This elegant baroque structure was designed by Nikoğos Balyan, one of the architects of Dolbabahçe Palace, and was built for Sultan Abdül Mecit I between 1853 and 1855. Today, the modern Bosphorus Bridge looms behind it, providing a fabulous photo opportunity for those wanting to illustrate İstanbul's 'old meets new' character. This mosque was being restored at the time of research.
Within the mosque hang several masterful examples of Arabic calligraphy executed by Abdül Mecit, who was an accomplished calligrapher.
The mosque fronts onto İskele Meydanı, the hub of this former fishing village and home to a pretty fountain and waterfront cafes. On weekends the square and surrounding streets host an unremarkable but popular street market.
