The Suleymaniye Mosque was founded by Suleyman the Magnificent and designed by the master architect Sinan.
As well as being a place of worship it included a hospital, soup kitchen, school and bath house and a welfare system that tended to the needs of the poor of the city.
The complex is very worthy of the name magnificent. From the soaring minarets, the peacefulness of the courtyard to the beauty and tranquility of the Mosque's interior.
Not as highly decorated as the Blue Mosque, it is equally impressive with its fine masonary, decorated dome and intricate calligraphy.
The tomb of Suleyman, next to the Mosque, is also worth visiting. Ceramic stars are set into the ceiling overlooking the coffins of Suleyman, his daughter and two of his successors.
Nearest tram stops are Beyazit or Eminonu then a 10 minute walk.
The old soup kitchens for the poor have been converted into a restaurant. Worth a visit just to look.
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