About this experience
Every mosque in Istanbul is a separate story. Behind the construction of Muslim prayer houses are someone's destinies, and the past is hidden in their walls just like in corners with old houses. Through me, Uskudar will share with you legends and stories passed down from mouth to mouth, to captivate you with its aesthetics and authenticity. You will stroll on the Asian side, discover Ottoman architecture, and drink Turkish coffee while gazing at the Bosphorus.
What to Expect
Kaleidoscope of Istanbul Mosques
From the Asian shore of Istanbul, you will admire the famous Maiden's Tower and hear all versions of the legends about its foundation. And then, after enjoying this picturesque view, we will wander through the streets of Uskudar to the old mosques. The Ayazma Mosque will impress you with its decoration, you will examine its frescoes, birdhouse, and old Ottoman constructions. You will learn which of the Uskudar mosques was the first on the Asian side of Istanbul after the city was taken by Muslims. While you explore it, I will definitely tell you how an architect, close to the Byzantine Palaeologian dynasty, unexpectedly converted to Islam and was later executed. I will introduce you to the history of Kara Davud Pasha, known as the 'sultan's killer', and then show you the mosque of the daughter of the Magnificent Sultan on the Bosphorus shore and reveal the secret that its servants left for future generations.
Tales of the Past
Uskudar is full of incredible legends and facts. I will take you to the mausoleum of a famous spiritual teacher with an amazing destiny. Throughout his life, he saw six sultans and every Monday, in any weather, he swam across the Bosphorus to preach in the Blue Mosque. His abode was shown many times in the TV series *The Magnificent Century* - today people come there every day to make a wish. In the present library - in the former building of a Muslim court, where we will also go - I will tell you about the fate of a sultan who conquered Istanbul. At the end of our journey through old Uskudar, we will visit an authentic cafe overlooking the Bosphorus to enjoy aromatic Turkish coffee.
Organizational Details
☕ Coffee is not included in the excursion price.
🕌 Please bring scarves for your head (for women) and comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put on, as shoes are not allowed in the mosque.
⏳ If desired, the excursion can be extended and you can visit:
- a walk directly to the Maiden's Tower;
- Valide Atik Mosque, built by the great architect Suleiman the Magnificent;
- to the hill overlooking the city;
- the summer palace of the sultans in the style of 'Ottoman Baroque'.
