My favourite Istanbul mosques – in photographs
I’m a Leo so I usually go large on birthdays with celebrations lasting at least a week and sometimes as long as a month. In the past I’ve enjoyed dinner with all my friends at a nice restaurant, held a party at home or had a romantic dinner with my lovely husband in a beachside destination somewhere in Turkey or Europe. Each birthday I hope the following year brings me health and happiness, more book sales of course, and like a beauty contest entrant, desire world peace.
A few years ago, when the Coronavirus pandemic was ramping up I marked my birthday by sharing a selection of my favourite images from Istanbul mosques. I’m not an expert photographer. I’m a writer first and foremost but one thing writing has taught me is the importance of paying attention to the details, something I think translates well in these images.
And of course I have to finish with my favourite shot, taken by my Dad when he came to Istanbul in 2007. I think it’s pretty good given he had glaucoma in both eyes and very limited vision when he took it, don’t you?
I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into my take on what’s to like about Istanbul. Read more about some of these mosques and how to visit them and other lesser known sights in my new in 2023 alternative guide Istanbul 50 Unsung Places.
Planning to come to Istanbul and Turkey and want to know how to make the most of your trip? Read up on local life and culture in one of my books, use my audio walking tour of Kadikoy, stay in a fabulous historical hotel in the old city, or prebook a tour. Part of the money I earn in commissions goes towards the cost of providing information about Istanbul and Turkey to readers for free. Please help me continue to help you.
Happy belated birthday!
May you have many happy returns of the day and may your wishes come true…
ÜLGEN
Thank you. I had a lovely day.
Happy birthday dear Lisa. Many happy returns. Love and peace in the world.
Thank you Nadine. Let’s hope we get what we wish for.
Love the photos, Have a great day Lisa.
Thank you Rosie. I’ll do my best to have a great day – it will probably involve food!
Thank you. Great insight! Happy birthday Lisa 🎂🎉💖
Thank you for the kind words and wishes.
I wish you a very healthy and happy birthday. It is really fascinating how you have emerged yourself analyzing Turkish culture and Moslem culture. Your studies reflect your pleasant view of our culture and I am really grateful for your manner.
Let God give you a healthy and prosperious life.
Thank you Ebru, I really appreciate the sentiments you convey in your message to me.
Happy birthday, darl. Wish I was able to be in da’bul to celebrate your day. Finger’s crossed we will do it soon
Thank you Jane. I’m thinking of treating today as a kind of leap birthday, so I can catch up on the celebrations as and when I chose. It will be often, trust me. Of course when you finally get here we’ll have to raise a glass to me, naturally!
Beautiful photos! Happy birthday!
Thank you very much. I hope you get to see all the mosques one day if you haven’t already.