at the base of the hill (just past the mosque). A short three-minute gondola ride takes you to the Pierre Loti Cafe plateau. (Alternatively, one can climb the stone steps to the top in 15\u201320 minutes through the cemetery, as many locals do.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As one guide notes, Ey\u00fcp is easy to reach: \u201cFerries from Emin\u00f6n\u00fc, Karak\u00f6y or \u00dcsk\u00fcdar bring visitors directly to Ey\u00fcp\u201d, and the tram or cable car provide alternatives. The site\u2019s municipality also runs shuttles on special occasions. The bottom line: it\u2019s well-linked to the rest of Istanbul.<\/p>\n<h3>Essential Etiquette for Tourists: Visiting with Respect<\/h3>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan is a <strong>working mosque and a sacred site<\/strong>. Visitors should observe conservative etiquette, similar to any major mosque:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Dress Code:<\/strong> As in all Istanbul mosques, modest clothing is required. Women must cover their hair, shoulders and knees (scarves are usually provided at the entrance). Men should wear long pants (no shorts) and avoid sleeveless shirts. Footwear is removed before entering the mosque or t\u00fcrbe rooms. In practice, visitors see worshippers in traditional Turkish attire or conservative Western clothes \u2013 for tourists, simple trousers and a light jacket (for women) are fine, plus a scarf on hand.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Behavior:<\/strong> Keep quiet and respectful. Do not walk in front of people who are praying. It is polite to step aside if someone is kneeling or prostrating. Photography of the outside courtyard and mosque building is allowed, but <strong>no flash or staging<\/strong>. Inside the prayer hall and tomb, photography is normally forbidden (the spirituality demands no distractions). Signs or attendants will indicate the areas where cameras must be off.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gender Sections:<\/strong> During prayers, men and women pray in separate areas (men on the right side and women on the left from the mihrab perspective). Tourists may enter either side outside prayer times, but avoid crossing into worshippers\u2019 lines. Generally, female visitors stand slightly back in the left side, male visitors on the right.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Can Non-Muslims Enter the Mosque?<\/strong> Yes, non-Muslims are welcome in the courtyard and even inside the main prayer hall, provided it is not prayer time. Ey\u00fcp Sultan is less restrictive than some other mosques; many guides note \u201cthe mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times\u201d. The t\u00fcrbe room, however, is usually closed to non-Muslims (due to the relics and the hallowed nature of the tomb). Women in particular may enter the tomb room on Friday afternoons if Muslim authorities permit, but otherwise they should not insist. In practice, respectful tourists (of any faith) can walk through the mosque\u2019s nave on weekdays, quietly admiring the architecture before exiting through the graveyard paths.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shoes:<\/strong> Remove shoes at the racks or shelves provided (usually in the entrance lobby to the mosque). Carry your shoes or leave them neatly; do not point your shoes toward the qibla wall.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Donations:<\/strong> Admission is free, but contributions are welcome. You will see a donation box at the mosque entrance \u2013 giving a small amount to support the mosque\u2019s upkeep is considered polite, though not obligatory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In short, treat Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque as you would any revered cultural heritage site. Dress and act with courtesy. Then you can absorb both its historic grandeur and its still-living spirituality.<\/p>\n<h3>Entrance Fee and Opening Hours<\/h3>\n<p>The Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is <strong>free to enter<\/strong> for visitors. There is no entrance fee; the mosque operates by waqf endowment and public support. Opening and closing times do vary seasonally. As of the latest info, the mosque is generally open daily from early morning until about 20:00\u201322:00 in summer, slightly earlier in winter (closing around 18:00). However, because it must clear out before each prayer, tourists should arrive well before these hours. A good rule: plan to finish your visit at least <strong>30 minutes before the evening azan<\/strong> to be safe. The Ey\u00fcp Municipality or local signage will confirm precise times.<\/p>\n<h2>Beyond the Mosque: Exploring the Ey\u00fcp District &amp; Pierre Loti Hill<\/h2>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is the start of a whole district of interest. Plan an extra hour or two to enjoy the surroundings, from hillside views to historic bazaars.<\/p>\n<h3>The Ey\u00fcp Cable Car (Teleferik): A Ride with a View<\/h3>\n<p>Just beside the cemetery is the Ey\u00fcp-Piyer Loti cable car station (Turkish <em>teleferik<\/em>). For a small fare, you can ride the gondola up through pine trees to the Pierre Loti caf\u00e9 plateau. The ride is short (about 5 minutes) but the view is delightful. You slowly emerge from the green hillside to panoramic vistas of the Golden Horn and the old city. Many locals and tourists take this quick ride for the experience alone. It saves the 15-minute uphill walk. One travel blogger casually notes, \u201cWe knew about the short cable car ride (teleferik) that would carry us to our destination\u201d \u2013 indeed, it is now a convenient part of the Ey\u00fcp outing.<\/p>\n<h3>Pierre Loti Hill: The Best Panoramic View of the Golden Horn<\/h3>\n<p>Once at the top, you arrive at Pierre Loti Hill (Turkish: <em>Pierre Loti Tepesi<\/em>), named after the French writer Pierre Loti (real name Louis Marie-Julien Viaud, 1850\u20131923). A naval officer and novelist enamored with Ottoman culture, Loti spent time in Istanbul in the 1870s. He wrote the novel <em>Aziyade<\/em> (1879) about a romance in Istanbul, and often visited this hill\u2019s original coffee house. According to one account, Loti loved the view of the Golden Horn so much that when he couldn\u2019t visit, he described it in his writings. The present hilltop caf\u00e9 was later named in his honor, and Loti was made an honorary Turkish citizen.