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Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque overlooks the Bosphorus and was built in 1853 by the order of Sultan Abdülmecid I.

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Ortaköy Mosque, also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Camii, is a striking Ottoman mosque located in the Ortaköy neighbourhood of Istanbul, right on the Bosphorus waterfront. It was commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I and completed in 1856. The mosque is renowned for its elegant blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neo-Classical architectural styles, which was quite innovative for its time in the Ottoman Empire.

The mosque’s location is one of its most captivating features, offering spectacular views of the Bosphorus Bridge, making it one of the most photographed sites in Istanbul. Its façade is adorned with intricate carvings, while the interior is equally impressive, featuring a grand central dome, a beautiful prayer hall, and stunning marble and woodwork. The large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a serene atmosphere.

Ortaköy Mosque is an important cultural and religious landmark in Istanbul and is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Its proximity to trendy cafés and shops in the Ortaköy district adds to its charm, making it a lively area for both spiritual reflection and social gatherings. The mosque is a perfect example of the Ottoman Empire’s artistic and architectural adaptability to Western influences during the 19th century.

Nearby Attractions

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Ortakoy neighbourhood

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Bosphorus Bridge

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Ciragan Kempinski Palace

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Related Tours

Dolmabahce Palace & Ortakoy: Private Full-Day Istanbul City Tour

Enjoy a private, full-day tour of some of Istanbul’s grandest buildings. On your private tour, you will:

Enjoy the comforts of a private vehicle throughout the tour, including hotel pick-up and drop-off;
Be accompanied by a private tour guide, who will guide you throughout the day;
Begin with a guided visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace of the 19th century, with tickets included;
Then, explore one of the oft-missed residences of the former Sultan at Yildiz Park, with tickets included;
Rest during your lunch break along the water in the Ortaköy district, where your guide will recommend different lunch spots for you;
In the afternoon, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the charming Ortaköy neighborhood, known for its stunning views and tiny streets;
Lastly, visit Ortaköy’s Mosque, which is one of the city’s most recognizable sites;
After, your driver-guide will take you back to your hotel.

See some of the best sites throughout Istanbul with the comfort of a private driver-guide, navigating you through the city and in each of the sites included. Your tour begins with hotel pick-up, and from there you’ll be whisked away to the stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, known for its mix of architectural styles, including Rococo, Neoclassical, and modern Ottoman. See the way the styles all come together, as your guide points out each of the intricate details hidden in plain sight.

From there, your guide will take you to Yildiz Park, another residence of the sultans, which is often missed by travelers. You’ll be wowed by the spectacular pavilions and sprawling green spaces –one of the city’s best-kept secrets. After, your guide will take you to the Ortaköy district, where you’ll stop to enjoy lunch along the waterfront at a place your guide recommends based on your preferences. In the afternoon, stretch your legs as you enjoy a walking tour through the district’s narrow streets, hidden passageways, and many cafes. Your last stop will be Ortaköy’s Mosque – one of the skyline’s most recognizable features. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide will take you back to your hotel, where you can rest after your full day of touring.