Standing as a towering beacon to the Muslim people, the Blue Mosque in Turkey is considered a major work of Islamic architecture around the world. In fact, of all the ancient mosques, it is noted as one of the most treasured of the mosques in the world today. Built during the Ottoman Empire, the mosque is located in Istanbul Turkey. This highly unusual mosque is world renown for its blue tiled roof and the six minarets that can be seen from great distances. It is also recognizable for its many cascading domes and vast courtyard. The interior of the domed roof is world renowned and is lined with 20,000 blue tiles interlayed with gold, white, yellow and red tiles. The famous blue Isnik tiles is where the mosque receives its name. Many of the original blue tiles that remain are engraved with flowers, trees and other more abstract patterns. The building features over 260 windows that were once hand crafted 17th century stained glass. Many of these have been replaced over the years with inferior replicas due to breakage.

The mosque was commissioned to be built by the Sultan Ahmet I at the age of 19. It was built near the Byzantine Imperial Palace. The construction of the mosque started in 1609 and took seven years to finish. When the Sultan Ahmet I decided upon building this vast mosque it was his intention to build a place of Islamic worship even more profound than that of the Hagia Sophia which is another premier mosque in Istandbul.

The mosque was designed by a premier architect of the time, Mehmet Aga. Because the Sultan Ahmet I was so passionate about this mosque, it was named after him. Though widely known around the world as the Blue Mosque of Istanbul, it's more traditional official name is the Sultanahmet Mosque. The sultan whose passion brought him to aid in the building of the structure hands on at times, had a very brief time to enjoy the splendor of his creation as he died just one year after it's completion. The mosque during its premier days, featured many other outbuildings including: a market, a hospital, a primary school for Muslim youth and the tomb for the Sultan Ahmet I and his family. Most of the buildings were torn down in the 1800's and the only remaining buildings that stand today are the mosque and the tomb which features a courtyard and a garden area.

For people who wish to see the Blue Mosque, Turkey offers great festivals and events that allow people to learn more about this architectural masterpiece and its religious significance to the Muslim world both yesterday and today. Non worshippers to the mosque also known as a Masjid are not allowed to go to the main entrance as it is considered sacred.

The The Blue Mosque is open daily for non worshipping visitors at certain times of the day. The Muslim religion requires a modest attire for parishioners and visitors alike. All people entering the masjid are asked to dress modestly. Each visitor is expected to cover their knees and shoulders. Additionally, women are asked to cover their heads out of respect for the customs of the Muslim people. Visitors are also required to remove their shoes upon entering the Mosque. Plastic bags for visitors to carry their shoes in are provided, however, people are encouraged to bring their own bags as well. In addition, all visitors are asked to keep their voices low and be mindful when taking photographs. Visitors should note that this site is an active mosque and has many Muslim worshippers that visit the site daily for their prayers.