<\/p>\n<p>Today, the caf\u00e9\u2019s red-and-white checked tables offer cups of tea or Turkish coffee alongside that view. It is a perfect vantage point for photographs: the Golden Horn below is lined by the silhouette of mosque domes and the Galata Bridge leading to the old city. (Popular sunset times fill the caf\u00e9 with cameras clicking.) One guide praises Pierre Loti Hill as \u201cone of the best places to visit to experience panoramic views of the Istanbul skyline and along the Golden Horn\u201d. After enjoying the view (and perhaps a slice of baklava or ayran), visitors can walk a few more minutes through shaded paths down a side of the hill, winding back toward the Ey\u00fcp district. Keep an eye out for cats \u2013 the hill is famously cat-friendly.<\/p>\n<h3>Ey\u00fcp Toymakers Bazaar and Local Crafts<\/h3>\n<p>Descending from the mosque (to the left of the main entrance) is a narrow historical shopping lane known as <em>Ey\u00fcp Otantik \u00c7ar\u015f\u0131<\/em>. Here, and on the adjacent <em>Balaban Yolu<\/em>, you will find shops selling traditional items. Many stalls offer prayer beads (tesbih) of amber or olive wood, embroidered prayer rugs, and Talavera-painted tiles. Small workshops sell wooden toys \u2013 Ey\u00fcp was once famous for hand-crafted toys, a trade that continues on a small scale. Pastry shops and cafes abound too: stop for a simit (sesame bagel) or Turkish delight. One travel note mentions \u201cthe lively area around it offers historical buildings, shops and cafes\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>For a truly local snack, try <em>kaymak<\/em> (clotted cream) with honey on fresh bread \u2013 many Ey\u00fcp bakers and dairy shops claim to make the best in Istanbul. Savory snacks like lahmacun or k\u00f6fte grills are also easy to find near the mosque. Sitting at a sidewalk caf\u00e9, one can watch pious visitors mix with strolling locals and enjoy the small marketplaces of Ey\u00fcp.<\/p>\n<h2>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque in Culture and Art<\/h2>\n<p>Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque has left traces in art and literature. Ottoman miniatures of Istanbul sometimes include the Ey\u00fcp courtyard, especially in scenes of Sultan coronations or city panoramas. In the 19th century, Western artists and orientalist painters sketched Istanbul scenes including its skyline \u2013 the twin minarets of Ey\u00fcp often appear in background views of the Golden Horn. In travel literature, Ey\u00fcp was depicted by many writers as a mystical site; for example, the French writer Gustave Flaubert reportedly visited in 1850 and described the serene courtyard of Ey\u00fcp in his letters. In modern Turkish literature, Ey\u00fcp\u2019s atmosphere often figures in stories of spiritual seeking or where the old city\u2019s past touches everyday life. (For instance, local novelist Sait Faik mentions Ey\u00fcp in reflections on the city\u2019s memory.)<\/p>\n<p>In contemporary media, the mosque occasionally appears in films or TV series set in old Istanbul. Photographers prize the play of light through its colored tile corridor. And writers on Islamic art point to its extraordinary Iznik tile panels \u2013 some are now exhibited in museums worldwide, a testament to the mosque\u2019s design excellence.<\/p>\n<p>In short, while Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is not as frequently portrayed as Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, it remains a symbol of Istanbul\u2019s sacred heritage. Its image is catalogued in archives and guidebooks as emblematic of Ottoman piety and art.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Q1: What is the most important thing to see at Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe centerpiece is undoubtedly the <em>t\u00fcrbe<\/em> of Ey\u00fcp Sultan (Abu Ayyub al-Ansari). Inside, the silver-encased sarcophagus draws pilgrims\u2019 awe. As one architectural guide notes, \u201cthe sarcophagus is enclosed by a Baroque-style silver screen\u201d, and its surrounding tiles and relics form the focal point. In practice, most visitors enter the tomb chamber first, bow at the grille, and spend time silently praying or meditating there. In the courtyard, the raised marble platform with its plane tree (where sultans were girded with Osman\u2019s sword) is also a poignant sight. Afterward, one should walk through the prayer hall to admire the dome and tilework, which many find unforgettable.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q2: How much time should I allocate for a visit?<\/strong><br \/>\nTo see the mosque and tomb thoroughly, plan at least <strong>1\u20132 hours<\/strong>. Entering the inner court and tomb often takes 15\u201330 minutes if there is a line. The prayer hall and courtyard can be explored in another 15 minutes or so. If you also wish to visit the cemetery lanes, walk up to Pierre Loti Hill, or browse the bazaars, budget <strong>half a day<\/strong>. Many travelers treat Ey\u00fcp as a morning outing, then have lunch at the hilltop caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q3: Is it safe to visit the Ey\u00fcp district?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes, Ey\u00fcp Sultan and its surroundings are generally very safe for tourists. It is a conservative but friendly neighborhood. Thousands of local families visit regularly for worship and leisure, and there has been no special security issue. Normal precautions for any urban area (beware of pickpockets in crowds, keep belongings secure) are always wise, but no special risks have been reported at Ey\u00fcp. The municipality also keeps the mosque and park areas well lit and patrolled. Many guide reviews comment on how \u201ctranquil\u201d and peaceful the mosque environs feel.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q4: Are there restrooms available for the public?<\/strong><br \/>\nAccording to available information, there are <strong>public restrooms in the mosque courtyard area<\/strong>, but they may not be immediately obvious. Many visitors note that restrooms in Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque are somewhat hidden and often near the cemetery entrance or at adjacent restaurants. It\u2019s a good idea to ask the mosque attendants or local shopkeepers. (One travel site mentions that \u201crestroom facilities may be located at a distance from the mosque\u201d without specifying exactly where.) In any case, the complex is large and there will be facilities before you finish your visit.