Semsi Pasha Mosque, Istanbul

Built in 1580 by famous Imperial Architect, Mimar Sinan, the single-domed 艦emsi Pasha Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman design. Although rather small in size compared to other of Sinan's creations, it is one of the most attractive constructions in the city, its scenic waterfront setting making it a popular spot for visitors. For those who love architecture, the transition between seashore, pier, and the qibla wall is seamless and fantastic.

The tomb of the Grand Vizier for whom the mosque was constructed, 艦emsi Pasha, is located on the grounds, in a private cemetery adjacent to a pretty garden. Furthermore, the precinct is enclosed by an L-shaped madrasa where people come to study and research, and a seawall with grill-windows to the north, giving the impression that one is in a picture gallery looking at framed Bosphorus seascapes.

Interestingly enough, 艦emsi Pasha specifically asked for a place where birds will not fly, and consequently the mosque 鈥� located at the intersection of winds coming from the north and south 鈥� has earned a reputation of being "bird-free". Due to the shape of the minaret, it is also known as "the Asparagus Mosque" among locals.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Istanbul. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Semsi Pasha Mosque
Sight Location: Istanbul, Turkey (See walking tours in Istanbul)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Asian Side and Bosphorus Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Istanbul, Turkey

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Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles

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