Blue Mosque
368 reviews
October 9, 2024
The always crowded Sultanahmet Mosque, which gives its name to the historical district of Istanbul, is at the top of foreign "must-see places in Istanbul" lists. If you ask me, there are more aesthetic mosques in Istanbul, especially Rüstem Pasha and Ortaköy Mosques, but of course, the Sultanahmet Mosque has a completely different weight with its place in history and the city skyline. Sultan Ahmet I, who had the mosque built, wanted to do exactly this: to leave his mark on Istanbul with an imposing mosque that would be visible from all over Istanbul.
Thus, the only mosque with 6 minarets in the Ottoman Empire was built. It is decorated from top to bottom with more than 20 thousand Iznik tiles. These tiles are the reason why foreigners call this mosque "Blue Mosque". When the mosque was first built, it was met with a lot of reaction both at home and abroad. The people are upset that the state coffers are being emptied with unnecessary expenses, and the Muslim world is being flooded with the world's only mosque with 6 minarets in the Kaaba. So much so that the Sultan had to build a 7th minaret for the mosque in the Kaaba.
Sultan Ahmet I, who came to the throne at the age of 14 and wanted a mosque built in his name at the age of 19, wanted this mosque to be built in his name to be a mosque that would be visible from all over Istanbul. In addition, since Ahmet I wanted the art aspect of this mosque to be at the forefront as well as architecture, he made an agreement with Architect Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa, who was both an architect and a mother-of-pearl master. Mehmet Agha was aware that his work would compete with two important giants such as Suleymaniye and Hagia Sophia. This sweet competition resulted in the Sultanahmet Mosque, where art and liveliness are visible at every point.
We know that in the early 17th century, when the social complex was built, the economic power of the Ottoman Empire was greatly reduced, there were territorial losses, and rebellions began in Anatolia. You can imagine how much such a large structure cost the state in such a painful period. Moreover, the Sultanahmet Mosque was built with money from the state treasury, not from war spoils. This caused public reaction.
The mosque, arasta and hünkar pavilion sections of the building, which was built as a social complex between 1590-1617, were opened with a ceremony. The construction of other buildings continued until 1920. According to a rumor, on the day of the foundation laying, the sultan himself filled his skirt with stones and helped the workers. When Ahmet I died in 1617 at the age of 27, his tomb was built and he was buried here.
Sultanahmet Mosque also has a sensational side. Throughout history, Hagia Sophia wanted to surpass the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem, and Suleymaniye wanted to surpass Hagia Sophia. At the end of this competition, it was decided that the Sultanahmet Mosque would surpass Hagia Sophia only, so as not to disrespect its ancestors, and the mosque was built with 6 minarets, unlike any other in the Ottoman Empire. However, these 6 minarets added much magnificence to it and caused some conflicts. This situation, which was considered disrespectful to the mosque in the Kaaba, which had 6 minarets at that time, ended when Sultan Ahmet I added a 7th minaret to the mosque in the Kaaba.
According to another rumor, Ahmet I wanted to have the minarets of the mosque made of gold. However, since this decision would exceed the state's budget, Architect Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa pretended to understand the word "gold" as "six" and built the mosque with 6 minarets.
3
March 6
Amazing and very calm place.
If you have a time when transfer, use bus from airport to city center. From city center you can reach there by tram. Buy transport card from ATM. Be careful from persons who offer to help to buy a card for you. Learn from youtube how to buy and do it yourself
2
December 13, 2024
Amazing
April 26
Despite the restoration work (which is almost always going on there), the atmosphere remains incredible. The architecture is amazing: majestic domes, delicate murals, incredible play of light inside.
It is very convenient that admission is free, but you need to respect the rules of the visit — take off your shoes, women wear a headscarf. Everything is organized very well: there are places for changing shoes, the carpet is constantly being vacuumed.
It's definitely worth visiting here in the morning — fewer tourists, quieter, and you can truly experience the grandeur and tranquility of this place. For me, the Blue Mosque is a symbol of Istanbul, which must be seen at least once in my life.
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April 13
The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is one of Istanbul's most impressive architectural masterpieces. Built in the 17th century, it combines the grandeur of Ottoman architecture and deep historical symbolism.
