Fatih Mosque
Fatih Camii
An imperial mosque built by Mehmed II, the Conqueror, on the site of the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, with his tomb in the garden.
Fatih Mosque was built between 1463 and 1470 by Mehmed II, who conquered Constantinople, on the site of the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles. It was the first large imperial mosque complex the Ottoman Empire built in the city. The original building was destroyed in an earthquake in 1766, and it was rebuilt to a new design in 1771. Auxiliary buildings, including a madrasa, still surround it. In the rear courtyard is the tomb of Mehmed II, and Turks often come to pay their respects. The atmosphere here feels more local than at the sights of the Old City. Entry is free, but visits are suspended during prayer times, so dress modestly. Getting there: about a 10-minute walk from the Valens Aqueduct, or take a bus to Fatih.
Opening hours
Open outside prayer times, free admission; mausoleum about 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Aqueduct of Valens
- Zeyrek Mosque (Pantokrator Monastery)
- Şehzade Mosque
- Balat
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Chora Church (Kariye Mosque)
- Rüstem Pasha Mosque
- Grand Bazaar