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q5: Is the area accessible for people with disabilities?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe main courtyard and prayer hall are on level ground, so a wheelchair can access the mosque entrances. However, there are some steps and uneven paving (especially up to the tomb and into the old cemetery). The mosque ramps are minimal. The upstairs gallery is on a level reachable by a small ramp, but some ramped entrances may be narrow. The cable car to Pierre Loti can be a good option for those with limited mobility to enjoy the view without climbing. In short, modest assistance may be needed (e.g. from a companion) for full access, but it is not a huge obstacle. The sources did not list official disability info for this historic site, so if you have concerns it might be best to call ahead to the mosque\u2019s administration.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q6: Can I combine a visit with other nearby attractions?<\/strong><br \/>\nAbsolutely. Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque is ideally situated for a half-day of exploration. Immediately next door is the <strong>Ey\u00fcp Cemetery<\/strong> (one of Istanbul\u2019s largest historic graveyards) and beyond that, the <strong>Pierre Loti Cafe on the hill<\/strong>, as described above. A short tram or bus ride away is the Roman-era A\u011fa Mosque or the Pierre Loti Cemetery. The neighborhood has preserved Ottoman wooden houses and small museums (for example, the nearby Turkish Islamic Arts Museum, though it has moved locations). If you leave Istanbul along the Golden Horn by boat, consider a stop at the venerable <strong>Rustem Pasha Mosque<\/strong> on the same shore. Many tourists pair Ey\u00fcp with a cruise on the Golden Horn.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q7: What is the spiritual significance of the plane tree in the courtyard?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe large plane tree at the center of the mosque\u2019s inner courtyard is venerated as a living symbol. Ottoman chronicles say it was planted from a cutting of a holy tree in Medina. More tangibly, its platform was the stage for the Sword of Osman ceremony: as one source vividly describes, the Ottoman sultan stood on a \u201csmall platform, over which towers an ancient plane tree\u201d between the tomb and mosque while aides wrapped him with the imperial sword. Thus, the tree witnessed every sultan\u2019s accession ritual for centuries. In local tradition today, pilgrims tie prayer beads and written wishes onto its branches. In short, the Ey\u00fcp plane tree stands as a shrine of victory and blessing \u2013 a living link between the mosque\u2019s sacred past and present.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q8: Are there any specific days or events to avoid when planning a visit?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes. As noted above, Friday midday (Jum\u2018a) is the most crowded time, since local Muslims attend Friday prayer. Also <strong>Turkish national holidays and weekends<\/strong> should be avoided if you want fewer crowds. Ey\u00fcp Hill is a favorite Sunday outing for Istanbul families. One eyewitness account warns sharply, \u201cDon\u2019t go on 1st May (Labour Day)\u2026 or on any Turkish national holiday, or even on a Sunday\u2026 this is a very popular spot!\u201d. In practice, the most peaceful visits are on weekday mornings, outside Ramadan and major holidays. During Ramadan evenings (iftar time), the mosque sees many worshippers, so it may be best to visit in the late morning or early afternoon if possible.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q9: How much is the entrance fee?<\/strong><br \/>\nThere is <strong>no entrance fee<\/strong> to visit Ey\u00fcp Sultan Mosque and the tomb. It is free to enter all open areas. (The upkeep is funded by waqf and municipal support.) Donations are welcome but not required.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q10: Are guided tours available?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes, guided tours in multiple languages are often offered around Ey\u00fcp. You can arrange a private guide to explain the history and symbolism as you walk the complex. Some city tours include Ey\u00fcp, and the entrance allows hired guidebooks. Whether guided or not, clear information signs are posted in the courtyard and inner hall, so a curious visitor can learn many key facts even solo.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q11: Is photography allowed inside?<\/strong><br \/>\nPhotography is freely allowed in the outer courtyard and on the mosque portico. Flash photography is discouraged as it distracts worshippers. <strong>Inside the prayer hall and tomb, photography is forbidden<\/strong> out of respect. Signs at the doorway of the tomb explicitly instruct visitors not to take photos of the interior space or relics. Even in the prayer hall, it is considered impolite to aim cameras during prayer times. (Many travel writers note this rule.) For best results, save your photos for the grand exterior facades and views of the Golden Horn.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q12: Is the Ey\u00fcp area safe at night?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe immediate mosque environs remain open until dusk, after which gates close. The surrounding district is safe but relatively quiet at night. If you stay after dark, stick to the well-lit main street (the hilltop street by Ey\u00fcp Cemetery) and major caf\u00e9s. Istanbul\u2019s general safety rules apply: avoid empty alleyways alone. Many locals do evening strolls in Ey\u00fcp after prayer, so you\u2019ll see others around. In sum, Ey\u00fcp is not known for any specific danger, but be mindful as in any urban area after sunset.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"template":"","listivo_14":["Mosque"],"listivo_2723":[],"listivo_8964":["Istanbul"],"listivo_8976":[],"class_list":["post-12761","listivo_listing","type-listivo_listing","status-publish","hentry","listivo_14-mosque","listivo_8964-istanbul"],"listivo_145":["https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-8.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-7.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-9.