Camlica Mosque

Turkey's Largest Mosque

Rising from Buyuk Camlica Hill in Istanbul's Uskudar district, Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Turkey and a commanding presence on the Asian-side skyline. Built between 2013 and 2019 and opened in March 2019, it can accommodate as many as 63,000 worshippers at once, a scale that places it among the most significant religious buildings of modern Turkey.

The project was conceived as a national landmark, and its completion drew on the work of thousands of artisans and craftspeople over six years. From its hilltop setting it is visible across much of the city, and it has quickly become both a place of worship and a cultural destination for residents and visitors alike.

Architecture and Symbolism

The design weaves together Ottoman, Seljuk and contemporary influences into a single coherent statement. Six minarets surround the building, a number that echoes the six articles of faith in Islam, while the main dome climbs to roughly 72 meters as a nod to the many communities that have called Istanbul home. Inside, the eye is drawn to detailed tilework, sweeping chandeliers and panels of Quranic calligraphy, with energy-efficient systems built discreetly into the modern structure.

The mosque is more than a prayer hall. The wider complex houses a museum, an art gallery and a library, and it regularly hosts community gatherings and events. The surrounding Camlica Hills offer some of the finest panoramas in the city, taking in the Bosphorus and the rooftops stretching toward the historic peninsula.

Planning Your Visit

Entry is free and the mosque welcomes visitors throughout the day, though tourist access pauses during prayer times, so it is worth checking the schedule before you arrive. As at any active mosque, modest dress is expected; headscarves are available for women who need them, and shoes are removed before entering.

Getting there is straightforward by taxi, private car or public transport, and the site is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities. Practical amenities include underground parking and restrooms, and guided tours are available for those who want more context on the building's history and design. Pairing your visit with time at the adjoining viewpoint makes for an easy and memorable half-day on the Asian side.