Eyüp Sultan Mosque travel guide

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque holds a distinctive position in the history of Istanbul, dating back to the Ottoman era. It was the first significant structure erected by the Ottoman Turks after their conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The mosque was constructed in honor of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of Prophet Muhammad, who is believed to have been buried on this site during the Arab siege of the city in the 7th century.

In 1798, the original mosque was severely damaged due to an earthquake and was subsequently rebuilt in a Baroque style by Sultan Selim III. The mosque complex also includes a mausoleum, a madrasa, and a cemetery. Today, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque is not only a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims but also a major tourist attraction due to its historical significance and architectural grandeur.

The mosque's location in the Eyüpsultan district further enhances its charm, offering a tranquil atmosphere away from the bustling city life. A visit to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque provides a unique insight into Istanbul's rich history and religious heritage.

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque stands out primarily due to its historical and spiritual significance. It is the fourth most important Islamic site, after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem, due to its association with Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, the standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed, who is buried here. This gives the mosque a unique spiritual atmosphere, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year.

Architecturally, the mosque is an impressive example of Ottoman Baroque style. Its interior is decorated with ornate calligraphy, while the exterior is surrounded by a peaceful courtyard, which includes a historic library with thousands of rare manuscripts. The mosque complex also features a large cemetery, where notable individuals from Turkish history are buried, adding to its historic significance. One of the most distinctive features of the mosque is its tall, slender minaret, which is one of the highest in Istanbul and provides panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn. The location of the mosque at the end of the Golden Horn also gives it a scenic backdrop, making it a visually appealing as well as a spiritually significant site.

Discover Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a prime feature of Eyüpsultan, in the vibrant Eyüpsultan. Eyüp Sultan Mosque is situated at Eyüp Merkez, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Türkiye, just a short distance from Pierre Loti Hill and Rahmi M. Koç Museum, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Eyüp Sultan Mosque, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Eyüpsultan, a town in Turkey rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town for an unforgettable adventure.

Eyüp Sultan Mosque is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Eyüpsultan, Turkey. From there, you can easily reach Eyüp Sultan Mosque by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Eyüpsultan, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Eyüp Sultan Mosque, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Eyüp Merkez, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Eyüp Sultan Mosque!

The best time to explore Eyüp Sultan Mosque is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer comfortable temperatures, making it ideal to appreciate the architectural grandeur of the mosque and the surrounding district. The mosque tends to be less crowded during these seasons, allowing a more personal experience. However, if you wish to immerse yourself in the local culture, consider visiting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, the mosque is particularly vibrant, with special prayers and activities. Bear in mind that the mosque is a site of pilgrimage and can get crowded on Fridays and during Islamic holidays. Also, it is advisable to avoid prayer times to respect the religious customs. As a practical tip, visiting early in the morning or late afternoon can help avoid crowds and provide an opportunity to witness the mosque in different lighting, enhancing the overall visual experience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Eyüpsultan, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Eyüp Sultan Mosque.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic mosque in Turkey.

Choosing the right accommodation near Eyüp Sultan Mosque from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Eyüpsultan can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Eyüp Sultan Mosque, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Eyüp Sultan Mosque, Eyüpsultan boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in Eyüpsultan offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Eyüpsultan is Galata Tower, located at Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Egyptian Bazaar is worth seeing when you're in Eyüpsultan. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Grand Bazaar completes any trip to Eyüpsultan. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Eyüpsultan below to discover even more incredible places to explore.