The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is the national mosque of Turkey and sits in the heart of Istanbul. The mosque is called, “The Blue Mosque,” because of the blue tiles that line the inside walls and ceilings. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but it is believed to be in the early 17th century. The mosque is not blue on the outside, but the inside is extremely detailed with the blue tile work. The outside of the mosque is still a spectacle worth seeing. The Blue Mosque is one of the major tourist attractions in Istanbul. It is free to enter the mosque, but there are clothing requirements for men and women. During hours of prayer, the mosque is not open to the public.
