The Eyup Sultan Mosque is the holiest site in Istanbul and one of the most sacred places in the Islamic world.
History
Eyup Sultan Mosque was erected by Mehmet the Conqueror over the tomb of Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyûb (known as Eyup Sultan), the standard bearer for the Prophet Mohammed as well as the last survivor of his inner circle of trusted companions.
It is popularly accepted that while serving as commander of the Arab forces during the siege of 668 to 669, Eyup was killed and buried on the outskirts of the city. One of the conditions of peace after the Arab siege was that the tomb of Eyup be preserved.
The burial site was “discovered” during Mehmet the Conqueror’s siege on the city, although the tomb is mentioned in written accounts as early as the 12th century.
A little village of tombs mushroomed on the spot by those seeking Eyup Sultan’s intervention in the hereafter, and it’s still considered a privilege to be buried in the nearby cemeteries.
The Girding of the Sword ceremony was traditionally held here. In this Ottoman enthronement rite, Osman Gazi’s sword was passed on, maintaining continuity within the dynasty as well as creating a connection with the Turk’s early ideal of Holy War.
What to See
Eyup is a popular spot animated by the small bazaar nearby, crowds relaxing by the spray of the fountains, and little boys in blue and white satin celebrating their impending circumcisions. Unfortunately, it’s a natural magnet for beggars as well.
The baroque mosque replaces the original that was destroyed in the earthquake of 1766, but the real attraction here is the turbe, a sacred burial site that draws masses of pilgrims waiting in line to stand in the presence of the contents of the solid silver sarcophagus or meditate in prayer.
A holy place indeed…
You can visit this mosque when you are going to "Pier Loti" hill. The mosque itself has nothing interesting for a normal visitor unless you didn't see Blue mosque, Suleymanih mosque or Fatih mosque. but the area around the mosque is very nice for eating, drinking and more than that buying some gifts for your family and friends.
The mosque was a good visit less tourists here and more locals. We went to an amazing cemetary downhill towards Eyup Sultan. There were fire flies around us which almost made the experience magical. Eyüp Sultan is a very conservative part of the Istanbul.
This is a v very important place those exploring history and religion. The grave is probably the holiest shrine in Istanbul. There is little English writing around this site so do your research prior to the visit.
Pilgrims attending are all so nice and friendly they also share sweets with children.
Another mosque that is definitely worth making the trip to see. This is one of the oldest mosques and sits at the hills of the Golden Horns Cable Cars. I would also suggest that you take the ride up the cable cars and then walk the streets of Eyup. You'll be very pleased.
Not only for the Eyüp mosque but for the neighbouthood named the same, the visit of Eyüp mosque is maybe one of the most realistic visit in Istambul area as this neighbourhood is very populous. The mosque is entirely used by the Istambul people as the sacred place it is and for that reason you will not find tourist annoying…
It was crowded but just lovely. You can peek into one of the windows and see the tomb of Eyüp Sultan. It's a must see in my opinion. You can then walk up to Pierre Loti for a tea and enjoy the beautiful view overlooking Istanbul.
Was lost for words at the beauty they had that many centuries ago. It is amazing the intricate patterns and mosiac tiles coloura are mind blowing a must see.
The mosque complex is big and inside the mosque ground is the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari the standard bearer of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. His tomb is greatly venerated by Muslims.