Beylerbeyi Mosque, Ottoman mosque in Beylerbeyi, Turkey.
Beylerbeyi Mosque features two symmetrical minarets and a central dome, with its main facade oriented toward the Bosphorus waters. The complex includes additional structures such as a bathhouse, primary school, and fountains that serve the neighborhood.
The building underwent major reconstruction between 1820 and 1821 under Sultan Mahmud II, when the original wooden dome was replaced with a stone one. This renovation reflects the architectural changes that took place during the empire's early reform period.
The interior decoration blends locally made and imported tiles with painted details that show late Ottoman artistic traditions. Visitors can see this mix of different craft traditions clearly in the walls and vault details.
The site is easily accessible from the street and offers shaded areas for those seeking quieter moments within the complex. The arcaded sections and courtyards allow visitors to explore the entire space at a comfortable pace without getting lost.
The structure occupies the former site of Istavroz Palace and includes a dedicated section honoring Rabia Kadin, mother of Sultan Abdülhamid I. This connection to palace history adds layers of meaning beyond its role as a prayer house.
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