Hotels near Rüstem Pasha Mosque

Built around 1561-1563 for Rüstem Pasha, grand vizier and son-in-law of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the Rüstem Pasha Mosque was designed by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Its interior is covered almost entirely in Iznik tiles, with tulips, carnations and hyacinths in deep red, cobalt blue and turquoise. Many consider it the finest tile work in Istanbul, yet it sees a fraction of the visitors of the city's larger mosques.

The mosque sits on a raised terrace above the shops of the market district, reached by a narrow staircase from the street, which is why many people walk past without noticing it. Entry is free, though it closes to visitors during prayer times. Women should cover their hair, and everyone should cover shoulders and knees.

Pro Tip: Visit mid-morning, between the dawn and noon prayers, when the winter light through the windows shows off the colours of the tiles best.