Ali Pertek Mosque

When viewed from the sea, the majestic Rumeli Fortress, built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1452, and the elegant minaret of this small mosque can be seen together against the backdrop of the Bosphorus. At first glance, the mosque, which is noticed for its modest size among the fortress's massive stone walls, complements the cultural heritage of the Bosphorus in harmony with the historical mansions surrounding it and the silhouette of the fortress. On the Rumeli Fortress shores that you arrive at over the blue waters of the Bosphorus, the presence of this historic mosque evokes in visitors a desire to see traces of the period leading to the conquest of Istanbul as well as to experience the unique beauty of the Bosphorus.

History

Ali Pertek Mosque was built in the 16th century by Ali Bey, known as Pertek, a sailor who lived during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent in the Ottoman period. The exact year of construction of this mosque, which is also referred to by the name Hamam Mosque in historical records, is unknown because the original inscription has not survived to the present day. Located in the center of the Rumelihisarı neighborhood, which was one of the Ottoman coastal security points at the time it was constructed, the mosque held significant functions in both military and civilian life due to its proximity to the fortress and its adjacency to the coastal road.

Ali Pertek Mosque, which was taken into maintenance over time, underwent comprehensive repairs in 1763. However, by the 20th century, due to a decrease in congregation and structural issues, it was closed for worship in 1937; the mosque, which remained neglected for a long time, fell into ruin during this process. Thanks to the emphasis placed on Istanbul's historical heritage, the mosque was restored and reopened for worship in 1960. Today, Ali Pertek Mosque is an active place of worship and continues to be used by local residents and visitors.

Explore By Yacht

One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the Istanbul Strait is to plan a private trip by renting a yacht. While cruising along the European side coast with your private yacht, you can observe the grandeur of Rumeli Fortress and the historical texture of the nearby Ali Pertek Mosque from the sea. As you slowly glide in front of the castle's walls, capturing these historical structures with the sounds of waves and gentle breezes provides a unique experience. While cruising this part of the strait with your yacht, you will enjoy the privilege of being intertwined with history in a calm and personal environment, unlike crowded tour boats.

If you want to make the most of your time during your Bosphorus tour, rent a yacht and create your own route. You can approach the shore of Rumelihisarı as a stop on your private yacht trip, and if you wish, you can dock at nearby piers to go ashore and closely visit the mosque and the castle. While cruising with your yacht, you can also see other historical mansions like the Perili Köşk from the sea, allowing you to immerse yourself in Istanbul's architectural richness that spans from the past to the present. A yacht trip at your own pace will provide you with freedom and comfort while exploring this unique corner of the city.

Rented a yacht on the Bosphorus is an ideal option to discover hidden beauties like Ali Pertek Mosque. Going beyond guided tours and enjoying the Bosphorus on your own private boat will make your visit to Istanbul unforgettable. If you rent a yacht, you can admire the historical sites on both sides of the Bosphorus from any point you choose; you can enjoy the mesmerizing reflections of the fortress and mosque silhouettes on the water at sunset. Thus, by experiencing the Rumeli Fortress and Ali Pertek Mosque, which are considered the pearls of the Bosphorus, from the most impressive perspective, you will witness the city’s history and scenery firsthand.