Ortaköy Mosque Istanbul - The Village in the Middle

The historic city of Istanbul is home to countless beautiful, intricately designed mosques from antiquity. However, the Ortaköy Mosque, also known as Büyük Mecidiye Camii in Beşiktaş, stands out as one of the finest.

Ortakoy means “the village in the middle”.

The Ortaköy Mosque is situated in a unique location, right before the famous bridge over the Bosphorus Strait — the bridge that connects Asia and Europe. This mosque stands at the confluence of three religions: a Muslim mosque, a Jewish synagogue, and a Christian church, symbolizing Turkey’s religious diversity and secular ideals.

It’s impossible not to notice this stunning edifice by the waterfront, offering spectacular views at sunrise and sunset, making it one of the most photogenic spots in Istanbul.

But what makes the Ortaköy Mosque architecturally significant? It was rebuilt in the 19th century, replacing a smaller mosque that was originally built in 1720 and destroyed in 1731 during the Patrona Halil Uprising.

This baroque-style mosque is one of the finest examples of late Ottoman-era architecture.

The current structure was damaged in the 1894 earthquake and remained unstable for many decades. After more than a century, it was fully restored and returned to its former glory.

The mosque was designed and constructed by the Ottoman Armenian family of court architects, Garabet Balyan and his son Nigogayus Balyan, under the orders of Sultan Abdulmecid, to serve as the Grand Imperial Mosque. The architects completed this remarkable building in just two years. It’s no surprise that these same architects later designed the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace.

No better location could have been chosen for this mosque. The two architects crafted a truly inspiring structure, and the location adds to its grandeur.

An evening here can be spent leisurely, strolling through the charming, paved alleys of Ortaköy. It’s a popular gathering spot for locals, with a cozy atmosphere, lovely boutiques, waterfront cafés, and restaurants like Feriye Palace, Banyan, Kalamata, and Muesese.

While you’re there, take the time to explore not only one of Istanbul’s most historic mosques but also the city’s oldest and most nostalgic neighborhood. For an especially serene experience, try to visit in the early morning when the air is cool and mist often covers the mosque, offering a peaceful, almost ethereal view. Sip a cup of Turkish coffee by the seaside, and enjoy the tranquility before the day begins.

Çok gezen

Çok bilir

– A saying in Turkish which means, the one who travels a lot, learns a lot.