New Mosque

A Not so New Mosque, Packed With History

In Istanbul, you will come across one of the most prominent buildings on the skyline, and it is called the New Mosque. This is rather misleading, because this mosque is not ‘new’ at all, in fact, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city itself!

The New Mosque, or Yeni Camii as it is known in Turkish, sits overlooking the beautiful Golden Horn in Eminonu, just a few feet from the famous Galata Bridge. As the sun sets, the mosque is one of the most famous you will see in that iconic image of the orange sky with the mosque minarets casting a stunning shadow over the rest of the buildings. The mosque is also a few feet from the fragrant Spice Bazaar, and sits in one of the busiest and most cultural areas of the entire city of Istanbul.

Definitely Not New, But Certainly Beautiful

The New Mosque was completed in 1663, so definitely not a new building! Amongst locals, the mosque is referred to as ‘the mosque with the birds’, or words to that effect. This is because the courtyard of the mosque, which opens up right onto the main street pavement, always has countless pigeons sat waiting for tasty morsels from the abundant passerby population!

This is a functioning mosque, and the decoration and overall structure is large, imposing, and stunningly beautiful. The original complex contained several buildings, such as a hospital, fountains, a market, and a traditional hamam, however many of these are not evident today.

The New Mosque is known by several names aside form Yeni Camii, including Valide Sultan Camii, and also Eminonu Camii. The name might have changed throughout history, but the mosque remains one of the most beautiful in the area, and one which you simply have to gaze upon when visiting this busy and bustling part of Istanbul.

The History of The New Mosque

Despite it being an old mosque (not a new one), this is one of the last Imperial mosques of its kind to be built. It was built during Sultan Mehmet III’s reign and the standing point of the mosque was chosen by his mother. This is perhaps why the original name was Valid Sultan Camii, because it means ‘Queen Mother Mosque’.

The New Mosque was slow in construction, and took several decades to complete. The main reason for this was money, and the fact that the architect who began the project died, as did the Sultan himself, and his mother. The New Mosque was completed under the reign of Sultan Mehmet IV.

Visiting The New Mosque

The New Mosque often undergoes restoration work from time to time, to ensure that it remains its stunningly beautiful self. Being so close to the water’s edge and standing right in the way of the elements from the Bosphorus means that erosion can and does take place. Regular works to restore the New Mosque will therefore keep it standing firm for many years to come.

Remember, this is a functioning mosque, so it will be close to general visitors during prayer times. You should also check times for closure during public holidays, such as Ramadan, etc. The New Mosque is open to visitors from 9am until 6pm every day, again closed at prayer times. You don’t have to pay an entrance fee, however donations are very greatly received and will go towards upkeep of the New Mosque. By doing this, you are doing your bit to keep the mosque as beautiful as it has always been, for future generations to visit.

The New Mosque is located in one of the most historically and authentically vibrant parts of the city, and that means you will have plenty to see and do before or after your visit. Eminonu is packed with culture, and it is also one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul too, sat right on the water’s edge, on the Golden Horn. A visit to the Spice Bazaar is a must do, as well as a fish sandwich (balik ekmek) from one of the stalls on the edge of the water!

You can easily get to Eminonu from any part of the city, either via bus or tram. If you’re staying in Taksim, you can also walk down the hill towards the Galata Tower, keep going, and then cross the Galata Bridge on foot. What a wonderfully scenic walk to take! Remember your camera for your journey to Eminonu, and if you’re visiting at sun set, be sure to capture that golden glow casting its colour over the entire Golden Horn, and of course, the beautiful New Mosque.