Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii)

Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii)

As part of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque Istanbul restoration, Iznik Mavi Cini was responsible for reproducing the tiles used on the mosque’s minarets. In this work carried out in 2019, the architectural integrity of the structure and its original tile language were taken as the primary reference. Oval rectangular tiles in turquoise tones were produced and handled in direct visual and formal harmony with the existing structure, ensuring continuity with the mosque’s established decorative character.

Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque Restoration, Istanbul (Sultanahmet Camii)

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I, is also known internationally as the “Blue Mosque” due to the extensive use of Iznik tiles and blue-toned painted decorations within its interior spaces. The building features more than 20,000 Iznik tiles applied in various patterns and color schemes, forming a cohesive decorative environment that defines its visual identity.

Within the scope of the 2019 restoration, Iznik Mavi Cini produced 200 tiles in an oval rectangular form and turquoise color for use on the mosque’s minarets. These tiles were manufactured in accordance with the original examples, with particular attention given to maintaining visual consistency with the existing architectural surfaces. Throughout the production process, alignment with the mosque’s architectural proportions and overall visual coherence was treated as a fundamental criterion.

This restoration work focused not only on completing missing or worn surfaces but also on preserving the distinctive tile character of the Sultan Ahmet Mosque. All applications were carried out with a measured approach that respected the historical and artistic values of the structure.

“Any intervention carried out on such emblematic structures must be addressed in full harmony with the building’s existing identity.”

“Iznik Mavi Cini, Senior Restoration Workshop Manager”

Why is the Sultan Ahmet Mosque known as the “Blue Mosque”?
The mosque is referred to by this name because of the extensive use of Iznik tiles and blue-toned painted decorations in its interior. These visual elements contribute to its international recognition.

What was Iznik Mavi Cini’s role in this restoration project?
Iznik Mavi Cini was responsible for producing the tiles used on the mosque’s minarets. The work was carried out with careful consideration of compatibility with the existing structure.

What type of tiles were used in the restoration?
The project involved oval rectangular tiles in a turquoise color. These tiles were produced in accordance with the original production approach.

How did the project aim to preserve the mosque’s original character?
All applications were conducted by prioritizing harmony with the mosque’s existing architectural and decorative integrity. The goal was to ensure continuity with its established historical identity.