Photos of the waterfront and the mosque
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in the Uskudar district
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque in the Uskudar district, Istanbul
On the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, by Uskudar's central square and the ferry piers, stands the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque. It is one of two Istanbul monuments named after the daughter of Sultan Suleiman I. The complex in Uskudar was built in 1543-1548 to the design of Mimar Sinan and, thanks to its location by the pier, is also known as the Pier Mosque.
The building belongs to the early period of Sinan's work. The square prayer hall is covered by a large central dome, a colonnaded covered portico stands before the main facade, and a single minaret rises above. Large windows let in plenty of light, and a sadirvan for ablutions stands in the courtyard.
The historical architectural ensemble included a madrasa and a hammam, some buildings have been lost or rebuilt over time, and the mosque itself has been restored repeatedly after earthquakes. The mosque is active and open to visitors outside the times of congregational prayers. It is of interest as an example of 16th-century classical Ottoman architecture and a convenient stop during a walk along the Uskudar waterfront.
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On the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, by Uskudar's central square and the ferry piers, stands the Mihrimah Sultan Mosque. It is one of two Istanbul monuments named after the daughter of Sultan Suleiman I. The complex in Uskudar was built in 1543-1548 to the design of Mimar Sinan and, thanks to its location by the pier, is also known as the Pier Mosque.
The building belongs to the early period of Sinan's work. The square prayer hall is covered by a large central dome, a colonnaded covered portico stands before the main facade, and a single minaret rises above. Large windows let in plenty of light, and a sadirvan for ablutions stands in the courtyard.
The historical architectural ensemble included a madrasa and a hammam, some buildings have been lost or rebuilt over time, and the mosque itself has been restored repeatedly after earthquakes. The mosque is active and open to visitors outside the times of congregational prayers. It is of interest as an example of 16th-century classical Ottoman architecture and a convenient stop during a walk along the Uskudar waterfront.
Located by the pier and showcasing features of 16th-century Ottoman architecture.
Sinan's early work by the Bosphorus piers
Outside you can observe the proportions of the single-dome volume and the colonnaded portico, walk into the tranquil courtyard with its sadirvan, and circle the building from the waterfront side. Inside, attention is drawn to the marble mihrab and minbar, the hanging chandeliers, and the bright hall thanks to the large windows.
The mosque is active, so it is better to plan your visit outside the times of congregational prayers. Entry is free, modest dress is required when visiting, and shoes are removed at the entrance. It is recommended to behave quietly and respectfully; photography is usually allowed, but check the rules on site.
Nearby are the Uskudar waterfront and the small Semsi Pasha Mosque, also associated with Sinan's name. A few minutes' walk away are shopping streets and the Yeni Valide Mosque, and by the shore the Maiden's Tower is clearly visible on a small islet.
The most convenient way is to take a ferry to Uskudar's piers from the European shore or a train on the Marmaray line to Uskudar Station; the M5 metro line, Uskudar Station, is also suitable.
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