Strategically positioned right next to the Dolmabahçe Palace, the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire during its final years, the mosque was intended to serve as a place of worship and also as a symbol of imperial power and modernity. Its location was carefully chosen to impress all who arrived by sea, offering a stunning visual introduction to the magnificence of Istanbul.
OTTOMAN IMPERIAL MOSQUES
Ottoman sultans or members of the imperial dynasty commissioned these monumental complexes. They were usually constructed as külliye, multi-functional complexes centred on a mosque, surrounded by madrasas, kitchens, baths and other charitable institutions serving the community.
The great imperial architect Mimar Sinan, master architect of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 50 years, designed many of the still-standing külliye in Istanbul. He set the standard for mosque and complex architecture.
Imperial mosques were also built in other Ottoman cities, including Bursa, Edirne, Konya, Amasya, Manisa and even Damascus.
DOLMABAHCE MOSQUE
Bezmialem Valide Sultan, the mother of Sultan Abdülmecid I, initiated the construction of this mosque in 1853. But she passed away later that same year, leaving her ambitious project unfinished. Determined to honour his mother’s wishes and legacy, Sultan Abdülmecid I oversaw the continuation of the work, ensuring its completion two years later, in 1855.
The mosque was not just another religious structure. It held a unique status as an official palace mosque, primarily due to its immediate proximity to the Dolmabahçe Palace.
This strategic location was no coincidence. Bezmialem Valide Sultan deliberately envisioned a mosque that would serve both symbolic and practical purposes. It embodied imperial prestige while also providing a convenient place for the Sultan and members of the court to perform their Friday prayers without having to leave the palace grounds.
Also, the mosque served a significant diplomatic purpose. It impressed foreign dignitaries and ambassadors visiting the Ottoman court, particularly those from Islamic nations.
By offering them a grand setting for prayer, the Sultan projected an image of devoutness, generosity and unwavering commitment to Islam. This gesture was seen as an embodiment of his role as a protector of the faith and a leader of the path of Jihad. The mosque visibly demonstrated how he invested the empire’s wealth in the service of Allah and the Islamic cause.
Architecturally, the mosque represents the Ottoman Baroque style, a unique fusion of traditional Ottoman elements with European Baroque influences. Its elegant lines, elaborate ornamentation and harmonious proportions create a sense of grandeur and grace that continues to captivate visitors.
Especially from a distance, the mosque stands as a shimmering jewel by the waterfront. It is a testament to the artistic and spiritual aspirations of an era striving to modernise, while staying rooted in its traditions.
OTTOMAN SHIMMERING JEWEL
Today, the Dolmabahce Mosque continues to captivate visitors with its stunning architecture and rich historical significance. It stands proudly as a symbol of the bridge between tradition and transformation in Ottoman history.
I took the photo below back in 2013, during one of my visits to Istanbul. On that particular trip, I was with a group of friends and we decided to take a Bosporus tour. Interestingly, at that time, I knew very little about Istanbul’s Ottoman past. I remember looking at this beautiful building, completely unaware of its name or historical importance.
Even so, I was surprised by how breath-taking it was. The feeling stayed with me long before I learnt the story behind it.
Finally, let me say a word about the correct spelling of this mosque’s name. In Turkish, it is the Dolmabahçe Mosque. However, since the letter “ç” does not exist in English, I am using “c” instead.
Given that this is an English language text, search engines may not recognise the original spelling. It would make the post less visible. This minor, but necessary adjustment doesn’t alter the meaning. Readers will clearly understand which mosque is being referenced.
Back to Turkey