A walk around the mosque in Sultanahmet Park leaves unforgettable emotions. The view of the minarets reflected in the sunset rays and the sound of the call to prayer create a sense of immersion in history. Inside, the dome's scale (23.5 meters in diameter) and the elegance of the details are striking, from mosaics to carpets donated by believers.
Combine a visit with a guided tour of the Old Town: Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the ancient hippodrome are within walking distance.
To complete the experience, stay in one of the hotels nearby, for example, the HaciBayramHotel with a terrace and a view of the mosque. The Blue Mosque is a must-see for everyone who visits Istanbul. This is not just a religious monument, but a living history where the past and present are intertwined under domes decorated with stars.
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March 31
In addition to its religious role, the Blue Mosque is valued for its stunning beauty and historical significance. The construction of this mosque was the culmination of the classical period of Ottoman architecture. The Blue Mosque was opened only last year after a large-scale restoration, which took more than five years to complete.
The construction of the Blue Mosque was carried out between 1609 and 1616 at the behest of the 14th Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. The main goals of the construction were the intention to demonstrate the greatness of the Ottoman Empire after the signing of an unfavorable treaty with Austria and to appease Allah. The location for the new mosque was chosen on the former Constantinople Hippodrome, which now occupies Sultanahmet Square, the name of which was given by the mosque that inherited the Sultan's name. The Blue Mosque was designed by Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, a student of the famous Ottoman architect Sinan. This mosque became his latest and most famous creation.
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April 5
The Blue Mosque is a real pearl of Istanbul! Giant domes, graceful minarets and thousands of ceramic Iznik tiles with floral patterns create a magical atmosphere. The play of light through the stained glass windows, the peace and harmony of architecture are fascinating. Be sure to take a look at the courtyard and enjoy the view of Sultanahmet Square. Majestic, spiritual and incredibly beautiful! 🕌💙✨
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April 14
Review of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Visiting the Blue Mosque was one of the most vivid impressions of my trip to Istanbul! This is a truly majestic structure that impresses with its beauty both outside and inside.
The mosque's exterior is impressive with its six minarets, which makes it unique in Istanbul. The location on the shores of the Bosphorus creates a stunning architectural ensemble, the mosque looks especially beautiful at sunset, when its domes and minarets are painted in golden tones.
The interior of the mosque is a real work of art. Thousands of handmade tiles create a unique blue pattern, from which the mosque got its name. The huge central dome, decorated with elegant mosaics, is especially impressive.
The atmosphere inside is very peaceful and calm. Despite the large number of tourists, there is always a special atmosphere of awe and silence. It is important to observe the dress code: for women - a headscarf and a long skirt, for men – long trousers.
Practical advice:
The best time to visit is early morning or late evening.
Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Photography is allowed, but without flash
It is recommended to bring a change of shoes.
There is convenient parking and a metro station nearby.
The location of the mosque is very convenient – in the historical center of Istanbul, next to St. Sophia Cathedral. From here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the bay and the city.
It is important to know that the mosque is open around the clock, but access may be restricted during prayers. I recommend planning a visit between prayers to enjoy the beauty without haste.
The Blue Mosque is a must-visit place in Istanbul that is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. This is not just a religious object, but a real masterpiece of Ottoman architecture that will not leave anyone indifferent!
Rating: 5 out of 5
P.S. Be sure to include a visit to the Blue Mosque in your itinerary around Istanbul – this is one of the symbols of the city that you need to see at least once in your life!
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January 27
One of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul. An impressive building with clean, salted energy. The mosque was built using expensive stone, beautiful marble and thousands of ceramic tiles, hand-painted with white and blue paint. There are floral ornaments on the tiles – tulips. The imposing dome stands 43 meters above Istanbul. It is decorated with surahs from the Koran and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. The Blue Mosque has 260 stained glass windows through which sunlight pours – at these moments, the mosque becomes an illustration of an oriental fairy tale.
