Süleymaniye Mosque
High above the Golden Horn, the Süleymaniye Mosque stands as an impressive example of Ottoman architecture. Designed by the famous architect Sinan in the 1550s, the mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Its grand domes and elegant minarets can be seen from many parts of Istanbul, making it one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.
The Heart of a Historic Complex
The mosque was not built alone. It served as the centerpiece of a large religious complex, known as a külliye. This complex was more than just a place of worship. It included madrasas, where students learned about religion and science, a public kitchen that served food to the poor, and even a hospital that cared for the sick. All these buildings together made the site an important community center in the city.
Mausoleums of Royalty
To the east of the mosque, a small cemetery holds the mausoleums of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and his wife, Hurrem Sultan, also known as Roxelana. Their ornate tombs are a place of quiet reflection and reveal the deep connections between the mosque, the royal family, and Istanbul’s history.
Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%BCleymaniye_Mosque