Ortaköy Mosque (officially known as Büyük Mecidiye Mosque) is located on the pier square in the Ortaköy district on the shores of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. It is a structure that immediately catches the eye with its elegant architecture.
The view it creates together with the 15 July Martyrs' Bridge rising behind it has become one of Istanbul's most iconic images. Ortaköy Square in front of the mosque is always bustling with cafes, souvenir stalls and famous kumpir sellers, making it a magnet for both local and foreign visitors. Watching this mosque rise from the shore while travelling by boat on the Bosphorus is a breathtaking experience that transports you to a world of dreams.
History of the Ortaköy Mosque
A small mosque was built on the site of the current Ortaköy Mosque in 1721. The current mosque was commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid to beautify the Bosphorus coastline and was completed in 1854. For this reason, the mosque is also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, named after its patron, Abdülmecid. The architect was Nigoğos Balyan, a young member of the famous Balyan family who served in the Ottoman palace for many years. Balyan is known as an architect who designed many important works of the period, such as Dolmabahçe Palace and Mosque.
Since its construction, Ortaköy Mosque has undergone several renovations. The mosque, which was severely damaged in the great earthquake of 1894, was repaired in 1909 and reopened for worship, with its damaged minarets also being renovated. In the 1960s, cracks that formed in the structure led to the foundation being reinforced and the dome being repaired; after restoration, the mosque was reopened in 1969. After undergoing restoration once again following a fire in 1984, Ortaköy Mosque underwent extensive maintenance between 2011 and 2014 and was reopened to visitors in 2014.
Discover the Ortaköy Mosque by Yacht
Bosphorus yacht rental is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover the beauty of the Bosphorus and experience the city from a different perspective. Seeing Ortaköy Mosque from the sea during such a tour offers a completely different perspective compared to those who see it from land. From the deck of the yacht, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the mosque and the bridge behind it, and photograph this iconic silhouette in all its splendour. Moreover, enjoying this view from a spot away from the crowds, on the sea, gives you a special sense of peace and excitement.
Imagine approaching the Ortaköy Mosque while gliding through the waters of the Bosphorus on a yacht. Accompanied by the rhythm of the waves and the breeze of Istanbul, the white stone facade and elegant minarets of the mosque slowly come into view. From the yacht's stable platform, you can examine the mosque's details up close; whether it's the walls glistening under the daytime sun or the silhouette turning crimson at sunset, you can lose yourself in the view. This special journey by yacht allows you to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Bosphorus and the beauty of Ortaköy Mosque together.
To see this unique spot on the Bosphorus in the most impressive way during your trip to Istanbul, rent a yacht and experience the privilege of discovering Ortaköy Mosque from the sea. Far from the crowds on the shore, chart your own course and pass by the mosque, creating an unforgettable memory of Istanbul. Whether it's at sunrise or under the evening city lights, rent a yacht and fully immerse yourself in the magic of Ortaköy Mosque in the heart of the Bosphorus.