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3
April 15
A very grandiose and beautiful building! When you're inside, you feel all the greatness and power. Thousands of tourists from all over the world are inside at the same time, and by the way, it's not stuffy inside. It's clean and cozy inside, and everyone takes off their shoes at the entrance. One can feel the unity of people from all countries of the world, different religions and nations. And by the way, there are no metal detectors at the entrance, no frames or hand-held ones. Everything is on full trust. Admission is free! I recommend everyone to visit.
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December 15, 2024
A beautiful majestic place. There are stands around the perimeter promoting Islam. It was informative, though, and something was controversial for me. Still, well done, how everything was presented.
Everyone takes off their shoes. Everyone is equal in this;) you can enter at the permitted hours and look with all your eyes. It is good if there is a guidebook or other source of information. I read it and immediately saw it !
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April 4
It's beautiful, atmospheric, and there are a lot of people! An ancient mosque, it's interesting to plunge into the centuries-old history, but we liked sulimanye more! The mosque is about the same, and the territory in sulimanje is cooler! And there are fewer people!
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April 24
One of the main attractions of Istanbul, the second name Sultan Ahmet, was built under Sultan Ahmed I in the 17th century, located on the square of the same name (the former Roman Hippodrome). Unlike St. Sophia, foreign tourists can enter the Blue Mosque for free. Other attractions near the mosque include the Hurrem Sultan Baths, the Ibrahim Pasha House and the Mosaic Museum (part of the Roman Emperors' palace complex).It is better to plan the time of visiting the Blue Mosque in advance, since the admission of visitors is carried out according to the entrance sessions.
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1
December 29, 2024
The main attraction of Istanbul! Majestic Sofia! The child entered the 1st floor (which is only for Turkish citizens)- a local married couple spent it, they took it as their own, I really liked it! And the people in Turkey are wonderful, kind, responsive, and loving to children!!!!
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4
8
January 11
The place is great, atmospheric, with a great history, a must-visit while I was there for free in January 2025, but it's clear that they will soon make it paid, I'm not naked in the ai mafia and top cops, because the prices are unrealistic and they let you go around in a circle in the truest sense of the word.
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November 25, 2024
Visiting this mosque is absolutely free, both men and women can enter it, but an important issue is compliance with the dress code, that is, you can not enter with bare body parts. There are some kind of skirts and shawls at the entrance. My sister and I always carry pareos and headscarves with us, as there are mosques that do not have such an option. We go not only to the famous mosques, but to all the ones along the way during the walk. There are a lot of them in Istanbul, they are mostly ancient and with a history, each of them is good in its own way. But each of these mosques was created in the image and likeness of their ancient ancestor, which was originally a temple - Ay-Sophia.
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1
March 23
Sooooo beautiful mosque!!!
Free to visit
Impressive from the outside, fascinating from the inside!!!
Tourists are treated calmly here. Women only need to remove their hair - they can give them a headscarf. As it is, you take off your shoes, get comfortable on the carpet and listen to prayer, looking at the mosaic.
The surrounding area is also very beautiful.
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March 19
The mosque struck with its grandiose size! It's very beautiful inside! We didn't get inside the first time, because we came during prayer. But we went for a walk and came back. There is a timetable at the entrance when the mosque is open or closed to tourists. We were very impressed!
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February 16
Beautiful mosque, impressive! It's elegant on the outside, but inside it's an oriental fairy tale. They went inside for free, looked quietly, without disturbing the people who came to pray. It's a beautiful place!
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3
February 15
It's a very beautiful mosque.You rest your soul.Despite the huge number of tourists, there is enough space for everyone!
It's convenient to get there.Clean territory.We get very beautiful photos both inside and outside the mosque.
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3
February 9
A very beautiful, huge mosque. Beautiful area around. It is under reconstruction all the time, it is practically impossible to get inside. The courtyard and the outside are certainly impressive
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March 7
It is located close to all major attractions. A beautiful building inside and majestic outside. But work is underway in the courtyard. Admission is free.
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2
January 13
A very beautiful, large mosque. The free admission is very well organized, you can go in and see everything. The interior of the mosque is admirable.
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1
March 30
My favorite mosque in Istanbul! It is so light and beautiful that you can stay in it for hours! It should be borne in mind that women can enter the mosque only with their heads covered, in a long skirt or in wide, non-tight trousers or jeans. If your clothes are unsuitable for visiting a mosque, you will be given both scarves and skirts. Admission to this mosque is free. The mosque is closed to tourists during prayer.
