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.
Went there with few friends to offer Fateha.
Small, clean ….not crowded but soooooo peaceful.
A few renovations were going on but trust me you can feel the energy from that place.
I wanted to just stay there but had to catch up with my other friends.
I don't know why but I had goose bumps while I was there….
Best way to reach here is to first visit Miniaturk in the morning. Spend 2-3 hours there. Walk into the nearby waterfront. Hire a 3-4 seater power boat to Eyup Sultan. These boats go only there and nowhere else. This short ride is very enjoyable.
In contrast to the jingoism of Fatih mosque (the "conqueror's" mosque), this is a place for happy occasions (circumscisions, weddings) and for those with a need, the sick. All sorts of people come here, and there's a bit of a festive atmosphere outside.
The facilities are undergoing refurbishment. The construction does not seem to bother the locals who continue to flood the Mosque. The grave is visible through a window and the mosque remains open.
The walk uphill took us through a different part of the city. The mosque was beautiful as was the surrounding gardens and cemetery.
From Eminonu tram station walk toward the Calata bridge pass all the boat fish hotel then pass the bus stand keep on the shore of the golden horn and you reach the Sehir Haltari Koshk it coast around TL2 on your Istanbul Kart by ferry check their timings, the Mosque is the forth holiest place for Muslim Turks after Mecca…
Visiting the tomb and cami of Ayub al ansari was a truly spritual experience. the view from pierre lote via canle car is awesome. Experienced a truly turkish way of life at the camii.
Eyup Sultan was a spirutually enlightening place but still very busy even though away from the hussle and bussle of main centre of Istanbul. It is kept immacutley clean and best to visit early morning so to avoid rush. Has a huge graveyard on a hill behind it. Pierre Loti cable car is literally next door almost.
Espescially beautiful if you can be ther for dawn prayers – all the birds join in with a dawn chorus.
If you like to spend time relaxing without noise like Taksim, I highly recommend to go to Eyup Dis. Its so quite with nice gardens and fountains, great place.