Hekimoğlu Ali Paşa Mosque
If you’ve read the reviews for the Blue Mosque and still feel unsure—good instinct. It’s overcrowded, half-renovated more often than not, and honestly not the best showcase of Ottoman tile artistry. These lesser-known mosques offer something better: peace, authenticity, and a whole lot of İznik tile magic without the lines.
İznik tiles are hand-painted ceramics known for their rich colors—cobalt blue, emerald, coral red—and complex floral and geometric designs. They defined Ottoman interiors in the 16th century, and you’ll find some of the best examples in these hidden gems.
1. Rüstem Paşa Mosque – Hidden Gem, Tile Heaven
Location: Hasırcılar Cd. No:62, Tahtakale, Fatih
Why go: Nearly every surface is covered in vibrant İznik tiles—from deep blues to warm reds, all in jaw-dropping condition.
Pro tip: It’s above street level near the Spice Bazaar—look for a stairway tucked between shops.
2. Sokollu Mehmed Paşa Mosque – Tiny, Quiet, Impeccable
Location: Şehit Mehmet Paşa Yokuşu, Kadırga, Fatih
Why go: Designed by Mimar Sinan, this compact mosque contains some of the finest İznik tiles in Istanbul—including rare Kaaba tiles.
Vibe: Peaceful and overlooked, with jewel-box-level architectural detail.
3. Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Üsküdar) – Tiles + Sea Views
Location: Paşalimanı Cd. No:14, Üsküdar
Why go: Flooded with natural light, this mosque features elegant tiles in a calm, open space.
Bonus: Also a Sinan creation—built for Suleiman the Magnificent’s daughter. Just steps from the ferry docks.
4. Hekimoğlu Ali Paşa Mosque – Local Favorite, Under the Radar
Location: Haseki Sultan Mah., Fatih
Why go: A tile-lover’s dream with walls of brilliant İznik ceramics in pristine condition.
Tip: Visit midday to catch the light through stained glass. It’s magical.
Honorable Mentions (Non-Mosques):
- Topkapı Palace Harem – Sultanahmet
Dozens of tiled rooms with intricate patterns, especially in the Queen Mother’s quarters.
- Tiled Pavilion (Çinili Köşk) – Inside Istanbul Archaeology Museums A quiet spot with Seljuk and early Ottoman tiles, and a great intro to the evolution of İznik design.