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March 19
The Blue Mosque is a different story.
On our previous visit,
or rather a "raid" from Alanya for a day,
we did not manage to see it from the inside, it was September 2022
and it was under reconstruction (
And even in November 2024, the reconstruction did not end,
but we managed to go in and see it with our own eyes, not in the photo.
It is majestic, the first mosque in Istanbul,
which is also one of the main symbols of the city and Turkey itself.
She…
It was built in difficult times for the Ottoman Empire,
The temple embodies the interweaving of Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles, and today the building is recognized as an exemplary masterpiece of world architecture.
👆
Today, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, whose construction history is very ambiguous, is the main temple of the metropolis, accommodating up to 10,000 parishioners,
but this is all from the Internet and the records of smart people. ✌️…
And if in our opinion,
Really, really so many people will enter, and if desired, even more.
Actually, just imagine,
what a big deal it was for believers.
Admission is free, free
- provided there is a headscarf on the girls' heads and (minus) shoes on their feet,
and yet,
in all mosques,
they are very friendly to Christians and to all tourists, no matter what religion,
and
believe me, there are a lot of tourists, including Muslims,
and this is the middle of November (like out of season),
but there are few Chinese, which is surprising)
Yes,
Istanbul for our family has become a huge contribution to the treasury of emotions, but no more than our Kaliningrad or Elbrus.
Travel and share your impressions
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2
April 19
The majestic mosque, 6 towering minarets, and blue tiles inside create unique lighting. There are a lot of visitors, but everything is perfectly organized. I recommend
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February 13
You need to see this beauty with your own eyes at least once in your life, there is a beautiful territory around the mosque where you can walk, everything is neatly gentrified.
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April 2
It is considered the 1st most important mosque in Istanbul. The mosque's architecture combines two styles — classical Ottoman and Byzantine, which is reflected in a large number of arches and minarets. The courtyard of the Blue Mosque is the same size as the mosque itself. The courtyard walls are decorated with arcades.
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November 15, 2024
The mosque simply amazes with its beauty and grandeur. The atmosphere there is special, as if you are transported back several centuries. You can look at patterns and ornaments endlessly, every corner breathes history. It feels like Suleiman himself is about to appear around the corner. It is definitely worth visiting there to get into the spirit of that time.
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March 27
A must-see attraction. If you come in the evening, especially on weekdays, there are very few people and you can safely watch everything. Admission is free.
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July 5, 2024
A visit to the Blue Mosque in June 2024 is a delightful immersion in history and culture. The architectural beauty of the building, immersed in light, is striking in its elegance. Historical arches and domes rise, reminding of the greatness of the Ottoman Empire. This place is a real pearl of Istanbul, where every detail is filled with the grandeur of the past and pious silence.
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4
February 2
It's a beautiful place. Recently after the restoration. But only a small part of the territory is open to the public. So there's not much to see there. It's good that it's free for now, for 2025.
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January 12
Nicely. Monumental. But, for an amateur. It is clear that it is a very ancient structure, but there is no such direct chic-luster beauty. In this regard, the Dubai Zayed Mosque is much more amazing.
It didn't go in.
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December 11, 2024
I have wanted to visit Istanbul for a very long time. This October, my dream came true. I flew in just for one day (well, at least that's a negligible amount for this city!). Of course, I visited the Blue Mosque among other attractions. The beauty and grandeur of this structure is simply amazing! The mosque does not fit into the camera, it is so huge! I recommend everyone to visit!
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3
April 26
It was in December 2024. In a very depressed state. I caught myself thinking that I am very comfortable here, even though I am of a different faith. I sat there, thinking about my own things, and I felt better. A pleasant impression, beautiful architecture, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful even with a large crowd of people. I want to go back and experience the same state, but under different circumstances.
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March 9
Beautiful, ancient mosque of Istanbul. You can get in for free. The main thing is that the women should have their heads covered, I was wearing a hoodie hood, they let me through without any problems. Also, it is mandatory to take off your shoes at the entrance, I took them with me and carried them right in my hands, but for convenience, you can take a package in advance) She is very beautiful both inside and out. The entrance floor is paved with marble, which was a bit slippery after the rain.
