Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque

Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque was inaugurated in 1871 by Pertevniyal Valide Sultan, the wife of Sultan II. Mahmut and the mother of Sultan Abdülaziz. Designed by the Armenian architect Serkis Balyan and his family, this magnificent structure is an important work that sheds light on the history of Istanbul. Located in the northern part of Aksaray, the mosque stands out with its architectural elegance and unique details.

Architectural Features: Unlike traditional Turkish architecture, the mosque is built in a neo-Gothic style and boasts exquisite stone craftsmanship. Its square layout features two fluted minarets and a high dome resembling that of a church. Inside the mosque, you can find verses from the Quran written by the calligrapher Mehmet Efendi. The outer grills of the windows are also highly aesthetic and contribute to the architectural unity of the structure. Moreover, the entrance door facing the square is monumental, considered one of the finest examples of Turkish stone craftsmanship. The stone grills on the door create a cohesive design. The mosque exhibits a certain architectural eclecticism, as it attempts to synthesize different styles. The interior decorations are dazzling, with a mihrab and minbar made of marble.

Inauguration and Complex: The mosque was opened with a grand ceremony. It functions almost like a complex, including a fountain, a library, and the tomb of Pertevniyal Valide Sultan. These structures represent some of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture and carry the historical richness into the present day.

Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque is a significant contribution to Istanbul's cultural heritage, where history and elegance meet. Visiting this mosque, which holds great historical and architectural value, offers the opportunity to trace the footprints of the past and discover its unique details.

Address: Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque, Aksaray, Istanbul.