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.
we went at night and people were praying and were giving people some suits celebrating the first days of receb . there were lot of restaurants and shops near by we spent a nice time exploring that nice area
Whilst in Istanbul we visited several Masjid (mosque) to attend the daily prayers.
What I loved about this particular Masjid was the friendly family atmosphere that surrounded the whole place.
For those that don't know, this Masjid acquires its name from one the companions of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) Eyup Sultan lived in Medina at the time…
Why is this town not listed as a must-visit place in Istanbul? Although the Eyup mosque is highly reccommended place to visit. There are so much more Eyup can offer than just visiting the mosque. This town probably has not been explored much by the tourists except the cemetery part.
I visited the Eyup Sultan Mosque one afternoon and was encouraged by Turkish women to climb the stairs to their section above the main room. I had a scarf with me so there was no problem and I removed my Tevas. It was one of the best experiences I've had in Turkey.
We visited with a Tours by Locals Guide who gave us a great insight into this mosque. It is the holiest of Istanbuls mosques and was full of people praying to Mohommed's Standard Bearer. During Ottoman times it was where the Sultan's were crowned. A different experience from the Blue Mosque
The mosque was built later but the location originally serves as the grave of Abu Ayub Al-Ansari. This is a place to visit simply to give salam and pray for the soul of a companion of the Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him). The mosque is of course lovely to see and the area outside the mosque which is enclosed.
My friend took me to the morning prayer. I wasn't expecting that much of crowed in this early morning before the sunrise. People from all over the country were there to be blessed by one of the companions of the prophet, I was told. The lovely breakfast we had after the prayer was also a good memory.
Have you ever felt a smell of a miracle?if not, go to the Eyup Sultan Mosk. it's in the air, everyone is in mood of meeting miracle…
Very important mosque to be ,in fact it is considered one of the most important spot for Muslim visitors who are coming to Turkey from all over the world visited then have a cup of authentic turkish tea at pierre lotti cafe on top of the hill to get a magnificent view of the golden horn at sunset.
it's so far from old city and crowded on friday. after your visit to mosque take a turkish tea at pierre loti coffee house. it's just above the mosque with a beautiful scenery. also don't forget to hop on cable car for more beautiful view.