Kuleli Mosque

With its red-painted facade reflecting the wooden aesthetics of Ottoman period architecture and its slender minaret with a single balcony, the mosque is immediately noticeable in the silhouette along the Bosphorus. In harmony with the surrounding trees and the historic Kuleli Military High School in the background, the mosque leaves a calm and impressive first impression on viewers with both its simplicity and the serenity brought by its location. Watching this humble mosque from the boats passing through the Bosphorus is like greeting a temple that silently witnesses the past; the red wooden structure adds an unforgettable color to Istanbul's enchanting view with its reflection on the waters.

History

The Kuleli Mosque was built in 1720 during the reign of Ottoman Sultan III. Ahmed by the then Captain of the Navy (naval commander) Kaymak Mustafa Pasha. Kaymak Mustafa Pasha was the son-in-law of Nevşehirli Damat İbrahim Pasha and contributed such a work to the shores of the Bosphorus during the period known as the Tulip Era. Initially, the mosque had a simpler structure, but in 1837, under the order of Sultan II. Mahmud, a wooden entrance portico (forecourt) was added, along with a special area for the sultans to facilitate their worship. Thus, the mosque began to be expanded in accordance with the architectural tradition of the time and took on its current form.

This historical structure, which was neglected during the Republic period, has regained interest at the end of the 20th century. In the early 1990s, the upper floor of the mosque's narthex was arranged as a women's gallery after a comprehensive renovation. Recently, the restoration of the mosque to its original state started in 2018 and was completed in 2020. Today, the completely renewed Kuleli Mosque continues to serve as a place of worship and remains a cultural heritage admired from outside by local and foreign visitors taking Bosphorus tours.

Explore By Yacht

One of the most enjoyable ways to explore the historical buildings along the Bosphorus is undoubtedly to take advantage of the option of renting a yacht in Istanbul. When you set sail into the deep blue waters of the Bosphorus with your private boat, the pearls along the coast unfold one by one before your eyes. On this delightful route, the Kuleli Mosque will also appear before you in all its beauty. Progressing on the deck of the yacht accompanied by seagull sounds and a gentle breeze, watching the silhouette of the red wooden mosque right by the water from a different angle is an entirely different experience. Many details that may not be noticed from the land – the greenery surrounding the mosque, the fine reflection of the minaret in the water, and the historical high school building behind the structure – are clearly seen during the boat trip. While cruising the Bosphorus by yacht, you can enjoy these moments where history and scenery intertwine and fully photograph this hidden serene corner of Istanbul.

Imagine drifting towards the Kuleli shores while renting a yacht in Istanbul , getting closer to this mosque that appears on the horizon. On this journey where the waves gently kiss the hull of your boat and the breeze of Istanbul caresses your face, the increasingly distinct silhouette of Kuleli Mosque greets you. On a sunny day, the brightness of its red facade reflects over the sea, while in the evening, the silhouette of the mosque takes on a unique beauty with the red hues of sunset. As your yacht passes in front of the mosque, you can listen to the story of this historical structure from your guide, or simply slow down the engine to enjoy the surrounding silence and spiritual atmosphere. Such a Bosphorus tour by renting a yacht allows you to discover the Kuleli Mosque and similar coastal treasures in their most natural forms; afar from the crowds, you will experience both the traces of the past and the unique views of Istanbul right in the middle of the water.

If you want to see this peaceful corner of the Bosphorus in the most special way during your trip to Istanbul, rent a yacht and direct your route to the Kuleli shores of Üsküdar. During a yacht tour that you can plan according to your own schedule, you can pass in front of Kuleli Mosque at your desired pace and take photo breaks. With the freedom of being on the sea, you will have the opportunity to view the mosque from different angles and enjoy the panoramic scenery. Remember, this special journey in the cool waters of the Bosphorus is not just a transportation experience; it is also an adventure that offers the chance to embrace Istanbul's cultural and historical heritage. The admiration and peace you will feel while greeting Kuleli Mosque from the sea will make your memories in the city of Istanbul even more unforgettable.