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The Yeni Valide Mosque (Yeni Valide Camii) is one of three Ottoman mosques on Üsküdar Square in Istanbul, Turkey.
The mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed III between 1708 and 1710 in honor of Gülnuş Sultan (1642-1715). She was the mother of Sultans Ahmed III and Mustafa II as well as the consort of Mehmed IV.
Courtyard
The entrance and courtyard of the mosque have some very intricate stone work. I especially like the ablutions fountain (şadırvan).
Prayer Hall
I enjoyed spending time in this mosque as it was easily one of the most peaceful and quiet places I could find in such a bustling city. Outside, people hurry by trying to get to work or the markets while traffic zooms past. Once inside, I could hear only the ticking of the clock. It was a great place for me to sit and reflect. It also has a gorgeous prayer hall, with calligraphy by Hezarfen Mehmet Efendi.
Tomb of Gülnuş Sultan
Gülnuş Sultan is buried in an open-air tomb next to the mosque. The tomb features intricate metal latticework.
Soup Kitchen
The mosque’s soup kitchen (imaret) is located just off Üsküdar Square. The Yeni Valide Mosque complex also included a timing room, primary school, and bazaar.
