Laleli Mosque

Laleli Mosque stands on Ordu Street in Fatih, in Istanbul’s busy Historic Peninsula. Sultan Mustafa III commissioned it, and architect Mehmet Tahir Ağa designed the building, completed in 1763. Its 18th-century Ottoman Baroque style comes into view in the domes, minarets, stained-glass windows and spacious prayer hall. Step through the entrance courtyard to see the interior and its architectural details. The mosque remains a place of prayer, with a calm atmosphere despite the surrounding commercial and residential streets.

Built in the 18th century

Sultan Mustafa III commissioned Laleli Mosque, and architect Mehmet Tahir Ağa designed it. Construction ran from 1760 to 1763, with the mosque completed in 1763. The complex takes its name from Laleli Baba, whose tomb is beside it.

The building was destroyed by fire in 1783 and later rebuilt. Its design is described as Ottoman Baroque, with an influence from Selimiye Mosque, the celebrated work of architect Mimar Sinan.

The courtyard and prayer hall

The entrance courtyard leads into a spacious prayer hall. Stained-glass windows, domes and minarets are among the details to look for as you move between the exterior and interior. The prayer hall can accommodate many worshippers, and the mosque continues to be used for prayer throughout the day.

Laleli Mosque sits on a busy street in a mixed commercial and residential part of Fatih. The contrast between the active streets outside and the quieter interior is part of the visit. Keep your attention on the mosque and its grounds, and give worshippers space.