Bosphorus Bridge at night with vibrant lighting spanning over the water and Camlica Mosque illuminated in the background in Istanbul, Turkey

Çamlıca Mosque

Complete Guide to Visiting Çamlıca Mosque, Istanbul: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: History and Cultural Significance of Çamlıca Mosque

Standing atop Büyük Çamlıca Hill—the highest point in Istanbul—Çamlıca Mosque is a striking testament to Turkey’s Islamic heritage and architectural ambition. Inaugurated in 2019 after six years of construction, it merges classical Ottoman design with state-of-the-art technologies. The vision of female architects Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, Çamlıca Mosque incorporates deep symbolism: six towering minarets represent the six articles of Islamic faith, while its sweeping dome honors Istanbul’s ethnic diversity (Expat Guide Turkey; Wikipedia).

As the largest mosque in Turkey, it can host up to 63,000 worshippers and features expansive prayer halls, open courtyards, a Museum of Islamic Civilizations, art galleries, and a modern library. Its hilltop location offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, making it both a spiritual sanctuary and a cultural landmark (Daily Sabah; World History Edu).

This guide provides essential visitor tips, including Çamlıca Mosque visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel advice, as well as insight into the mosque’s architectural symbolism and ongoing role in faith, education, and intercultural dialogue. Whether you are a worshipper, history enthusiast, or traveler, this guide prepares you to explore one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks (The Other Tour; Chasing the Donkey).

Origins and Conception of Çamlıca Mosque
Construction Timeline and Process
Architectural Symbolism and Features
Capacity and Facilities
Technological Innovations and Accessibility
Social, Political, and Cultural Context
Artistic and Decorative Elements
Visitor Information: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Transport
Travel Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media Recommendations
Legacy and Ongoing Role
Conclusion

Origins and Conception

The idea for Çamlıca Mosque took root in the early 2000s as Istanbul sought a new architectural symbol reflecting its Islamic heritage and growing population. Officially announced in 2012, the project’s design—chosen via a national competition—was awarded to Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, who prioritized accessibility and inclusivity, especially for women (Expat Guide Turkey; Contested Istanbul). Its location on Çamlıca Hill ensures panoramic city views and a commanding presence in Istanbul’s skyline.

Construction Timeline

Groundbreaking occurred in spring 2013, with the mosque officially completed and opened on March 7, 2019. The project cost around $110 million USD and was overseen by Turkish officials at every stage (Expat Guide Turkey; Daily Sabah; Contested Istanbul).

Architectural Symbolism and Features

Çamlıca Mosque draws inspiration from grand Ottoman mosques, featuring six minarets. Four minarets stand 107.1 meters tall, commemorating the 1071 Battle of Manzikert; two others are 90 meters tall. The main dome rises to 72 meters with a 34-meter diameter, representing Istanbul’s 72 ethnic groups and its city code (34). The world’s largest mosque finial, at 7.77 meters and weighing 4.5 tons, crowns the dome using nanotechnology (Daily Sabah; World History Edu; The Other Tour).

Capacity and Facilities

With a maximum capacity of 63,000 worshippers and emergency accommodation for up to 100,000, Çamlıca Mosque is designed for resilience, including earthquake preparedness (4Traveler). Facilities include a 3,500 m² art gallery, 3,000 m² library, a 1,071-seat conference hall, eight art workshops, indoor parking for 3,500 vehicles, and the Museum of Islamic Civilizations (Daily Sabah).

Technological Innovations and Accessibility

Advanced sound, lighting, heating, and security systems ensure comfort and safety. The mosque is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and facilities for people with disabilities (Daily Sabah; Expat Guide Turkey). The main gates are among the world’s largest for any mosque.

The mosque’s construction was controversial due to its location on protected green space, with debates about public land use and its symbolic role as a legacy project. Nevertheless, Çamlıca Mosque has become a major tourist and cultural attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually and transforming Istanbul’s skyline (Contested Istanbul).

Artistic and Decorative Elements

The interior features a blend of tradition and innovation: intricate carvings on columns and walls, modern mosaic paintings, and a courtyard fountain reminiscent of Ottoman ablution facilities (Expat Guide Turkey).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Getting There

Visiting Hours: The mosque is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended hours during Ramadan and religious holidays.
Admission: Entry is free; donations are welcome.
Guided Tours: Available on request, with multilingual guides.
How to Get There:
- By Metro: M5 metro to Kısıklı station, then a 20-minute uphill walk or short taxi ride.
- By Bus: Several lines serve Büyük Çamlıca Camii.
- By Car: Ample parking on-site.
- From Sultanahmet: Tram to Sirkeci, Marmaray to Üsküdar, M5 metro to Kısıklı (thebettervacation.com; istanbul.tips).

The mosque is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Travel Tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal light.
Dress modestly: women should cover arms, legs, and hair (scarves provided); men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
Remove shoes before entering prayer halls.
Photography is permitted, but avoid flash and photographing worshippers during prayers.
The mosque is closed to tourists during prayer times (posted daily), and until 2:30 PM on Fridays (wander-lush.org).
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Çamlıca Tower or gardens for a half-day outing.
April’s tulip season offers vibrant displays.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Modern and accessible.
Café: Snacks and refreshments on-site.
Library: 50,000 books, open Monday to Saturday.
Museum of Islamic Civilizations: 10,000 m², with 800+ artifacts in 15 thematic sections (thebettervacation.com).
Art Gallery & Conference Hall: Regular cultural events.
Courtyard: Scenic relaxation area.
Souvenir Shops: Islamic art, books, and crafts available.

Nearby Attractions

Çamlıca Mosque is close to Çamlıca Hill’s parks, offering panoramic city views, and the historic Üsküdar district. The Maiden’s Tower and Beylerbeyi Palace are also accessible for a broader cultural experience.

FAQ

Q: What are the Çamlıca Mosque visiting hours?
A: Open daily, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended hours during Ramadan.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free for all visitors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, on request; booking ahead is recommended.

Q: Is the mosque accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is allowed, without flash, and not during prayers.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Take the M5 metro to Kısıklı or city buses to Büyük Çamlıca Camii.

Visuals and Media

For planning, consult the official Çamlıca Mosque website for photo galleries and virtual tours. Images with descriptive alt text like “Çamlıca Mosque panoramic view” and maps showing its location enhance accessibility and trip planning.

Legacy and Ongoing Role

Since its opening, Çamlıca Mosque has hosted major religious events and millions of visitors, serving as both a place of worship and a center for cultural and educational activities. The Museum of Islamic Civilizations and regular exhibitions foster intercultural dialogue, solidifying the mosque’s role as a modern “külliye”—a complex serving religious, educational, and social functions (Daily Sabah; Contested Istanbul).

Conclusion

Çamlıca Mosque stands as a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, symbolizing Istanbul’s enduring Islamic heritage and dynamic present. With its inclusive design, advanced facilities, and cultural offerings, it is much more than a mosque—it is a beacon of faith, art, and community. Respect mosque etiquette, time your visit to avoid prayers, and make the most of guided tours for a richer experience. For up-to-date information and further exploration of Istanbul’s cultural treasures, download the Audiala app and follow our updates. Çamlıca Mosque is an essential highlight for any Istanbul itinerary (TurkiyeWorld; The Brain Chamber).