Eyüp Sultan Mosque
Travel Point Overview
Built in 1458, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is not only a stunning example of Ottoman architecture but also one of the most spiritually significant sites in Istanbul. The mosque gained special importance as the traditional site where Ottoman sultans would gird the
Eyüp Sultan Mosque: The Spiritual Heart of Istanbul
📍 Location: Eyüpsultan, Istanbul
🕌 Construction Year: 1458
🎟 Entrance: Free of charge
🕰 Visiting Hours: Open daily – visiting outside of prayer times is recommended
🚍 How to Get There: From Eminönü, take bus number 99 or 99A, which stop directly in front of Eyüp Sultan Mosque. You can also use the Haliç (Golden Horn) minibus line or the Eyüpsultan Cable Car.
A Sacred Place Steeped in History
Built in 1458, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is not only a stunning example of Ottoman architecture but also one of the most spiritually significant sites in Istanbul. The mosque gained special importance as the traditional site where Ottoman sultans would gird the Sword of Osman during their enthronement ceremonies.
The mosque is rectangular in plan, with a projecting mihrab (prayer niche). Its central dome is supported by six columns and two massive piers, surrounded by semi-domes. Adjacent to the mosque is the Tomb of Eyüp Sultan, built with an octagonal plan and topped by a single dome. Just inside the tomb’s entrance is the Kadem-i Şerif (Footprint of the Prophet Muhammad), and to the right is a beautifully ornate sebil (public water fountain).
The mosque’s inner courtyard features 12 columns supporting 13 domes, with a centrally located ablution fountain. The outer courtyard includes ancient wish fountains and a majestic, centuries-old plane tree. Surrounding the tree is a raised terrace with wrought-iron railings, adorned with Mevlevi symbols—a nod to Sultan Selim III’s connection with the Mevlevi Sufi order.
Who Was Eyüp Sultan?
Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, known in Turkey as Eyüp Sultan, was a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He hosted the Prophet during his arrival in Medina and remained one of his most loyal followers. Despite his old age, he joined the Arab army in the first siege of Constantinople in the 7th century and was martyred near the city walls.
Centuries later, after the Conquest of Istanbul, it is said that Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror was informed in a dream of Eyüp Sultan’s burial place. A tomb was built on the spot, and it became one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Islamic world. It remains a place where visitors of all backgrounds come to pray, make wishes, and find spiritual peace.
📲 Use the Advisormapp app to find directions to Eyüp Sultan Mosque and access the audio guide for deeper historical insights. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection or cultural discovery, this iconic mosque offers a truly unforgettable experience.
