Kara Ahmed Pasha Mosque, Ottoman mosque in Topkapi, Turkey
Kara Ahmed Pasha Mosque is a structure of worship in Istanbul with a central dome supported by six red granite columns and three galleries inside. The complex also includes prayer halls, study rooms, residential cells, and washing fountains for religious ceremonies.
The mosque was built between 1555 and 1572 following designs by architect Mimar Sinan, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. It represents a significant work from the Ottoman empire's most powerful period.
The interior walls display blue and white tiles from the 16th century, while the western gallery ceiling shows red, blue, gold, and black patterns. These decorations create a colorful prayer space that feels both rich and welcoming.
The complex consists of several connected buildings that take time to explore fully. Visitors should plan to walk through different sections and take time to observe the details in each space.
This building represents the last imperial structure in Istanbul to use cuerda seca tilework, a specialized technique for controlling how glaze is applied to tiles. Few other buildings in the city still show this rare craftsmanship.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
