Rustem Pasha Mosque: The Top of Iznik (Nicaea) Tiles
Rustem Pasha Mosque, where the most beautiful examples of Iznik Tile art are located, continues to be the center of attention of local and foreign art lovers.
History
The mosque was built by famous architecht Architect Sinan (Mimar Sinan) in the 1560s for Grand Vizier Rustem Pasha. Rustem Pasha was one of the famous Ottoman statesmen of the period and also the son-in-law of Suleiman The Magnificent. After the death of Rustem Pasha, the mosque was completed by his wife Mihrimah Sultan.
The Mosque is among the masterpieces of Mimar Sinan.
This mosque, which is located in the historical peninsula in Istanbul, Eminönü district, behind the main street and in the Hasircilar Bazaar in Tahtakale, stands out with the most glamorous tiles of the Ottoman period.
Evliya Celebi (1611–1682) wrote about this mosque in Seyahatname which is his famous travel book: “It is not described with languages. it is a two-storey, illuminated mosque with tiles all over, with cellars and shops under it.” He added that he was the work of Mimar (Architect) Sinan in his book.
Europe’s Most Beautiful Mosque
Rustem Pasha Mosque was chosen as the most beautiful mosque in Europe in 2007 by Newsweek magazine, one of the most famous magazines of America.
In the article published by the signature of Rana Foroohar. She said : “The mosque on the European continent is less touristy and smaller in Hagia Sophia and Sultanahmet, but much more beautiful and peaceful in my opinion. The entrance isn’t particularly glorious. But once you get inside, it contains the most amazing Iznik tiles and mosaics to date. It’s like a garden decorated with tiles, and it’s the perfect place for peacefull. It is also important that it is very close to the Spice Bazaar. You will not believe you have been in Europe”. used her expressions.
Rustem Pasha Mosque, where you will see many types of tiles together in Istanbul. The mosque is the second of the three mosques built by Mimar Sinan by the sea.
Architecture
The mosque where the richest collection of tiles in Turkey resembles like a tile museum. The small courtyard of the mosque, which has dozens of shops around, is reached by a spiral staircase on both sides. The tiles, which resemble the flower garden in comparison with the simplicity at the entrance, give a magnificent view. The mosque is rectangular and its dome is placed on 8 columns.
The mosque is furnished with beautiful Iznik tile samples from starting the entrance to the dome inside. It is said that there are 41 types of tulip motifs.
The Mosque gives peace to its visitors with Iznik tiles decorated with flower motifs such as tulips, carnations, roses, daisies and lilies.
Rustem Pasha Mosque, which is on the list of places to visit by foreign tourists. The Mosque is waiting for its visitors with its magnificent Iznik tiles.
