The Eyup Sultan Mosque is the holiest site in Istanbul and one of the most sacred places in the Islamic world.
History
Eyup Sultan Mosque was erected by Mehmet the Conqueror over the tomb of Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyûb (known as Eyup Sultan), the standard bearer for the Prophet Mohammed as well as the last survivor of his inner circle of trusted companions.
It is popularly accepted that while serving as commander of the Arab forces during the siege of 668 to 669, Eyup was killed and buried on the outskirts of the city. One of the conditions of peace after the Arab siege was that the tomb of Eyup be preserved.
The burial site was “discovered” during Mehmet the Conqueror’s siege on the city, although the tomb is mentioned in written accounts as early as the 12th century.
A little village of tombs mushroomed on the spot by those seeking Eyup Sultan’s intervention in the hereafter, and it’s still considered a privilege to be buried in the nearby cemeteries.
The Girding of the Sword ceremony was traditionally held here. In this Ottoman enthronement rite, Osman Gazi’s sword was passed on, maintaining continuity within the dynasty as well as creating a connection with the Turk’s early ideal of Holy War.
What to See
Eyup is a popular spot animated by the small bazaar nearby, crowds relaxing by the spray of the fountains, and little boys in blue and white satin celebrating their impending circumcisions. Unfortunately, it’s a natural magnet for beggars as well.
The baroque mosque replaces the original that was destroyed in the earthquake of 1766, but the real attraction here is the turbe, a sacred burial site that draws masses of pilgrims waiting in line to stand in the presence of the contents of the solid silver sarcophagus or meditate in prayer.
Go here to understand Eyup Ensari's part in Islam, assuming you have a good guild. Great example of Iznik tiles. Cemetery surrounding filled with great stories. Yup, depends on guide. Take the walk up to Pierre Loti Cafe. Uphill all the way, but worth the view.
The moque is wonderful.However the area here is just excellent. Spent an evening here.The shops in the area around here are cheaper than sultanahmed and people are very friendly.
My wife and I visited the mosque just a few days back. She being very religious was overwhelmed with emotions. We were on a guided tour and the guide was so very patient to explain about the history behind, we could literally visualise what might have taken place all those centuries back. It was very satisfying to do a short…
No bathing dress.. They might ask you to leave and come back In between prayer times. So go for a snack, plan a second thing to do instead of visiting a mosque. The sultans palace f e will easily take you several hours because there is so much to see not only the harem.
After having visited the most "touristic" ( it means those most visited) mosques in Istanbul, this place is a real surprise. It's a holy place for muslims, built by a friend of the prophet. This mosque it's a mystic place, an island in the caotic traffic of Istanbul.
I went to Eyup Mosque from Eminonu by the ferry which takes about 40 min to get to the famous cafe Pierre Lotti, as soon I got from the ferry I crossed the road to the Eyup Mosque square it has a few stalls which sells souvenirs and some local gifts.
Enjoy the spirituality of this mosque and also number of shops to purchase islamic gifts, also in the vicinity are graves of other famous companions of prophet Muhammad.
We were disappointed that the renovation work meant that some of the mosque was closed. But it is really worth going to. Visit some of the cemeteries that surround it. And do go on a Sunday, when the place is teeming with little boys dressed up in amazing costumes and visiting with their families before going to be circumcised.
Probably one of the most spiritual places in istanbul where the eyup sultan mosque is adjoined with the tomb of the great companion of the prophet is buried. A once in a lifetime opportunity to do pay respects and do fatihah at the tomb. Unfortunately the tomb itself Is currently closed due to renovations so can't wait to come back…
We caught the local ferry and sailed up the Golden Horn to Eyup and the Sultan Mosque. The day we travelled there it appeared to be a local festival or day of religious importance. It was very busy with local people and a service was taking place when we were there. We were therefore unable to enter the Mosque.