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3
April 14
A must-visit place in Istanbul!❤️
Women need a headscarf to enter. If there is none, they will give you a "public" one. Legs and shoulders should be covered. You need to take off your shoes at the entrance, there are shelves where you can put them. Many carry it with them. I left it on the shelves, it wasn't stolen, and I didn't see any other barefoot people))
The mosque has its own aura, which is difficult to convey.
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1
December 21, 2024
One of the largest mosques in Istanbul, the brainchild of architect Sinan. There is greatness and splendor inside. While the entrance is free, it is mandatory to visit.
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April 11
Very beautiful, active.
There are sometimes restrictions for tourists, as I understand it, during the prayer of the locals. But in general, this does not interfere, you can wait a little and then go in to see all this beauty inside. And you can always approach and inspect the outside.
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December 1, 2024
Very beautiful. A must-visit. There are a lot of people. A headscarf is required for women. You will need to take off your shoes at the entrance. Keep an eye on the services, then visiting and photographing are prohibited
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September 20, 2023
Packed with a rich history of Topkapi. It is located on the cape that separates the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. Therefore, the views are fantastic. There is a whole complex of mosques, museums, parks, gardens, libraries, etc. Beautiful architecture, rich decoration, a unique collection of treasures. It was in this palace that the main celebrations, the Sultan's accession to the throne, and religious events took place. There are many museum exhibitions. From weapons to various household items, sultan's clothes, Topkapi dagger, Kashichki Diamond, etc. In short, something like that. We spent the whole day. I liked everything. The food here is expensive, you can bring a snack with you. Entrance tickets are not expensive. I invite you to visit Sultan Suleiman))).
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4
January 28
This mosque was built at the very beginning of the 17th century during the reign of Ahmet I in the Ottoman Empire. A huge, airy, stunningly beautiful mosque, in which people still pray. Magnificent wall paintings, large spherical and hemispherical domes built of brick. You need to see this with your own eyes. An impressive monument of oriental architecture.
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2
June 27, 2024
An amazing mosque with a huge territory where you can walk, the history of this mosque is also very interesting, it is located near the Fatih district (almost all mosques are within walking distance)
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1
April 14, 2024
When in Istanbul, we always find time to go to the Blue Mosque. Greatness and tranquility capture the heart. It's worth standing in line. Thoughts become clearer and a restless mind finds peace.
The Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Mosque, is the first mosque in Istanbul. It has six minarets: four, as usual, on the sides, and two slightly less high ~ on the outer corners. It is considered an outstanding example of Islamic and world architecture.
As in any mosque, I take off my shoes, and try to cover my head with a new scarf or handkerchief bought at the entrance. There were always a lot of people, especially at Friday prayers.
Visiting the Blue Mosque is not just a tour of a historical place, it is an immersion into the world of spiritual reflection and a deep understanding of the cultural heritage of this land.
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1
November 29, 2024
There are too many people, you need to be prepared for a possible crush or crush. If you are with a child, if you need amenities, and you are somewhere inside, then most likely you will need at least 10-15 minutes. I can't say that the interior decoration is more striking, for example, St. Isaac's Cathedral.
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April 19
It is a very beautiful and majestic place, take a black bag with you to put your shoes there, you must take off your shoes. You can put your shoes on the shelf there without a bag, but you can carry them with you in a bag.
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March 9
I love Istanbul, I lived in a hotel near the Blue Mosque, near the Basilica, and Sofia, as well as the cool Laleli market, Grand Bazaar.....
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February 18
Very beautiful! Monumental. And they also gave me a Koran in Russian. I recommend everyone to visit this mosque.
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February 23
We visited this mosque, but we did not feel complete delight. In order to visit the mosque, you need to guess the time, not to get into the main thing during the prayer period. Tourists are allowed in on Fridays from 2:30 p.m. There are a lot of people because it is free.
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November 12, 2024
The Blue Mosque is Istanbul's first mosque in importance, as well as an outstanding example of Islamic architecture. Beauty is not only outside, but also inside.
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