Rustem Pasha Mosque - Istanbul / Turkey

The Rüstem Pasha Mosque

The Rüstem Pasha Mosque [Turkish: Rüstem Paşa Camii], can be found in the Eminönü district, situated near the Golden Horn. In 1560, Rüstem Pasha, Grand vizier and son-in-law to Süleiman the Magnificent, commissioned imperial architect, Mimar Sinan to build this small, but exquisite mosque. Rüstem Pasha died in 1561 before the mosque's completion in '1563. His tomb is located near Şehzade Mosque.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque is a rare example of Mimar Sinan's work that includes shopsı inns, and fountainsı whose rent was used to support the mosque. The mosque is also noted for its vast adornments of Iznik tiles in stunning floral and geometric patterns; in particular, the use of the tomato-red color, which was new and in vogue at the time. Due to earthquakes and fires over the years, the mosque underwent major repairs from 1962 to 1968.

The Rüstem Pasha Mosque

The entrance to the mosque is a little hard to spot, but anyone working in the area will happily point you in the right direction.

Narrow, winding flights of stairs will lead you to the mosque`s courtyard, where you can see some of the most beautiful Iznik tiles in Istanbul.

The mosque is very close to the Spice Bazaar, New Mosque, and Süleymaniye Mosque.

Notes:Scarves and robes are available for women to cover their arms, legs, and heads.
Men should wear trousers instead of shorts.