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 must to visit because of its history.
This is a pretty mosque which is easily included in a trip to see Chora. I'd pop by on the way to the Pierre Lotfi cafe.
The mosque is filled with locals, not tourists. It feels and is 'local. See the mosque, then walk up the hill through the cemetery to the cafe at the top and enjoy the view.
Enjoy the ferry ride up to Eyup and visit the small town which is a magnet for pilgrims. The people watching is fantastic, as is the tram ride up to an coffee stop with a magnificent view.
It is very important Camii and a burial place of Sultan Eyup who was a standard barrier and Prophet's companion in early Islamic wars. This Camii has been recently restored to its early glory.
Eyup Sultan is a place you should visit in order to see and understand what the real Istanbul is. It is the most popular place that you can see the Islamic part of the country. Beside all the modern experiences you can have in Taksim or Beyogu, Eyup Sultan shows you the very conservative part of the Istanbul.
This place is one of the highlights of the city ! the village itself is nice and the mosque with its pilgrims is very impressive .You shouldn't miss the Muslim cemetery nearby on your way to the famous ( but crowded ) Pierre Loti Café.What a view from up there to the Golden Horn- unique !
Worth a visit. A holy place for muslims. Up on the hill it is a huge cemetry. Also, there is a coffe shop named pierre loti, with a wonderful view over the city and bosforus. To get there, from Eminonu you can take a bus or a ship, for a whole golden horn tour. For entering the mosque you must…
For muslims if you r going to istanbul you must pray Fatiha at Hazrat Ayyub R.A grave who was the companion of Hazrat Muhammad S.A.W.W.
This is one of the camii's that is always full. It was amazing to see people come here from all over. Especially seeing an endless stream of newly weds coming for a blessing.