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.
The plan of the building is basically that of an octagon inscribed in a rectangle. The main dome rests on four semi-domes; not on the axes but in the diagonals of the building.
It felt less holy than I expected because of kids running through the nave and the thick scent of tom cat spray, but it truly was serene, quiet and worthy of a trip. The people in the surrounds were tickled to meet Americans and we had delicious desserts and a fabulous dinner at Nearby Eyup Sultan Konagi.
Great place to explore the cultural costumes. We went there on a Friday and saw people celebrating and praying. The location is beautiful viewing the golden horn. We were luck to watch a turkish band playing old turkish songs free to the public.
20 minute drive from the main Sultanahmet square. Once you reach there feels like you have come to an entirely different country. Perhaps because here is the real Istanbul. No one could utter a word of English here. Visited early morning so not much of a crowd.
It is a much simpler style mosque than the Blue Mosque but still very beautiful.
Amazing beatuful mosque !
We went to Eyup to visit this mosque, it was so beautiful! There is a lot of history surrounding this, I just wish that some of the history was actually in english – nevertheless we still managed to get a translation of what was written.
It was a honor given to me and my wife by the Almighty Allah to recite Fateha and spent whole day at the Tomb and Mosque .Probably one of the most spiritual places in istanbul where the eyup sultan mosque is adjoined with the tomb of the great companion of the prophet is buried. A once in a lifetime opportunity…
Lots of history behind this mosque. Very old building and the architecture is stunning. Very near Golden Horn, so 2 sights for the price of 1 taxi ride!
Like the place, the buildings, thearrangements & areas around dislike accessibility via public transport is not easy.