Şehzade Mosque: Mimar Sinan’s “apprentice work” and a prince’s memorial
- Mosques
- Şehzadebaşı, Fatih
- Free
Family hotels closest to Şehzade Mosque
Visitor information
| Type | Imperial mosque (built in memory of a prince) |
|---|---|
| Built | 1543–1548 |
| Commissioned by / architect | Suleiman the Magnificent, in memory of his son Prince Mehmed; Mimar Sinan |
| Neighbourhood | Şehzadebaşı, Fatih |
| Opening hours | Daily from morning until the night (isha) prayer; visitors are not admitted during prayer times |
| Admission | Free (there is a donation box) |
| Time needed | 20–30 min |
| Getting there | M2 Vezneciler-İstanbul Ü. stop, 5 min walk |
| From Sultanahmet Square | 2.5 km; a long walk, public transport recommended |
| Pushchair / stroller | Easy with a stroller |
| Best time | In the morning or the afternoon |
Opening hours and prices can change; check the official website before you go. Map links open in Google Maps.
Sinan’s first great experiment
The symmetrical plan, with the central dome supported by four half-domes, was the first time Sinan used this solution on such a large scale in Istanbul. The same plan was later used for the Blue Mosque and the New Mosque. The galleries on the outer facades, the small domes around the drum of the main dome and the elegant minarets make the mosque easy to recognise from afar.
A treasury of tombs
In the graveyard behind the mosque, besides Prince Mehmed’s tomb decorated with colourful tiles, are the tombs of important figures such as Rüstem Pasha, Prince Cihangir and Damat İbrahim Pasha. The tiles inside Prince Mehmed’s tomb are among the finest examples of early İznik tilework; the tombs may have limited visiting hours.
Visiting tips
- If you come to see the Aqueduct of Valens, add the mosque, just a 3-minute walk away, to your plan.
- The mosque courtyard is wide and quiet; the parks on the Vezneciler side make a short break for children.
Our family hotels near Şehzade Mosque
Walking times are approximate and measured from the hotel door; where the hotel gives its own time, we show that.
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Seven Roses Apart Hotel
Şehzade Mosque: 30 min walk (2.1 km) Walking route
Apartments with kitchens in Küçük Ayasofya, with roomy options for larger families
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Sareban Hotel
Şehzade Mosque: 30 min walk (2.1 km) Walking route
An alcohol-free family hotel in Küçük Ayasofya, looking out to the Marmara
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Green Life Apart Hotel
Şehzade Mosque: 30 min walk (2.1 km) Walking route
Family-run apartments with kitchenettes and a sea-view roof terrace in Küçük Ayasofya
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Emirhan Inn Hotel
Şehzade Mosque: 31 min walk (2.1 km) Walking route
A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast in Küçük Ayasofya
Frequently asked questions
Why was the Şehzade Mosque built?
Suleiman the Magnificent built this mosque in memory of his son Prince Mehmed, who fell ill and died in Manisa in 1543. Prince Mehmed’s tomb is behind the mosque.
