Are you wondering if you should visit the Çamlıca Mosque on the Asian side of Istanbul? Yes, go! In this article, I will share 4 reasons why you should visit it (and why it is different than the Blue Mosque).
What to expect in this article:
About Istanbul
Have you ever heard of Istanbul? Even though it is not the capital, it is the largest city in Turkey.
Istanbul is a special city that lays in two continents: Europe and Asia. It has a unique mix of culture, history, and beautiful buildings. For example, you can find busy markets and old mosques in Istanbul, where the past meets the present.
The city is full of contrasts, with tall, modern buildings next to ancient monuments. The mosques are very important landmarks, each with a story and beauty.
In this article, I will be focusing more on the Asian side of Istanbul, where the mosque is located.
My Visit to Çamlıca Mosque
In October 2024, I had the chance to visit Çamlıca Mosque. It was an unforgettable experience. I was there during prayer time, and it was very special to watch the religious scene.
To be honest, I liked Çamlıca Mosque even more than the famous Blue Mosque, which is often very crowded. The calmness of the Asian side of Istanbul and Çamlıca Mosque made it one of the best parts of my trip to Istanbul. It is just so gorgeous! If you plan to visit this amazing city, here are five reasons why you should see Çamlıca Mosque.
1. Fewer crowds, more peace
In my opinion, you should visit both Çamlıca Mosque and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque). It is completely different, but some things are still kind of the same. In the picture below you can understand what I mean.
But, Çamlıca Mosque is a quiet place compared to the Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque is often very crowded with tourists.
In contrast, Çamlıca Mosque has fewer people, which creates a peaceful atmosphere. You can walk around slowly and admire the beautiful details of the mosque without feeling rushed. This calm environment allows you to relax and enjoy your visit fully.
Next to that, did you know that Çamlıca Mosque is much larger than the Blue Mosque. It can hold more people, which makes it more comfortable during busy times.
In the Blue Mosque, you are unable to witness the prayers, while in Çamlıca Mosque you can, if you are lucky, and go in just before it starts.
2. Stunning Ottoman-inspired architecture
The design of Çamlıca Mosque is beautiful and inspired by traditional Ottoman architecture, just like the famous Blue Mosque. The mosque has tall domes, elegant minarets, and intricate patterns that show the skill of the builders. It combines old styles with new ideas, making it a unique and special sight. For anyone who loves history and art, the mosque is a wonderful place to explore and appreciate.
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3. Gorgeous views of Istanbul
Çamlıca Mosque is located on Çamlıca Hill, which offers amazing views of Istanbul. From the mosque, you can see the Bosphorus River, the beautiful skyline, and both the European and Asian parts of the city. This location is perfect for taking photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
I thought it was magical to be at such a religious and peaceful place and have this gorgeous view.
In addition, the color of Çamlıca Mosque changes beautifully depending on the time of day. In the morning, when the sun comes up, the mosque shines with soft, warm colors that make it look magical. As the sun gets higher in the sky, the mosque shows bright colors like white and blue. At sunset, the mosque turns a rich, golden color. This change in color makes the mosque more beautiful and gives you a new adventure every time you visit!
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4. A symbol of modern Istanbul
As the largest mosque in Turkey, Çamlıca has a huge, beautiful interior It has high ceilings, beautiful chandeliers, and many other details. The spacious hall feels calm and impressive.
Çamlıca Mosque is not just an old place; it is also a symbol of modern Istanbul. It was completed in 2019, showing how Istanbul honors its history while also becoming a modern city. The mosque combines the rich Ottoman history with a fresh, new style. It is a place where you can see how Turkish buildings and culture have changed over time. Pretty cool in my opinion.
Çamlıca Mosque shows that Istanbul is not just an old city; it is also a city with an exciting future. Istanbul really stole my heart and I can’t wait to visit it more often!
How to reach & Contact details
The easiest way to reach the Çamlıca Mosque is by taxi/ Uber. Some metros and busses are going there, but you have to check the latest updates on Google Maps (for example), as it changes from time to time.
Contact Details:
- Address: Çamlıca Mosque, Burhaniye Mahallesi, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey
- Phone: +90 216 580 01 00
Visiting hours may vary, so it’s a good idea to check ahead or call to confirm before your visit. Enjoy your time at Çamlıca Mosque!
I hope you liked reading the article and I can’t wait to hear about your experience at this mosque!
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