Istanbul, Turkey
Büyük Çamlıca Camii, on the Asian side of Istanbul, rises from the city’s highest hill with sweeping views over the Bosphorus and beyond. Opened in early spring of two thousand nineteen, this massive mosque is the largest ever built in modern Turkish history, welcoming tens of thousands for prayer, reflection, or to explore its diverse cultural offerings.
Planning for the mosque started at the beginning of the twenty-first century, with a public design competition that drew heated debate over the future of the historic and green Çamlıca Hill. The final project brought together elements from classical Ottoman architecture—especially the legacy of Mimar Sinan, a celebrated master from the sixteenth century—and innovative engineering focused on earthquake safety.
The main dome stretches to more than seventy meters high, symbolizing the many nations that have called Istanbul home. Its width—nearly thirty-five meters—pays homage to Istanbul’s famous city code. The mosque features six slender minarets, echoing the six pillars of Islamic faith, with four soaring to over one hundred meters. Each marks the year of a pivotal medieval battle in Turkey’s history.
The creators, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, were two female architects who ensured that women’s needs were considered, adding special entrances, prayer halls, facilities for children, and spaces for ablution.
Beyond worship, this is a vibrant complex where visitors can browse a large museum, well-stocked library, conference spaces, and an art gallery. These facilities position Büyük Çamlıca not only as a center of faith but also as a hub for cultural life in Istanbul.
The mosque’s location gives it a visual connection with the famous Süleymaniye Mosque, creating a new landmark for the modern skyline while reflecting centuries-old traditions. While some praised its bold design and inclusiveness, others called it too monumental for a site known for its natural beauty or questioned the use of public land.
Inside, sunlight streams through stained glass onto blue and white tiles and vast carpets. Thoughtful touches—from the world’s largest crescent finial to gleaming calligraphy—combine old and new, creating a sense of both grandeur and welcome. Every detail, down to earthquake-resilient construction, reflects the spirit of contemporary Istanbul: respectful of history, looking to the future, and open to all.
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