Istanbul, Türkiye
High on a pine-forested hill on the Asian side of Istanbul sits Çamlıca Tepesi, a cherished landmark entwined with daily city life. At its peak, the Çamlıca Mosque rises in gleaming white stone with cool blue accents, its grand dome and six elegant minarets now a striking new symbol for Turkey’s most populous city. Completed within the past ten years, this impressive ensemble was built from a vision to unite Turkey’s rich Islamic tradition with a forward-looking spirit.
The mosque is the largest in Turkey, welcoming crowds of tens of thousands. What makes it especially remarkable, however, is the creative team behind it: Bahar Mizrak and Hayriye Gül Tutu, two female architects who brought original thinking to every part of the design. The result is a skilful blend of classical Ottoman motifs with modern influences, creating a place that feels both rooted and refreshingly contemporary. It is no coincidence that the six minarets symbolise the main pillars of Islam and a pivotal era in Turkish history, while the expansive dome, surrounded by smaller domes, celebrates the beauty of unity in diversity.
But the Çamlıca complex is much more than a place of prayer. The centre invites all visitors to explore Turkish culture – inside, you will find a museum focused on Islamic civilisations, a light-filled art gallery with Turkish and international works, a spacious, state-of-the-art library, and a conference hall equipped for major events. The entire site makes use of modern green technology, from solar panels to advanced rainwater collection, seamlessly blending progress with tradition.
Çamlıca Tepesi is a beloved spot for its airy parks, lively cafés and unrivalled views – perfect for family gatherings, unforgettable wedding photos, and panoramic vistas that take in the Bosphorus, the storied Golden Horn, and Istanbul’s spectacular skyline. Its vibrant, inviting atmosphere is a reflection of the city itself: steeped in history, open to the world, and always moving forward.
Listen to this and other guides in app
