Istanbul Trip, April 2007 - Eyüp Sultan Camii (Eyüp Sultan Mosque)

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is the holiest mosque in Istanbul and it is one of the holiest in the world. It is situated outside the historical Walls of Constantinople, near the Golden Horn, on the European side of İstanbul.

According to Wiki:

It was built in 1458 and is the first mosque which was constructed by the Ottoman Turks following their conquest of Constantinople (İstanbul) in 1453. The mosque rises on the spot where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (Turkish: Eyüp Sultan), the standard-bearer of Prophet Mohammed, died during the Arab assault on Constantinople in 670. His tomb is greatly venerated by the Muslims and attracts many pilgrims.

The area surrounding the mosque is one of the more conservative areas in Istanbul. All local women are veiled and men are also wearing religious clothing.

We paid a visit to the tomb of the Eyup Sultan. Outside the tomb, we spoke to a man who has just retired. He lives round the around and he visits the mosque daily. He has previously lived in the US and it is interesting to hear his view.

In front of one of the entrances.

Look at the tile work!

The courtyard