Rustem Pasha Mosque

An archetype of the Ottoman Mosque, Rustem Pasha Mosque is located close to the Spice Bazaar in the Tahtakale neighbourhood of Fatih district. This Ottoman mosque is another of the stunning works of imperial Mimar Sinan, with various intricate details and designs all over.

It was built in 1563 by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan for the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasa, after whom the structure was named. The interior covering of the building with İznik tiles in floral and geometric patterns makes it stand apart from traditional Ottoman architecture. It is constructed in the form of a kulliye with 16 shops, court buildings and baths surrounding the mosque. Since it is not an imperial mosque, it only has a single minaret standing with a conical top. The mosque today houses a religious school. Though it is not very big in size, it is definitely one of the most gorgeous mosques in Istanbul. It is closed to visitors during prayer times and flash photography inside the building is strictly prohibited.