Hidden deep within the Fatih market lies one of Istanbul's lesser-known Ottoman treasures.
Not as well-known as the city's larger and more ostentatious mosques and palaces, many visitors miss out on the intricate splendours of the 500 year-old Rüstem Pasha Mosque. However, the interior of this house of prayer features some of the most exquisite tiling in the world, and easily rivals Istanbul's other architectural masterpieces.This beautiful mosque was completed in the mid-16th century following the death in 1561 of Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha, to whose memory it is dedicated. Rüstem Pasha was the son-in-law of Süleyman the Magnificent, and is infamous for scheming to oust the sultan's son Prince Mustafa with the help of Süleyman's wife Roxelana. Prince Mustafa was subsequently executed and Roxelana's son Selim the Sot took the throne, events which many claim spelled the beginning of the end for the Ottoman Empire.Rüstem Pasha Mosque is located within the Fatih district's vibrant market, and is overlooked by the sultan's enormous Süleymaniye Mosque on the hill above. Its location and relatively small size are representative of the fact that, although he was one of the wealthiest men in the Ottoman Empire, Rüstem Pasha's status could never rival that of the sultan. Nevertheless, Rüstem Pasha Mosque was designed by Mimar Sinan, the illustrious architect behind the Süleymaniye Mosque and a number of Istanbul's most celebrated buildings.The elevated terrace courtyard of the mosque is accessed via a narrow staircase. From here you can see the shops below and take in the sights and smells of the Spice Bazaar. Inside, you'll be blown away by the elaborate designs of the red, white and blue tiles. The geometric and floral patterns are elegantly punctuated by tall stone columns and arched doorways. The fact that the mosque is not a common stop on the tourist trail lends it a wonderfully serene atmosphere, perfect for a spot of quiet contemplation.You'll find Rüstem Pasha Mosque in the Old City district of Tahtakele. Rüstem Pasha Mosque is a working mosque and, as such, is closed to visitors during prayer times listen out for the calls to prayer to know when this is.