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-11.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-10.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-1.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-6.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-5.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-4.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-3.jpg","https:\/\/travel-turkey.b-cdn.net\/wp-media-folder-travel-s-helper\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Eyup-Sultan-Mosque-2.jpg"],"listivo_8965":"","listivo_8966":[],"listivo_8967":{"address":"Ey\u00fcp Merkez, 34050 Ey\u00fcpsultan\/\u0130stanbul, T\u00fcrkiye","location":{"lat":41.0479225,"lng":28.9338509}},"listivo_27883":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27887":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_8968":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8969":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8970":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8971":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8972":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8973":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_8974":["Open 24 hours"],"listivo_344":[],"listivo_27412":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27270":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27431":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_345":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_26999":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_26941":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_26924":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27108":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_26978":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_26979":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27356":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27361":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27105":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27369":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27100":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27111":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27153":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27256":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27260":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27265":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27281":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27288":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27294":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27300":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27305":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27073":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27309":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27335":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27416":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27420":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27442":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27448":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27459":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27472":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27478":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27496":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27518":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27542":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27579":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27618":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27656":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27681":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27722":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27750":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27799":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27825":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27829":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27836":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27840":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27844":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27888":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27890":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_27958":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28045":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28134":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28135":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28136":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28137":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28138":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28139":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28140":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28141":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28142":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28143":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28144":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28145":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28146":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28147":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_28148":{"url":"","embed":""},"listivo_35727":{"url":"","embed":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listings\/12761","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listings"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/listivo_listing"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listings\/12761\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18211,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listings\/12761\/revisions\/18211"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12761"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"listivo_14","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listivo_14?post=12761"},{"taxonomy":"listivo_2723","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listivo_2723?post=12761"},{"taxonomy":"listivo_8964","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listivo_8964?post=12761"},{"taxonomy":"listivo_8976","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travelshelper.com\/turkey\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/listivo_8976?post=12761"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}