Eyüp Sultan Mosque

The Eyüp Sultan Mosque is the most important pilgrimage site in Turkey and one of the most important in the Muslim world outside Mecca and Medina. It's built over the supposed tomb of Eyüp Ensari, the standard-bearer of the Prophet Muhammad, who is said to have died during the Arab siege of Constantinople in 670 CE (the second siege; the successful one came 780 years later under Mehmed II).

The mosque sits outside the Theodosian Walls, on the slopes above the Golden Horn — the city's geography respects the sanctity of the area, which was preserved as a cemetery even during the Christian Byzantine period. The Ottoman sultans came here to be girded with the Sword of Osman at the start of their reign. The practice continues in a modified form: incoming Turkish presidents visit, and the ceremony draws big crowds.

Inside, the tomb chamber is small and intensely decorated with calligraphic panels and İznik tiles — among the finest examples in Istanbul. The türbe (tomb) of Eyüp is always surrounded by pilgrims and visitors. The surrounding cemetery on the hillside is the largest and most beautiful in Istanbul, with views back toward the city and the Bosphorus.

Modest dress required. Free entry. Fridays are very crowded with pilgrims; come Saturday or Sunday morning for a quieter visit.