During my time wandering Istanbul in 2007, I spent much of my time on foot just exploring. The Nuruosmaniye Complex is noted for its “Ottoman Baroque” architecture, something that I was oblivious to at the time. Yet, my first visit to a mosque is the key property to this serial nomination, so I remember it well. The Mosque is subtly wondrous, it was particularly memorable because we were completely alone, even the lights were largely turned off, though light filtered down from high windows. It did not matter, some designs and art can do that.

Frankly, this first mosque I visited awed me in ways most churches never will. Where as so many churches are often dark and foreboding, this house of worship was filled with natural light. Countless bulbs strung across the interior of the mosque easily brought to mind just how brilliantly lit the space must be during prayer. After strolling the area, which is a vague memory at this point, the mosque stood out as special and something explored almost secretly. What more is there to see in Istanbul after the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, well I learned early in my trip, quite alot!

Preferable Extension

I am pleased to see this nomination, but I am unsure about a few particulars. Is this not an extension? Its very close to the major inscribed areas of the Historic Areas of Istanbul WHS. Istanbul has such a rich history, I would be excited to the current world heritage boundaries expand to include the Nuruosmaniye Complex.

Flickr Album (Istanbul)