PERTEVNIYAL VALIDE SULTAN MOSQUE
Situated in bustling Aksaray, the Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque is just a short walk from the Laleli Mosque, making it easy to visit both at the same time. The area is lively and full of character, with shops, cafés and a constant flow of people.
Among all the imperial mosques that I visited, this one was among the smallest. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in decorative detail. The Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque is a rare architectural gem.
Built in 1871, it was one of the last imperial mosques constructed during the Ottoman period. Because of this, it reflects the changing tastes and influences of the time.
Unlike the grand, classical designs of earlier imperial mosques, the Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque is remarkably ornate and stylistically diverse. It represents a transition from traditional Ottoman architecture towards more Western-influenced designs.
The mosque is an outstanding example of Ottoman Rococo, a decorative style that blends traditional Ottoman elements with an elaborate mix of Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Empire aesthetics. Whether or not you’re a fan of the Rococo style, it’s hard not to be impressed. In my opinion, it’s possibly one of the most beautifully decorated mosques in Istanbul.
So, who was Pertevniyal Sultan, the woman for whom they named this mosque? She was the wife of Sultan Mahmud II and the mother of Sultan Abdülaziz, who commissioned the mosque in her honor.
As a Valide Sultan, she held considerable influence at court and the mosque stands as a testament to her status and legacy.
The surrounding complex is small, yet fascinating, particularly because it differs so markedly from other examples of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul. Its unique character adds to the mosque’s charm and sets it apart as a site well worth exploring.
OTTOMAN ROCOCO GEM
Visiting the Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque offers more than just a glimpse into architectural history. It provides insight into the cultural and political shifts of the late Ottoman Empire, on the cusp of modernization. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder of how Istanbul’s layers of history coexist in every corner of the city.
The mosque is in a bustling, high-traffic area, which can sometimes detract from the overall experience, especially if you’re seeking a more peaceful visit. However, the moment you step inside, the noise of the outside world fades away.
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